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BACKPACK ONLINE 2007-08 ARCHIVE |
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| 6/17/08 |
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Backpack Online #29 - Superintendent's Column, Mississippi Elementary School plants trees, plans future garden and Riverview Specialty School celebrates Earth Month in April. |
School Board News:
1. Action of the School Board May 27 meeting PDF now available
Question of the Week:
2. Why are students not allowed to bring any paper into a school during the last few days of school?
General News and Events:
3. Davis Graff charity golf event June 23
4. Coon Rapids High School alumni golf scramble June 28; open to the public
5. First Student name replaces Laidlaw on district buses
6. Kristin Baden named FOX 9 Top Teacher
7. Connie Sullivan named HOSA Chapter Advisor of the Year
8. Kathy Suski and Lori Brumbaugh receive national FCCLA/HERO Master Advisor Award
9. Anoka-Hennepin School District news: get it your way!
10. Cell phone and text messaging safety tips
Elementary School News and Events:
11. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
12. Mark your calendars now for "Four is Fun!" kindergarten event in October
13. Elementary schools receive the gold-level 2008 Wellness by Design School Award
14. Mississippi Elementary School plants trees, plans future garden
High School News and Events:
15. Dayton Police Department free teen driving program June 19
College and Career Planning Events:
16. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Superintendent's Column:
17. Safeguarding history in transition
Student Success:
18. Middle school students selected for publication in Minnesota Reading Association "Writers Are Readers" Young Author Celebration
Community Education News and Events:
19. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
Reaching Out:
20. Andover Elementary School donates food and money to Anoka County families
21. Riverview Specialty School celebrates Earth Month in April
School Board News:
1. Action of the School Board May 27 meeting PDF now available
The Communications and Public Relations Department announced the launch of the Action of the School Board (ASB) e-newsletter earlier this year. ASB provides brief summaries of Anoka-Hennepin School Board meetings for staff and the general public in PDF format. A PDF of the May 27 meeting is available to download at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/actionsb.
Selected summaries are also available to download as podcast episodes in the Anoka-Hennepin Podcast Network (AHPN) section online: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast. Additional podcasts of April and May meetings will be added this month.
Complete minutes of School Board meetings are published on the district's Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/schoolboard and in the school district's legal newspapers:
• Anoka County Union
• Blaine Life
• Coon Rapids Herald
• Champlin Dayton Press
• Brooklyn Park Sun-Post
• Brooklyn Center Sun-Post
Question of the Week:
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
Backpack Online readers can view previous questions and responses and levy-related questions in the Question of the Week archive. Go to: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/question and select a topic.
(2) Question: Why are students not allowed to bring any paper into a school during the last few days of school? This does not seem like a good productive use of time. It would seem to me if we are talking about expanding the school year to encompass more days, having the last three days of the school year as productive days would help solve the problem.
Response: Students are productive participating in academics and activities during the last few days of school, whether it's demonstrating knowledge learned throughout the year in final exams or engaging in the social aspect of school.
There are several reasons students are not allowed to bring paper to school:
• Many schools reserve the final days of the year for testing and school field trips, so no paper is needed.
• Schools already tend to be "knee-deep" in paper in the halls as students clean out lockers and notebooks. Some schools ask students not to bring paper in the last few days to reduce this.
• Some schools do not allow students to bring in anything (like backpacks, that could conceal pranking items like stink bombs or weapons) the last few days, as the risk for contraband is high. Because of this, many schools have students clean out lockers the last week of school to prevent storage of items that could be considered disruptive.
• In the past, bus companies have requested students not bring paper to school the last few days because students tend to leave it in the buses (causing extra clean up) or throw it out the windows.
• Some schools do allow students to bring in notebooks the day before the school's field trip to tie up loose ends.
Many schools have an all-school field trip the last day of school. The rationale is that it is a celebration of students' hard work throughout the year. The agenda for the day is surrounding the social aspect of middle school (i.e., giving all our students a chance to interact with their peers by grade level). Also, this opportunity gives students a chance to meet some new students as they move to the next grade level.
Currently, there are no changes planned for the length of the school year. The minimum number of days required for schooling in Minnesota is set by the state Legislature. The Minnesota Association of School Administrators has proposed in the past to extend the school year by five or six weeks, but so far that is just a proposal.
General News and Events:
3. Davis Graff charity golf event June 23
Calling all golfers! Mark your calendars and get your golf clubs ready! The Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program invites you to participate in the seventh annual Davis Graff Memorial Charity Golf Event on Monday, June 23 at the Links at Northfork in Ramsey. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. with a scramble-shotgun start at 12:30 p.m.
Davis Graff was born on Dec. 18, 2001 and died at the age of five months of congenital heart and lung complications. His charismatic spirit lives on through this 501 (c) (3) non-profit charity event.
Proceeds from the event will be distributed to the Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education Program to expand Assistive Technology libraries at sites throughout the district to help young children with special needs. The tournament has raised more than $10,000 for the district's ECSE program in the past two years.
The ECSE program encourages district staff members to create a foursome that will represent Anoka-Hennepin at the event. It's a great way to get the summer off to a "swinging" start, said Jane Roundtree, ECSE program supervisor.
For more information, or to register, visit: http://www.davisgraffmtf.org or contact Jane Roundtree at 763-506-1475.
4. Coon Rapids High School alumni golf scramble June 28; open to the public
The public is invited to participate the Coon Rapids High School class of 1988 alumni golf scramble on Saturday, June 28 at the Viking Meadows Golf Club, 1788 Viking Blvd NE in East Bethel.
A portion of the proceeds from this event will go toward Coon Rapids High School Community Scholarships, which benefit Coon Rapids High School students. The event is limited to the first 144 registrants. Teams should be in groups of four. The cost is $45 per golfer.
Visit: http://www.coonrapidsclassof1988.com for registration information.
5. First Student name replaces Laidlaw on district buses
After this school year, parents and community residents might notice that they no longer see the name "Laidlaw" on the yellow buses traveling around the community. Starting June 11, the Laidlaw name will disappear and be replaced with "First Student." The buses, drivers and management will all remain the same - only the name will change.
FirstGroup, parent company of First Student, acquired Laidlaw International in October 2007. Laidlaw operated regular route and special education buses in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
6. Kristin Baden named FOX 9 Top Teacher
Kristin Baden, Early Childhood Special Education - birth to age three teacher for Anoka-Hennepin, was one of nine teachers named Top Teacher* by FOX 9 TV in April. The award recognizes educators who have positively impacted the lives of students, the teaching profession and the community. Award recipients are recognized for their extraordinary teaching "above and beyond both inside and outside of the classroom."
Baden's nomination stated, "She is a leader in education who is able to create an amazing vision that other people want to follow. Her vision is to improve collaboration among parents and professional so that our children can receive the finest education possible. If a child is lucky enough to have a teacher like Kristin Baden, who has dedicated her life to providing what is best for children with special needs, then that child is more likely to reach their full potential. Her dedication inspires educators, parents and students alike that our children are not only capable of reaching their full potential but also becoming positive contributions to our community."
Baden was selected by a panel of community leaders, including teachers and administrators, from more than 1,000 nominees. Baden has been teaching for 16 years. She currently works with children with disabilities ages birth to 3 years old through Anoka-Hennepin's Early Childhood Special Education Program.
The award presentation was broadcast in April. Click on the following link to view the video of Baden receiving her award: http://media.myfoxtwincities.com/special/top_teacher/2008/index.htm.
*This award is sponsored and organized by FOX 9 TV. It should not be confused with Anoka-Hennepin's TOP Award, which annually recognizes 20 district teachers for excellence in teaching.
7. Connie Sullivan named HOSA Chapter Advisor of the Year
Connie Sullivan, health science instructor at Blaine High School, was recently named as the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Chapter Advisor of the Year at the Minnesota HOSA Leadership Conference in Minnetonka.
Sullivan teaches Medical Careers classes and coordinates the HOSA internship program. She also serves as HOSA advisor.
"Connie has been a strong advocate for HOSA both at the state and national level for many years," said Ginny Karbowski, director of Career and Technical Education for the district. "She has had many HOSA state officers and also has had a strong passion for the goals and objectives of HOSA. We are very proud of Connie and her achievements."
8. Kathy Suski and Lori Brumbaugh receive national FCCLA/HERO Master Advisor Award
Champlin Park High School Family and Consumer Science (FACS) teachers Kathy Suski and Lori Brumbaugh were the recent recipients of the national Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) student organization FCCLA/HERO Master Advisor Award.
Suski also serves as the FACS and Health internship program coordinator at Champlin Park. Brumbaugh teaches Child Care Occupations and Child Development at Champlin Park.
This award recognizes advisors who have been successful in:
• Advising an affiliated chapter for a minimum of three years.
• Promoting the FCCLA/HERO organization.
• Operating an integrated chapter with a balanced program of work.
• Facilitating youth-centered activities.
• Keeping abreast of new happenings within the organization.
"The FCCLA/ HERO Master Advisory Award is a very prestigious award for FCCLA and HERO advisors in the United States," said Ginny Karbowski, director of Career and Technical Education for the district. "It takes a lot of effort, dedication and commitment to complete the requirements to achieve this award. We are all very proud of their great work!"
9. Anoka-Hennepin School District news: get it your way!
Stay up to date with the latest news from the Anoka-Hennepin School District, now available in multiple formats for your convenience:
A-H News current year archive
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahnews
Action of the School Board PDF archive
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/actionsb
Anoka-Hennepin Podcast Network
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast
Backpack Online e-newsletter current year archives
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/bpcurrent
Question of the Week archives
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/question
Rumor Alert! archives
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/rumouralert
Schools In Focus cable news program - stream episodes online
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/sifstream
Focus newsletter archives
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter, click on the "Focus on Anoka-Hennepin Newsletter" folder
Vist the A-H News section for links to additional publications: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahnews.
10. Cell phone and text messaging safety tips
Cell phones are becoming more common among children, and the danger is not as obvious as other forms of technology. However, children should remember that information they send out on a cell phone is similar to instant messaging or e-mail on a computer - it can be a direct link to danger.
• Children should be reminded to give out their number only to people they know well and can trust. They shouldn't reply to text messages from people they don't know.
• They should be cautious about what they write. Text messages could be taken the wrong way, since the recipient can't see the sender's face or hear his or her voice.
• Children should never give out someone else's phone number or take a photo of another person without permission. Once an image is on a phone and sent to someone else, who knows where it might end up.
Online safety tips
Keeping children safe while they are online, whether surfing the Internet, instant messaging their friends or updating their web page, is a growing concern for parents. Here are some online safety tips.
• Keep the computer in a common area of the house, like the living room or kitchen, where you can see what sites your children are visiting.
• Talk to your children about how to stay safe online. Go online with them and find out their favorite Internet sites.
• Remind your child that all information on the Internet is public information, and they should never give out any personal information, including their real name, telephone or cell phone number, mailing address or passwords.
• Tell children they should only communicate with people they know and recognize.
• Consider using parental control systems offered by Internet service providers.
What if something seems wrong?
Pedophiles often seek victims online. The FBI suggests the following tips to help determine if your child might be engaged in, or the victim of, risky online behavior.
If he or she:
• Receives phone calls from people or numbers you don't recognize.
• Receives gifts or mail from someone you don't know.
• Hides the computer monitor or minimizes the window when you enter the room.
• Seems withdrawn from family members.
• Uses an online account that belongs to someone else.
Should any of the following situations arise in your household, via the Internet or text messaging, you should contact your local or state law enforcement agency, the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
• Your child or anyone in the house has received child pornography.
• Your child has been sexually solicited by someone who knows your child is under 18.
• Your child has received sexually explicit images from someone who knows your child is under 18.
Additional online safety resources:
http://www.ncpc.org (click on parents internet safety)
http://www.safekids.org
http://www.kidshealth.org
Elementary School News and Events:
11. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
12. Mark your calendars now for "Four is Fun!" kindergarten event in October
Attention parents or guardians of four year olds! Mark your calendars now for the fall 2008 "Four is Fun!" event. This free event is designed for children who will attend kindergarten in the fall of 2008 and their parents or guardians.
"Four is Fun!" provides ideas and activities for families to do with their future kindergartners. Families can also use this opportunity to help their child practice skills used in kindergarten like cutting, math, writing, reading, listening and movement.
Choose any of the following sessions to attend:
* Tuesday, Oct. 14 at Madison Elementary School, 650 Territorial Road N.E. in Blaine, at 10:30 a.m. or 6 p.m.
* Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Mississippi Elementary School, 10620 Direct River Dr. N.W. in Coon Rapids, at 6 p.m.
* Wednesday, Oct. 22 at Wilson Elementary School, 1025 Sunny Lane in Anoka, at 6 p.m.
* Thursday, Oct. 23 at Park View Early Childhood Center, 6100 109th Ave. N. in Champlin, at 6 p.m.
No registration is required for this event. Childcare is not available for siblings, adults stay with their children for the entire event.
13. Elementary schools receive the gold-level 2008 Wellness by Design School Award
The following Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools were recently awarded the gold-level Wellness by Design School Award for 2008 by the Hennepin County Human Services and Public Health departments:
• Dayton Elementary School
• Monroe Elementary School
• Oxbow Creek Elementary School
• Park View Early Childhood Center
The award is given to a select group of schools that are honored for promoting safe and healthy lifestyles among staff and students.
Sponsored by Hennepin County, the Wellness by Design Award encourages the use of structured, innovative and effective approaches to influence healthy behaviors in schools and worksites. Wellness By Design Award winners serve as models for others interested in improving the quality of life in Hennepin County. There are three categories of awards: bronze, silver and gold. Read on for information on what schools did throughout the school year to promote wellness:
Dayton Elementary School
A variety of methods were used to inform staff, students, and parents about healthy school opportunities throughout the school year. Activities included creating a school display board that identified healthy foods and distributing bottled water labeled with creative slogans promoting the benefi ts of staying hydrated. A "Spring Fever" promotion was implemented so students could track their healthy behaviors. Well-earned prizes were given away at the end of the campaign. Students also ran two minutes at the beginning of each physical education class.
Monroe Elementary School
Three successful health campaigns were implemented:
• Milk Mustache: This was a promotion aimed at getting students to drink more milk.
• Walk to Iraq: Students and staff logged lots of miles walking the equivalent of to and from Iraq.
• Biggest Loser: This weight-loss contest was designed and conducted specifically for school staff.
Signs were developed to help students identify the different fruits and vegetables served in the lunch line. Jump rope and sit-up contests were also implemented in all of the grades for students to test their skills.
Oxbow Creek Elementary School
Oxbow Creek conducted a running club after school through community education to promote physical activity. A grant from the Minnesota Dairy Council to promote strong bones led to "Game On: The Ultimate Wellness Challenge." A $10,000 grant from General Mills helped school staff promote student development in the area of nutrition and purchase additional playground equipment. Staff members were also encouraged to become certified in Automated External
Difibrillator and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, resulting in 31 staff becoming certified.
Park View Early Childhood Center
Park View implemented the "Smart Choice Raceway" campaign where students earned points and prizes for healthy eating. Staff also joined in a "Biggest Loser" weight-loss competition and helped promote the district policy banning pop in school. Staff and students now take walks together during the school day.
This year marks the first year that Monroe Elementary School won the award. Dayton Elementary School won the award in 2007. Jackson Middle School, Oxbow Creek Elementary School and Park View Early Childhood Center won the award in 2006 and 2007.
14. Mississippi Elementary School plants trees, plans future garden
Mississippi Elementary School students and Tree Trust workers partnered to plant trees and bushes in the school's nature center on May 22.
Each class planted a tree and a bush, with students dividing up the roles of planters, waterers and mulchers. The students took on their tasks with great enthusiasm, slinging dirt and struggling with buckets of water. After the planting was finished, all 440 students took a walk, winding through the nature center on the site where a future trail will be.
Connexus Energy also partnered with the school and sponsored a poster contest for the students. They provided awards for the contest winners, including a digital camera for the grand prize winner.
After the planting, Principal Mark Hansen read a portion of the Dr. Seuss book "The Lorax" to the students. "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing's going to get better. It's not," he told them. Students at Mississippi showed they cared that day and will continue throughout the summer. They have signed up for watering duty throughout the summer to help the new trees and shrubs grow.
View a photo of this event online at:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=20556.
High School News and Events:
15. Dayton Police Department free teen driving program June 19
The following event is endorsed by the Anoka-Hennepin Driver's Education Program. Anoka-Hennepin parents and students are encouraged to attend this event.
Did you know: In Minnesota from 1999 to 2003, 442 persons were killed and more than 45,000 were injured in crashes involving drivers ages 16 to 18. During that same time period, 305 teenagers were killed in traffic crashes - 74 percent weren't wearing seat belts.
Attention parents and students! The Dayton Police Department will sponsor a special free program on teen driving on Thursday, June 19 at 7 p.m. at Dayton City Hall, 12260 S. Diamond Lake Road in Dayton. The program is geared toward teen drivers and their parents or guardians. The department will provide information on:
• New driving laws
• Graduated licensing
• Insurance and the consequences of poor choices
• Testimony on the consequences of drinking and driving and not wearing a seatbelt
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The event is limited to 60 participants and will also feature a question and answer session. Call 763-427-2017 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to reserve your spot.
College and Career Planning Events:
16. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• Minnesota Private College Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: http://www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email: colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
Student Success:
17. Middle school students selected for publication in Minnesota Reading Association "Writers Are Readers" Young Author Celebration
Several pieces of Northdale and Oak View middle schools student work were selected to be entered into the "Writers are Readers" Young Author Celebration 2008 publication on behalf of the Minnesota Reading Association.
In this event, students have the opportunity to showcase their creativity and enthusiasm for writing to entertain or inform other readers. Entries were received from students across the state. Those selected from the district include:
Northdale Middle School
Caroline Henning
Julie Kretsu
Allison Manson
Danny Polachek
Mandee Tjosvold
DiJanae Underwood
Sarah West
Oak View Middle School
Blake LaBathe
Madi Luke
Jack Lutz
Jake Multer
Kate Roth
Students received a certificate and were honored at the Minnesota Reading Association's "Celebrate Literacy" Reception at the Courtyards of Andover on May 15. Some of the winning entries are available to view on the MRA Web site at: http://www.mnreading.org/pages/newsevents/writers-readers.php/.
Community Education News and Events:
18. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
The Community Education School Readiness Preschool Program is gearing up for new classes to start this summer. Summer Preschool prepares children for the big step into kindergarten this fall. Fun summer activities will focus on readiness skills to help children enter kindergarten with more ease and confidence.
Classes will meet at four sites:
• Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center Preschool, 2740 Wingfield Ave. N. in Anoka.
• Blaine Preschool, inside the Blaine United Methodist Church, 621 115th Ave. N.E., in Blaine.
• Champlin Family Place, inside the Champlin Plaza Mall, 12443 Champlin Dr. in Champlin.
• Coon Rapids Foley, inside the Head Start Building, 9574 Foley Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
The six-week session starts June 17 and ends July 24. Days and times are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. A 12:30 to 3 p.m. class is available at the Anoka site only.
Children who have not had any preschool experience will receive registration priority. Children who have been to preschool are welcome as space allows.
Parents are responsible for transportation. A sliding fee scale based on family size and income is available to help pay tuition. Registration for the classes will be accepted by phone. For more information call 763-506-2480.
Superintendent's Column:
19. Safeguarding history in transition
By Dr. Roger Giroux, superintendent
There are a great many changes facing all of us today. Journalism in general and print journalism in particular is facing significant challenge from technology and economy. Newspapers serve a great purpose not the least of which is to document our lives and histories as individuals and as communities. Transition to electronic media offers a great enrichment through a wealth of information on topics, people and events provided by unlimited and, until now, untapped resources. Electronic media can also unleash a barrage of misinformation and unaccountable reporting that may well distort the public and historical record.
I've been writing this column for well over 10 years. I believe it provides a link between our schools and our very important public. It is also a means for documenting, hopefully on an informed basis, the significant social, political and economic issues affecting our public schools. In short, I view this column and the many others our papers publish not only as the news and comment of today but a profile of today to be read by the citizens of tomorrow as they try to understand their heritage. I often wonder if the transition to electronic media will serve the same purpose. I suspect it will and the result will be greater access to an even richer record.
Anoka-Hennepin schools are in a period of transition. Retirements are creating a new leadership for the district and for several of our schools. We have not experienced a great deal of turnover these past 10 years. Several positions that fell vacant and would have attracted new leadership remained unfilled and fell to budget cuts, but, generally, we have had the benefit of long-term continuity in key positions. This is equally true of our school board leadership. Mike Sullivan, for example, is completing his 20th year of service on the Board.
During the next few weeks the administration side of our school district will change and we will be working with new colleagues. Six top-level administrators will retire, as will three high school principals and five elementary school principals.
I'm in a unique position, having served 32 years in central administration. I can look back with reasonable accuracy to memory of past leadership teams and, at the same time, I'll be able to work with the new teams as they emerge.
A few nights ago we celebrated the service of staff who worked in our schools for 25 or more continuous years. Two celebrants, Frank Meuers, teacher at Jackson Middle School and Nancy Beth Lindgren, teacher at Andover Elementary School have been teaching with Anoka-Hennepin Schools for 40 years. They both provided comments and material that allowed the recall of their teaching with humor, richness and perspective. These are among the last of our staff to be hired during Superintendent Erling Johnson's years. I had the pleasure of meeting Superintendent Morris Bye and I believe we may have one staff member left in service who was hired during his time as Superintendent.
Many of our community members have vivid memories of their days attending Anoka-Hennepin schools. Yearbooks cover some of these experiences but not all. In 1976 a portion of the history of Anoka County included the history of the schools and a few years ago Shirley Christianson, retired director of media services, created a series of video interviews with several retired staff members of the district. Those interviews are a great historical resource. We have a wonderful group of retired educators, former students and parents who contributed greatly to the quality of life in our communities. We need to document their thoughts and recollections. Somewhere there are pictures, report cards, teacher daily records, lunch menus, graduation photos, staff photos and a host of other material all waiting to be discovered or discarded. We need to discover and save that material.
I worry about the loss of a community's collective memory and I have a suggestion. The Internet can be an ally or a hindrance to documented history. Let's make it an ally. I'm suggesting that we start a series of Web pages that can serve as a focal point for the collection of Anoka-Hennepin School District history. We would need to create a web-based presence that allows for the exchange of documentation, information and anecdotes. It would have to be monitored. It would have to be structured to accommodate several focal points and it would require some investment. Nevertheless, I think it would be valued and valuable.
During the next few weeks I'll try to advance the idea among our many citizens and colleagues and assess a level of interest. I'll also check with our excellent city and county historical societies to see what structures already exist. Perhaps we can help celebrate Minnesota's 150th birthday with a new historical resource and a refurbished historical perspective on schools and learning in Minnesota.
Reaching Out:
20. Andover Elementary School donates food and money to Anoka County families
Andover Elementary School fifth grade students and teachers collected 15 boxes of food and $277 during a food shelf collection at the school's annual showcase on May 1. The food and money was donated to Anoka County families in need.
21. Riverview Specialty School celebrates Earth Month in April
Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science decided to stretch their Earth Day (April 19) activities into a month-long celebration to honor, sustain and care for the planet.
Students and staff participated in the following activities:
• A shoe recycling drive, in which more than 1,000 were collected. The collected shoes are then used in athletic surfaces, oil absorbent materials for oil spill clean up kits, etc. The drive was completed in partnership with REI in Bloomington. The school also had a "Funky Shoe Day" on April 21 to encourage students to wear shoes one more time before donating them.
• Clean up day at the Coon Rapids Dam/Three Rivers Park site on April 19. A total of 60 Riverview students, families and staff picked up more than 50 garbage bags of trash. Principal Linda Williams-Tuenge said the school is considering making this an annual event.
• Douglas Woods, friend of the Earth and author of "The Old Turtle" spoke to the Riverview staff and students about his work on April 25.
• Students learned to save the trash and avoid waste by reusing, recycling and eating what you take for lunch on April 30 with a special day in the lunchroom, sponsored by "Kids for Saving Earth."
• A "Pennies for Peace" campaign, in which $1,435.24 was raised.
• Clean up day at the Coon Rapids Dam/Three Rivers Park site on April 19. A total of 60 Riverview students, families and staff picked up more than 50 garbage bags of trash. Principal Linda Williams-Tuenge said the school is considering making this an annual event.
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| 5/23/08 |
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Backpack Online #28 - Upcoming events: Public hearing on legislative session and school funding bill May 28, Coon Rapids High School annual FCCLA thrift sale May 31 and limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Public invited to hearing on recent legislative session and school funding bill at Jackson Middle School May 28
2. Retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School staff May 29
3. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
4. Coon Rapids High School annual FCCLA thrift sale May 31
5. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
6. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
7. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
8. Davis Graff charity golf event June 23
9. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
10. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
11. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
12. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Upcoming Events:
1. Public invited to hearing on recent legislative session and school funding bill at Jackson Middle School May 28
The Minnesota House K-12 Finance Division will hold a hearing on the outcome of the recent legislative session and will present information on HF 4178 (being billed in the media as "the new Minnesota miracle") on Wednesday, May 28 in the Jackson Middle School community room
from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
The bill contains provisions for funding that reorganize and recalculate funding for public schools in Minnesota. One of the key elements of the bill would be greater equity in funding between schools districts, said Linda Rodgers, Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement coordinator. "This is a long-held legislative goal for the Anoka-Hennepin School Board and the Parent Legislative Team," said Rodgers.
Rep. Mindy Greiling will chair the meeting, make the presentation, and hear comments from the public.
2. Retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School staff May 29
There will be a retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science staff members Linda Williams-Tuenge (principal) and Sue Roth (curriculum and technology integrator) on Thursday, May 29 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Riverview cafeteria.
Former Riverview students and families are invited to say goodbye to Williams-Tuenge and Roth, who started working at Riverview in 1997 and 1975, respectively. The event is geared toward former Riverview students and their families but is open to the public. Riverview is located at 1400 93rd Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
3. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
The Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts art department invites the public to attend its annual spring art show, which will run from now until May 30. The show features artwork from students in the school's gallery.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/fmms or call 763-506-5000. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
4. Coon Rapids High School annual FCCLA thrift sale May 31
The Coon Rapids High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) group invites the public to attend its annual thrift sale on Saturday, May 31 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Coon Rapids High School, door number two.
Proceeds from the sale will fund the costs of FCCLA students attending the national FCCLA event in July. The group is accepting donations for the sale. Items can be dropped off at the school on Friday, May 30 at door number two. Receipts will be provided. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
5. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
The public is invited to attend an open house in honor of Principal Patrick Murray's retirement on Monday, June 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Johnsville Parent Teacher Organizaton (PTO). Johnsville is located at 991 125th Ave N.E. in Blaine.
6. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
7. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
The public is invited to attend Northdale Middle School's golf fundraiser on Saturday, June 7 at Bunker Hills Golf Course in Coon Rapids. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward a new computer lab at Northdale.
The event is a nine-hole, best ball tournament. Registration begins at 3 p.m.; tee time is 4:30 p.m. The event will also feature a silent auction, an ice cream social, and many other fun golfing games and activities. Box lunches are included.
Email: nmsopen@gmail.com to make a financial donation or to volunteer for the event. Contact Julie Vandenbrook at 763-506-5561 to donate items for the silent auction. For more information, email: NorthdaleOpen@gmail.com or call 763-506-5400.
Click on the following link to download a registration form: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=249125&catfilter=ALL&sc_id=1208373065&cms_mode=view.
8. Davis Graff charity golf event June 23
Calling all golfers! Mark your calendars and get your golf clubs ready! The Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program invites you to participate in the seventh annual Davis Graff Memorial Charity Golf Event on Monday, June 23 at the Links at Northfork in Ramsey. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. with a scramble-shotgun start at 12:30 p.m.
Davis Graff was born on Dec. 18, 2001 and died at the age of five months due to congenital heart and lung complications. His charismatic spirit lives on through this 501 (c) (3) non-profit charity event.
Proceeds from the event will be distributed to the Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education Program to expand assistive technology libraries at sites throughout the district to help young children with special needs. The tournament has raised more than $10,000 for the district's ECSE program in the past two years.
The ECSE program encourages district staff members and the public to create a foursome that will represent Anoka-Hennepin at the event. It's a great way to get the summer off to a "swinging" start, said Jane Roundtree, ECSE program supervisor.
For more information, or to register, visit: www.davisgraffmtf.org or contact Jane Roundtree at 763-506-1475.
9. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
10. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• Minnesota Private College Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email: colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
11. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
The Community Education School Readiness Preschool Program is gearing up for new classes to start this summer. Summer Preschool prepares children for the big step into kindergarten this fall. Fun summer activities will focus on readiness skills to help children enter kindergarten with more ease and confidence.
Classes will meet at four sites:
• Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center Preschool, 2740 Wingfield Ave. N. in Anoka.
• Blaine Preschool, inside the Blaine United Methodist Church, 621 115th Ave. N.E., in Blaine.
• Champlin Family Place, inside the Champlin Plaza Mall, 12443 Champlin Dr. in Champlin.
• Coon Rapids Foley, inside the Head Start Building, 9574 Foley Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
The six-week session starts June 17 and ends July 24. Days and times are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. A 12:30 to 3 p.m. class is available at the Anoka site only.
Children who have not had any preschool experience will receive registration priority. Children who have been to preschool are welcome as space allows.
Parents are responsible for transportation. A sliding fee scale based on family size and income is available to help pay tuition. Registration for the classes will be accepted by phone. For more information call 763-506-2480.
12. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers day and evening classes for adults who want to earn a diploma by earning a GED or completing course work in the Adult Diploma program. Call 763-783-4870 for enrollment information. All classes are free!
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Volunteers are needed to assist adult students working on their English, reading, math or work skills. Call 763-783-4920 to talk with Metro North ABE's volunteer coordinator. Training is provided. Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
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Backpack Online #27 - Four schools selected to specialization project, winners of the 2008 district writing contest and Sara Zimowicz named MCSS Middle School Teacher of the Year. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Anoka-Hennepin Adapted Sports Club used book sale May 17
2. Evergreen Park students to showcase learning on May 20
3. Coon Rapids Middle School inventors fair May 17
4. Roosevelt Middle School arts and academic celebration May 19
5. Upcoming high school concert: May 19
School Board News:
6. Action of the School Board April 14 and 28 and May 12 meeting PDFs now available
General News and Events:
7. Davis Graff charity golf event June 23
8. 2008-09 school year start and dismissal times announced
9. Four schools selected to specialization project
10. Carol Kidder named FOX 9 Top Teacher
11. Sara Zimowicz named Minnesota Council for the Social Studies Middle School Teacher of the Year
Elementary School News and Events:
12. Retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School staff May 29
13. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
14. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
15. Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx teams renovate University Avenue Elementary School basketball courts
Middle School News and Events:
16. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
17. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
High School News and Events:
18. Coon Rapids High School annual FCCLA thrift sale May 31
19. Blaine High School students get an inside look at transportation technology
College and Career Planning Events:
20. ACT prep course available for high school students through June 7
21. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Student Success:
22. Winners of the 2008 Anoka-Hennepin School District writing contest
Community Education News and Events:
23. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
24. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
25. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Reaching Out:
26. Mississippi Elementary School "Kids Against Hunger" event a success
Upcoming Events:
1. Anoka-Hennepin Adapted Sports Club used book sale May 17
The public is invited to attend the Anoka-Hennepin Mustangs Adapted Sports Booster Club used book sale on Saturday, May 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 14357 Tamarack St. N.W. in Andover. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the club.
The club is also accepting book donations. Contact Karen Sherga at 763-506-7357 or Carolynn Johnson at 763-413-9801 to make arrangements or for more information.
The location is just east of Hanson Blvd. on Andover Blvd. (.7 miles). Take a right on Tamarack St. The location of event is the first house on the left.
2. Evergreen Park students to showcase learning on May 20
Parents and members of the public are invited to see Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary students show what they know during the school's first Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition. The event will be held this year in conjunction with the school's annual "Traveling Through the Minds" event.
The PYP Exhibition is an opportunity for fifth-grade students to showcase their projects, the culmination of a months-long inquiry and research process. Groups of students worked with a staff mentor to explore an idea of their own choosing. They explain how that subject relates to the core subject of inquiry for this year: "Scientific inquiry often leads to inventions and advancements that positively and negatively affect societies and the environment." Some examples of topics that students are investigating include plastic recycling, space exploration and artificial limbs.
The research projects are an integral part of the final project for the fifth-graders. Every student in the final year of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme is expected to carry out an extended collaborative inquiry project. This is the first year that Evergreen Park students have completed the final project. The school has been certified as an International Baccalaureate school for a year.
Dinner is $2 and will be served from 5 to 6 p.m. Kindergarten through fourth grade students will showcase their projects and inquiry learning in their classrooms from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and the fifth-grade exhibition will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary is located at 7020 Dupont Ave. N. in Brooklyn Center.
3. Coon Rapids Middle School inventors fair May 17
The public is invited to attend Coon Rapids Middle School's annual inventors fair on Saturday, May 17 from 10 to 11 a.m. The fair will include projects from all three grades at the school.
For more information, contact John Chasteen, Coon Rapids Middle School sixth grade teacher, at 763-506-4852 or at: John.Chasteen@anoka.k12.mn.us. Coon Rapids Middle School is located at 11600 Raven St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
4. Roosevelt Middle School arts and academic celebration May 19
The public is invited to attend Roosevelt Middle School's annual arts and academic celebration on Monday, May 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature student work from all courses throughout the building, including: student music group performances in the music café, where snacks and a meal are available for purchase while visiting or listening to the music and a dragster car display.
The dragster display is in recognition of the industrial technology race cars that Roosevelt students designed and will race in front of others on a track that will be set up in the hallway.
Roosevelt Middle School is located at 650 125th Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
5. Upcoming high school concert: May 19
Listed below are dates and times for upcoming high school orchestra, band and choir concerts. Additional school dates and times will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
Monday, May 19 at 7:30 p.m. (choir)
Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
School Board News:
6. Action of the School Board April 14, 28 and May 12 meeting PDFs now available
The Communications and Public Relations Department announced the launch of the Action of the School Board (ASB) e-newsletter earlier this year. ASB provides brief summaries of Anoka-Hennepin School Board meetings for staff and the general public in PDF format. PDFs of the April 14, 28 and May 12 meetings are available to download at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/actionsb.
Selected summaries are also available to download as podcast episodes in the Anoka-Hennepin Podcast Network (AHPN) section online: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast. Additional podcasts are planned for the April and May meetings.
Complete minutes of School Board meetings are published on the district's Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/schoolboard and in the school district's legal newspapers:
• Anoka County Union
• Blaine Life
• Coon Rapids Herald
• Champlin Dayton Press
• Brooklyn Park Sun-Post
• Brooklyn Center Sun-Post
General News and Events:
7. Davis Graff charity golf event June 23
Calling all golfers! Mark your calendars and get your golf clubs ready! The Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program invites you to participate in the seventh annual Davis Graff Memorial Charity Golf Event on Monday, June 23 at the Links at Northfork in Ramsey. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. with a scramble-shotgun start at 12:30 p.m.
Davis Graff was born on Dec. 18, 2001 and died at the age of five months due to congenital heart and lung complications. His charismatic spirit lives on through this 501 (c) (3) non-profit charity event.
Proceeds from the event will be distributed to the Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education Program to expand Assistive Technology libraries at sites throughout the district to help young children with special needs. The tournament has raised more than $10,000 for the district's ECSE program in the past two years.
The ECSE program encourages district staff members to create a foursome that will represent Anoka-Hennepin at the event. It's a great way to get the summer off to a "swinging" start, said Jane Roundtree, ECSE program supervisor.
For more information, or to register, visit: www.davisgraffmtf.org or contact Jane Roundtree at 763-506-1475.
8. 2008-09 school year start and dismissal times announced
Click on the following link to view the 2008-09 school year start and dismissal times in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=20402.
9. Four schools selected to specialization project
Four more schools in the Anoka-Hennepin School District were selected to participate in the curriculum specialization project for grades four and five beginning next year. The district decided to expand the program after an evaluation of the eight schools in the project thus far showed positive results. Schools that will be new to the program in the fall are Adams, Mississippi, Wilson and University Avenue.
Fourth and fifth grade teachers in participating schools specialize in teaching either math and science or reading, writing and social studies and they receive extensive staff development in their areas of specialization. As a result of specializing in fewer subjects, teachers have more time to prepare lessons and they teach the same lesson twice in a day. Teachers say their knowledge of their areas of specialization has increased and their teaching practice has improved. As a result, they feel their students learn more. Teachers also believe the specialization project will better prepare children for middle school.
Some parents were concerned at first that their children wouldn't have as strong a bond with their classroom teacher because they would have more teachers, but that hasn't been a problem. Students have a homeroom period with their primary teacher and end the day with that teacher. In addition they have their primary teacher for the subjects in which he or she specializes. "Parents liked it because kids liked it," said Besty Quist, teacher at Morris Bye Elementary School, which has been in the project since its first year, 2005-06. In addition to Morris Bye, schools currently in the project are Dayton, Eisenhower, Hamilton, McKinley, Oxbow Creek, Rum River and Washington.
More information on the specialization project is available in the Winter 2007 issue of Focus on Anoka-Hennepin newsletter. Click on the following link to view that issue: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=27208&catfilter=11696.
10. Carol Kidder named FOX 9 Top Teacher
Carol Kidder, Adult Basic Education teacher for Anoka-Hennepin, was one of nine teachers named Top Teacher* by FOX 9 TV in April. The award recognizes educators who have positively impacted the lives of students, the teaching profession and the community. Award recipients are recognized for their extraordinary teaching "above and beyond both inside and outside of the classroom."
Kidder's nomination stated, "Her welcoming personality and can-do attitude enable immigrants and refugees to see themselves as vital contributors to our community. Her passion for education and dedication to her learners improve the lives of her students and strengthens our community as a whole."
Kidder was selected by a panel of community leaders, including teachers and administrators, from more than 1,000 nominees. She has been teaching Adult Basic Education through Anoka-Hennepin Community Education since 1991. Kidder currently teaches English as a Second Language classes at the Columbia Heights/Fridley Adult Education Center, a program site for Metro North Adult Basic Education, of which Anoka-Hennepin is a member of. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Kidder also serves as site facilitator.
The award presentation was broadcast in April. Click on the following link to view the video of Kidder receiving her award: http://media.myfoxtwincities.com/special/top_teacher/2008/index.htm.
*This award is sponsored and organized by FOX 9 TV. It should not be confused with Anoka-Hennepin's TOP Award, which annually recognizes 20 district teachers for excellence in teaching.
11. Sara Zimowicz named Minnesota Council for the Social Studies Middle School Teacher of the Year
Sara Zimowicz, eight grade world geography teacher at Coon Rapids Middle School, was recently named the Minnesota Council for the Social Studies (MCSS) Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2008.
Each year, MCSS honors one high school, one middle school and one elementary school teacher who are recognized by colleagues, students and parents as an excellent social studies teacher. The teacher must utilize social studies materials and ideas that foster inquiry and development of social studies skills. They also have to have an ongoing interest in improving his or her knowledge and skills in social studies instruction.
Zimowicz was nominated for the award by Coon Rapids Middle School Principal Michelle Langenfeld and Teaching and Learning Specialist Scott Dougherty. Winners receive one year of free MCSS membership and a monetary award from sponsoring publishers.
Zimowicz's nomination form states that she is an exemplary teacher and leader among her peers. Her lessons are vibrant with hands-on activities that bring the world to her students. She uses music and global foods to reach those who have little experience outside of Minnesota and her English as Learned Language students, bringing their worlds together.
Zimowicz has provided outstanding leadership in her Professional Learning Community and has worked tirelessly to ensure that all students receive a guaranteed and viable curriculum. She also supports and coordinates other student programs and activities that go beyond the classroom, including the production of the Coon Rapids bi-monthly student TV show and the WEB transition program for incoming sixth graders.
"I was completely surprised by the award," said Zimowicz. "I had no idea I had been nominated until I received an e-mail saying I won!"
Zimowicz, who is also a 2007 winner of the Anoka-Hennepin Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) Award, was presented the award during a luncheon at the MCSS Spring Conference held March 6 through 7 at Mystic Lake.
Elementary School News and Events:
12. Retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School staff May 29
There will be a retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science staff members Linda Williams-Tuenge (principal) and Sue Roth (curriculum and technology integrator) on Thursday, May 29 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Riverview cafeteria.
Former Riverview students and families are invited to say goodbye to Williams-Tuenge and Roth, who started working at Riverview in 1997 and 1975, respectively. The event is geared toward former Riverview students and their families but is open to the public. Riverview is located at 1400 93rd Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
13. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
The public is invited to attend an open house in honor of Principal Patrick Murray's retirement on Monday, June 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Johnsville Parent Teacher Organizaton (PTO). Johnsville is located at 991 125th Ave N.E. in Blaine.
14. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
15. Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx teams renovate University Avenue Elementary School basketball courts
On Thursday, May 1, University Avenue Elementary School received a visit from Minnesota Lynx Head Coach Don Zierden and Lynx players Charde Houston and Navonda Moore, who were on hand for the school's event marking the renovation of its two basketball courts.
Each year, the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx teams provide funds to renovate school basketball courts in the metro area as part of their FastBreak Foundation, which works to positively impact Minnesota youth.
Students were treated to a question and answer session with Zierden, Houston and Moore, and a mini-clinic where students participated in ball handling and passing drills and a contest in which they shot baskets for cash.
View photos of this event on the Minnesota Lynx Web site at:
http://www.wnba.com/lynx/news/lynx_hit_the_community_080513.html.
Middle School News and Events:
16. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
The Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts art department invites the public to attend its annual spring art show, which will run from now until May 30. The show features artwork from students in the school's gallery.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/fmms or call 763-506-5000. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
17. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
The public is invited to attend Northdale Middle School's golf fundraiser on Saturday, June 7 at Bunker Hills Golf Course in Coon Rapids. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward a new computer lab at Northdale.
The event is a nine-hole, best ball tournament. Registration begins at 3 p.m.; tee time is 4:30 p.m. The event will also feature a silent auction, an ice cream social, and many other fun golfing games and activities. Box lunches are included.
Email: nmsopen@gmail.com to make a financial donation or to volunteer for the event. Contact Julie Vandenbrook at 763-506-5561 to donate items for the silent auction. For more information, email: NorthdaleOpen@gmail.com or call 763-506-5400.
Click on the following link to download a registration form: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=249125&catfilter=ALL&sc_id=1208373065&cms_mode=view.
High School News and Events:
18. Coon Rapids High School annual FCCLA thrift sale May 31
The Coon Rapids High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) group invites the public to attend its annual thrift sale on Saturday, May 21 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Coon Rapids High School, door number two.
Proceeds from the sale will fund the costs of FCCLA students attending the national FCCLA event in July.
The group is accepting donations for the sale. Items can be dropped off at the school on Friday, May 30 at door number two. Receipts will be provided.
Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
19. Blaine High School students get an inside look at transportation technology
Reprinted from the University of Minnesota CTS/ITS Institute Web site.
Twelve students and two teachers from the Blaine High School Center for Engineering, Math, and Science visited the University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies (CTS) and the ITS Institute on April 23. The Center for Engineering, Math and Science is a specialty program within Blaine High School offering an integrated and rigorous, in-depth program in mathematics, science, and engineering.
The purpose of the visit was to give students a perspective on transportation engineering and transportation careers. Students spent time learning about the uninhabited aerial vehicle in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, traffic monitoring and simulation research in the MTO, and earthquakes and structures in the civil engineering department.
Shawn Haag, program coordinator for CTS, said the students' reactions were enthusiastic. "The visit really opened their eyes," he said, referring to the variety of work and research in transportation. When asked if they would consider transportation as a potential career, over half of the students raised their hands.
View a photo of the visit online at:
http://www.its.umn.edu/News/2008/BlaineHighSchool.html.
College and Career Planning Events:
20. ACT prep course available for high school students through June 7
Is your child looking to prepare for the ACT exam in June? If so, consider enrolling them in Kaplan's ACT prep course, which meets on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. if it's a practice test) and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. at Blaine High School. See below for the complete schedule.
Course schedule:
1 - Practice test one (diagnostic), April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2 - English, reading, math and science, April 29 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
3 - English, math, science and strategy, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
4 - Reading, math, writing and strategy, May 6 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
5 - Practice test two, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
6 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
7 - English, reading, math and strategy, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
8 - Practice test three, May 20 from 5 to 9 p.m.
9 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
10 - English, writing, math and science, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
11 - Practice test four, June 5 from to 9 p.m.
12 - All five subject areas and strategy, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Anoka-Hennepin students can register for the course at the discounted price of $499 (regularly $699) by calling 1-800-KAP-TEST or going to: www.kaptest.com/act. Use the following code for the discount: ACMS8015. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
21. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• Minnesota Private College Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
Student Success:
22. Winners of the 2008 Anoka-Hennepin School District writing contest
For the past 28 years, elementary students from around the Anoka-Hennepin School District have entered in the district's annual writing contest. This year Anoka-Hennepin elementary school students wrote about many emotions, ranging from joy to sorrow, with excitement, gratitude, surprise, worry, frustration, and anger. Many pets, families and friends were featured, and the stories were filled with interesting language and visual pictures, said Phyllis Haensel, contest coordinator.
The contest is open to students in grades one through five who live or attend school in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Prizes are awarded to first place ($25), second place ($20) and third place ($15) winners in each grade level (grades one and two are combined). Three honorable mentions, which each receive $5, are also awarded in each level.
The winners of this year's contest are:
GRADE FIVE
Katie Raeker, L.O. Jacob Elementary School, first place
Quaid Schewe, Washington Elementary School, second place
Rashed Elbaba, Wilson Elementary School, third place
Susan Porter, Hamilton Elementary School, honorable mention
Taylor Counts-Lehtinen, Sand Creek Elementary School, honorable mention
Julie LaBosco, Madison Elementary School, honorable mention
Jarom Skarda, Hamilton Elementary School, honorable mention
GRADE FOUR
Selma Demirovich, Eisenhower Elementary School, first place
Allson Jablonsky, McKinley Elementary School, second place
Samantha Rolfson, Eisenhower Elementary School, third place
Sarah Hanson, Andover Elementary School, honorable mention
Hana France, Eisenhower Elementary School, honorable mention
GRADE THREE
Emily Webster, Oxbow Creek Elementary School, first place
Ali Gilsrud, Andover Elementary School, second place
Mia France, Eisenhower Elementary School, third place
Destiny Rose Larson, Eisenhower Elementary School, honorable mention
Zachary Yahn, Eisenhower Elementary School, honorable mention
Calvin Althoff, Andover Elementary School, honorable mention
GRADES ONE AND TWO
Grace Worwa, second grade, Dayton Elementary School, first place
Beau Mares, second grade, Eisenhower Elementary School, second place
Rylee Thompson, second grade, Eisenhower Elementary School, third place
Nikolas Erickson, second grade, Eisenhower Elementary School, honorable mention
Marianna Arocho, first grade, Andover Elementary School, honorable mention
Audrey Gasser, first grade, Andover Elementary School, honorable mention
Donna Bodinski (community member), Marlene Colvin (retired Anoka-Hennepin teacher and facilitator and Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation board member), Ellen Erickson (community member), Phyllis Haensel (third grade teacher at McKinley Elementary and Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation board member), Jackie Osterud (Title para at McKinley Elementary) and Sandy Perkerwicz (media generalist at Madison Elementary) served as judges for this year's contest.
First and second place winners will attend an award luncheon at the Seasons Restaurant as guests of the Coon Rapids Rotary Cub. The Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation co-sponsor the contest.
Community Education News and Events:
23. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
24. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
The Community Education School Readiness Preschool Program is gearing up for new classes to start this summer. Summer Preschool prepares children for the big step into kindergarten this fall. Fun summer activities will focus on readiness skills to help children enter kindergarten with more ease and confidence.
Classes will meet at four sites:
• Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center Preschool, 2740 Wingfield Ave. N. in Anoka.
• Blaine Preschool, inside the Blaine United Methodist Church, 621 115th Ave. N.E., in Blaine.
• Champlin Family Place, inside the Champlin Plaza Mall, 12443 Champlin Dr. in Champlin.
• Coon Rapids Foley, inside the Head Start Building, 9574 Foley Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
The six-week session starts June 17 and ends July 24. Days and times are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. A 12:30 to 3 p.m. class is available at the Anoka site only.
Children who have not had any preschool experience will receive registration priority. Children who have been to preschool are welcome as space allows.
Parents are responsible for transportation. A sliding fee scale based on family size and income is available to help pay tuition. Registration for the classes will be accepted by phone.
For more information call 763-506-2480.
25. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers day and evening classes for adults who want to earn a diploma by earning a GED or completing course work in the Adult Diploma program. Call 763-783-4870 for enrollment information. All classes are free!
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Volunteers are needed to assist adult students working on their English, reading, math or work skills. Call 763-783-4920 to talk with Metro North ABE's volunteer coordinator. Training is provided. Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out:
26. Mississippi Elementary School "Kids Against Hunger" event a success
On Wednesday, April 30, Mississippi Elementary School hosted a "Kids Against Hunger" event in which students, staff and volunteers packaged more than 55,000 meals to be sent to Haiti and Africa to feed starving children. The event also raised more than $2,100.
The event provided a hands-on, concrete way, for students to see how they can make a difference in the lives of starving children.
"It was a huge success and we plan to make it an annual spring event," said Twyla George, Mississippi Elementary social worker.
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Backpack Online #26 - Superintendent's Column, visitors from Iceland come to FMMS and Andover High School receives American Association of Physics Teachers grant. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Upcoming high school theater productions May 9 through 11
2. Oxbow Creek Elementary School Art of Spring celebration May 13
3. Blaine High School senior art show May 13
4. Free financial planning workshop May 13
5. Public invited to elementary "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
6. Washington Elementary School fine arts night and invention fair May 15
School Board News:
7. Listen to Action of the School Board summaries as podcast episodes
Superintendent's Column:
8. Spaceship Earth
General News and Events:
9. Anoka-Hennepin Adapted Sports Club used book sale May 17
Elementary School News and Events:
10. Evergreen Park students to showcase learning on May 20
11. Retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School staff May 29
12. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
13. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Middle School News and Events:
14. Coon Rapids Middle School inventors fair May 17
15. Roosevelt Middle School arts and academic celebration May 19
16. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
17. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
18. Visitors from Iceland come to Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts
High School News and Events:
19. Upcoming high school concerts May 13 through 19
20. Coon Rapids High School annual FCCLA thrift sale May 31
21. Andover High School receives American Association of Physics Teachers grant
College and Career Planning Events:
22. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
23. ACT prep course available for high school students through June 7
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Student Success:
25. District students place at Minnesota HOSA leadership conference
Community Education News and Events:
26. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
27. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
28. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
29. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Upcoming Events:
1. Upcoming high school theater productions May 9 through 11
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater spring productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
"My Fair Lady"
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m.
Andover High School theater students will perform the 1956 Broadway smash hit, "My Fair Lady." The musical, with book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, is based upon George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion." In it, a misogynistic and snobbish phonetics professor agrees to a wager that he can take a flower girl and make her presentable in high society.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $6 for K-12 students and senior citizens. For tickets, call 763-506-8491 or visit www.andovertheatre.org. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
Anoka High School
"High School Musical"
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Disney Channel's smash hit musical comes to life on stage! "High School Musical" is the irresistible story of two teenagers - Troy Bolton, super-popular captain of the basketball team, and Gabriella Montez, super-smart transfer student and a genius in science class - who try to navigate the tricky currents of peer pressure to follow their dreams and score the leads in the big school show. Don't miss this international sensation!
Ticket prices for adults are $10 for reserved tickets and $8 for general admission balcony tickets. Ticket prices for students and senior citizens are $5 for reserved tickets and $4 for balcony tickets.
Call 763-506-6439 (Monday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m.) for more information. Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
Coon Rapids High School
"Grease"
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $8 for adults. Call 763-506-7291 or go to www.anoka.k12.mn.us/crhstheatre to reserve your tickets. Reservations are recommended. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
2. Oxbow Creek Elementary School Art of Spring celebration May 13
The public is invited to attend Oxbow Creek Elementary School's Art of Spring celebration on Tuesday, May 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event combines the school's art fair and music program and will feature student artwork and performances.
Oxbow Creek is located at 6505 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
3. Blaine High School senior art show May 13
The public is invited to attend Blaine High School's senior art show opening night on Tuesday, May 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the school's IMC. The event will feature artwork from 23 seniors.
The event will also be open before school and from 1 to 2:45 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13 and Wednesday, May 14. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
4. Free financial planning workshop May 13
The following event is co-sponsored by school district Early Childhood Family Education programs, including Anoka-Hennepin.
Attention parents! You can bring financial sanity to your family. Sign up today for a free workshop designed for parents and grandparents on Tuesday, May 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Blaine National Sports Center (Schwan Center - Gold Room A).
The workshop will feature speaker Nathan Dungan, best-selling author of "Prodigal Sons and Material Girls: How Not to Be Your Child's ATM," who will present "Diapers, Daycare to Degree." Workshop participants will learn how to:
• Make the best financial plans for your child's college education
• Talk to your children about money
• Develop and maintain healthy financial habits
Seating is limited. Participants can R.S.V.P at: http://www.mnsaves.com or by calling
1-800-877-6602 (extension 3113).
The workshop is presented by Minnesota College Savings Plan and the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, and sponsored by school district Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) programs state wide and Working Family Resource Center.
5. Public invited to elementary school "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools have been named Schools of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association.
Johnsville Elementary in Blaine and Oxbow Creek Elementary in Champlin were among eight schools statewide to achieve the seven-year designation this year. Since MESPA began giving out the award in 1986, only two Anoka-Hennepin schools have achieved the honor: Andover Elementary in 1993 and McKinley Elementary in 1996.
Johnsville's celebration was March 26. Oxbow Creek will hold a celebration in conjunction with track and field day on May 14 from 9:15 to 10:45 a.m. outside the school, 6505 109th Ave. N., Champlin. The public is invited to attend the remaining celebration.
Click on the following link to read the entire article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19945.
6. Washington Elementary School fine arts night and invention fair May 15
The public is invited to attend Washington Elementary School's fine arts night and invention fair on Thursday, May 15 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The school is located at 2171 Sixth Ave. in Anoka.
School Board News:
7. Listen to Action of the School Board summaries as podcast episodes
The Communications and Public Relations Department announced the launch of the Action of the School Board (ASB) e-newsletter earlier this year. ASB provides brief summaries of Anoka-Hennepin School Board meetings for staff and the general public in PDF format. Selected summaries are now also available to download as podcast episodes in the Anoka-Hennepin Podcast Network (AHPN) section online.
Click on the following link to download summaries of the March 10 and 24 meetings as podcast episodes. Click on "Episode 16" for March 10 and "Episode 17" for March 24: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast.
Click on the following link to download summaries in PDF format for the Jan. 14, Jan. 28, Feb. 11, Feb. 25, March 10, March 24 and April 14 meetings: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/actionsb.
Complete minutes of School Board meetings are published on the district's Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/schoolboard and in the school district's legal newspapers:
• Anoka County Union
• Blaine Life
• Coon Rapids Herald
• Champlin Dayton Press
• Brooklyn Park Sun-Post
• Brooklyn Center Sun-Post
Superintendent's Column:
8. Spaceship Earth
By Dr. Roger Giroux, superintendent
The advances of technology-driven communications are increasing opportunities for learning to extraordinary levels, at extraordinary rates of change. Most of this learning is driven by individual access to information - it permeates every aspect of our society; and is independent of formal institutions. The beginning of the twenty-first century was predicted to be a time of revolution in human growth and learning and I believe we are living that revolution.
Twenty years ago I completed the once-in-a-lifetime family pilgrimage to Orlando for Disney World and Epcot. I came away from that experience with a greater understanding of high-impact visuals on learning. Spaceship Earth best illustrates the point. This exhibit, housed in large sphere that brands Epcot, literally moved an audience through the epochs of life on our planet. The program was narrated by none other than Walter Cronkite and was illustrated with extraordinary historical exhibits. It was difficult for anyone of any age not to leave with an understanding of the passage of time and history and a wonderment centered on the destiny of our planet. I thought it unfortunate that we couldn't create this kind of learning experience in our homes, schools and libraries. Epcot was and is land-based and expensive.
Twelve years ago I met with staff from Microsoft and was introduced to "anywhere, anytime learning." The concept was simple but revolutionary: a computer for every student that allows access to information and coursework both within a classroom and at a time and place of the student's choosing. The concept was, and is, superb, but the problems remain the same: costs are high, software is limited and a teacher is necessary.
So why talk of a revolution 12 years later? The Internet, that's why! I'll use the term "Internet" or "Web" to embody a host of technologies beyond my understanding but it is this online empowerment of millions of information providers that communicates knowledge as both information and skill in real time to anyone and everyone with a computer and Internet access. Five years ago we still fretted about misinformation and the evils of undocumented resources but those hazards appear to be largely self-correcting by the authors and owners of major Web pages. We are in a great revolution and its impact, both good and not-so-good, is in its infancy. I want to talk about the good of technology in the context of learning.
I'm a student of history with focused interest in several areas. I recently read a brief monograph on the cave art in southern France. The monograph included a list of related Web sites for additional reference. For information on the Cave of Lascaux I was directed to www.culture.gouv.fr/culture/arcnat/lascaux/en/. Online I viewed the cave, shared in the discovery and read an explanation of the science used for dating the cave. The cave was given to me as a visual cutaway with dots marking each of the chambers. Point to the dot and I was given a brief description of the art displayed in that chamber. Double click on the dot and I was given a picture of the wall of the chamber. All was in color. Other linked Web sites took me to explanations of the many techniques used for dating archaeological sites. Still others led me to the websites for major natural history museums around the world. Authoritative websites continued to link and the material available to me extended far beyond my time and, I'm sorry to say, my interest in detail.
I recently searched for the words "history of music" and was rewarded with several excellent Web sites including one on which a student could access a layout of an orchestra with each instrument in place. A single click and the name of the instrument was given with definition and function. Double-click and the student could hear the instrument's sound. Click on an attached video and the student could see and hear an orchestra play. Follow links and you could find whole musical pieces linked to historical time tables.
From the Internet we can learn about everything from the structure of an atom to the size of the universe, and from the mechanics of a car's brakes to the history of Ford Motor Company. We can visit the library around the corner or the Library of Congress or the Vatican Library. We can explore the basic principles of geometry and the architecture of a geodesic dome. At our fingertips is the history of the world and the history of our hometowns. Any and all kinds of information and knowledge cascade from the world community on this new thing we call the Web. How can we not see the power and marvel at the potential? How can we not sense that this is a time of significant change for mankind?
Now I look at our schools and ask what this revolution will mean for the way we teach and learn. First of all I think we are already far less anxious to provide information as the substance of learning and more focused on developing the ability to learn. We teach reading as a skill to develop throughout life. We teach math and science as a quantitative reasoning skill critical to all problem solving. We teach writing as a thinking skill that requires organization of thought. Music and art have long been more than recognition and identification they are also "ability to perform" and "ability to appreciate". Each area of instruction empowers the learner to apply, inquire and resolve with increased self-dependence for seeking information.
Secondly, I suggest that we will be changed by technologies long before we are able to change with technologies. In all walks of life, we see organizations and institutions succumbing to changed technologies before these institutions or the individuals within can adapt. Our traditional sources of news - television, radio and newspapers - are undergoing significant disruption directly related to online news access. I suspect formal learning will have similar experiences.
We have an increasing number of online college and high school online courses being promoted by the private sector. The field of computer based school programs is not yet rich or entirely flexible and the critical elements of social leaning, team learning and group problem solving aren't well integrated with online learning but this has to be a direction of the future.
The challenge we face in Anoka-Hennepin schools is to integrate these Web-based opportunities into instruction on a regular basis so students can learn the power of the Web for themselves and then use it to take their own journeys of discovery. To do this requires greater access to technology than students now have. Without it, the opportunity for our students to use this tremendous learning tool is limited to an occasional visit to the computer lab for research. But providing more technology requires a significant investment. Currently, there is no ongoing mechanism in state education funding formulas to fund purchase of technology. That's why school districts resort to asking voters to approve bond issues. In our case, that has not proven successful. In our last two referendum elections (2002 and 2007), voters have approved levies to pay to operate our schools, for which we are grateful, but they have turned down funding requests for technology. We need to find a better way to get the resources to equip our schools so students have access to this rich resource for learning.
General News and Events:
9. Anoka-Hennepin Adapted Sports Club used book sale May 17
The public is invited to attend the Anoka-Hennepin Mustangs Adapted Sports Booster Club used book sale on Saturday, May 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 14357 Tamarack St. N.W. in Andover. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the club.
The club is also accepting book donations. Contact Karen Sherga at 763-506-7357 or Carolynn Johnson at 763-413-9801 to make arrangements or for more information.
The location is just east of Hanson Blvd. on Andover Blvd. (.7 miles). Take a right on Tamarack St. The location of event is the first house on the left.
Elementary School News and Events:
10. Evergreen Park students to showcase learning on May 20
Parents and members of the public are invited to see Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary students show what they know during the school's first Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition. The event will be held this year in conjunction with the school's annual "Traveling Through the Minds" event.
The PYP Exhibition is an opportunity for fifth-grade students to showcase their projects, the culmination of a months-long inquiry and research process. Groups of students worked with a staff mentor to explore an idea of their own choosing. They explain how that subject relates to the core subject of inquiry for this year: "Scientific inquiry often leads to inventions and advancements that positively and negatively affect societies and the environment." Some examples of topics that students are investigating include plastic recycling, space exploration and artificial limbs.
The research projects are an integral part of the final project for the fifth-graders. Every student in the final year of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme is expected to carry out an extended collaborative inquiry project. This is the first year that Evergreen Park students have completed the final project. The school has been certified as an International Baccalaureate school for a year.
Dinner is $2 and will be served from 5 to 6 p.m. Kindergarten through fourth grade students will showcase their projects and inquiry learning in their classrooms from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and the fifth-grade exhibition will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary is located at 7020 Dupont Ave. N. in Brooklyn Center.
11. Retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School staff May 29
There will be a retirement open house for Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science staff members Linda Williams-Tuenge (principal) and Sue Roth Roth (curriculum and technology integrator) on Thursday, May 29 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Riverview cafeteria.
Former Riverview students and families are invited to say goodbye to Williams-Tuenge and Roth, who started working at Riverview in 1997 and 1975, respectively. The event is geared toward former Riverview students and their families but is open to the public. Riverview is located at 1400 93rd Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
12. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
The public is invited to attend an open house in honor of Principal Patrick Murray's retirement on Monday, June 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Johnsville Parent Teacher Organizaton (PTO). Johnsville is located at 991 125th Ave N.E. in Blaine.
13. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
Middle School News and Events:
14. Coon Rapids Middle School inventors fair May 17
The public is invited to attend Coon Rapids Middle School's annual inventors fair on Saturday, May 17 from 10 to 11 a.m. The fair will include projects from all three grades at the school.
For more information, contact John Chasteen, Coon Rapids Middle School sixth grade teacher, at 763-506-4852 or at: John.Chasteen@anoka.k12.mn.us. Coon Rapids Middle School is located at 11600 Raven St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
15. Roosevelt Middle School arts and academic celebration May 19
The public is invited to attend Roosevelt Middle School's annual arts and academic celebration on Monday, May 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature student work from all courses throughout the building, including: student music group performances in the music café, where snacks and a meal are available for purchase while visiting or listening to the music and a dragster car display.
The dragster display is in recognition of the industrial technology race cars that Roosevelt students designed and will race in front of others on a track that will be set up in the hallway.
Roosevelt Middle School is located at 650 125th Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
16. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
The Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts art department invites the public to attend its annual spring art show, which will run from now until May 30. The show will feature artwork from students in the school's gallery.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/fmms or call 763-506-5000. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
17. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
The public is invited to attend Northdale Middle School's golf fundraiser on Saturday, June 7 at Bunker Hills Golf Course in Coon Rapids. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward a new computer lab at Northdale.
The event is a nine-hole, best ball tournament. Registration begins at 3 p.m.; tee time is 4:30 p.m. The event will also feature a silent auction, an ice cream social, and many other fun golfing games and activities. Box lunches are included.
Email: nmsopen@gmail.com to make a financial donation or to volunteer for the event. Contact Julie Vandenbrook at 763-506-5561 to donate items for the silent auction. For more information, email: NorthdaleOpen@gmail.com or call 763-506-5400.
Click on the following link to download a registration form: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=249125&catfilter=ALL&sc_id=1208373065&cms_mode=view.
18. Visitors from Iceland come to Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts
Students and staff at Fred Moore Middle School for the Arts played host to 12 visitors from Iceland on Wednesday, April 23. The group, which included administrators, support staff and teachers, came to Minnesota to observe different kinds of school structures.
Elin Gisladottir said that in Iceland, all students attend their neighborhood schools, which typically house students from ages 6 to 16. "There are no choices," said Bjork Petersdottir. "We are here to see something new. I like this," she added, gesturing around the school.
Icelandic and Danish language teacher Kristin Jena Magnusdottir was interested in Judy Mertes' sixth-grade classroom, where the students were doing an experiment called "The Vesorium Lab".
"It's very fascinating," she said as she watched the students work on the experiment, which involved pencils stuck through Styrofoam cups, with tinfoil balanced on top. Student used static electricity on lambs wool to make the tinfoil move.
She said the group was especially interested in what U.S. schools do to help students who have trouble behaving in a conventional classroom setting.
Mertes' students learned a bit from their visitor as well. Toward the end of the period, she answered their questions and explained the Icelandic name structure, where children have different last names based on the first names of their fathers. For example, she said, her father's name is Magnus, and so her name is Magnusdottir.
View a photo of this event online at:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=20359.
High School News and Events:
19. Upcoming high school concerts May 13 through 19
Listed below are dates and times for upcoming high school orchestra, band and choir concerts. Additional school dates and times will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
Tuesday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. (orchestra)
Thursday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. (band)
Monday, May 19 at 7:30 p.m. (choir)
Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
20. Coon Rapids High School annual FCCLA thrift sale May 31
The Coon Rapids High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) group invites the public to attend its annual thrift sale on Saturday, May 21 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Coon Rapids High School, door number two.
Proceeds from the sale will fund the costs of FCCLA students attending the national FCCLA event in July.
The group is accepting donations for the sale. Items can be dropped off at the school on Friday, May 30 at door number two. Receipts will be provided.
Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
21. Andover High School receives American Association of Physics Teachers grant
Andover High School recently received the American Association of Physics Teachers 2008 High School Physics Teacher Grant. Physics teacher Scott Shaffer will use this grant to develop student created podcasts as a way to increase student understanding of basic physics ideas, as well as demonstrate what students have learned. Implementation of this grant will begin in the fall of next year.
College and Career Planning Events:
22. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
The ACT condensed course, "ACT Express" will be available to Anoka-Hennepin high school students just prior to the June 14 ACT test, at the reduced price of $199 (regularly $299).
The 12-hour course includes instruction, test-taking strategies and skills review. The cost includes course, diagnostic exam and book. The course will be offered at Coon Rapids High School at the following times:
• Diagnostic exam on May 14 at 3 p.m.
• Follow-up class May 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Call 1-800-KAP-TEST or go to: www.kaptest.com/act to enroll or for more information. Be sure to use the following code to receive the Anoka-Hennepin discount: AXMS8002. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
23. ACT prep course available for high school students through June 7
Is your child looking to prepare for the ACT exam in June? If so, consider enrolling them in Kaplan's ACT prep course, which meets on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. if it's a practice test) and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. at Blaine High School. See below for the complete schedule.
Course schedule:
1 - Practice test one (diagnostic), April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2 - English, reading, math and science, April 29 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
3 - English, math, science and strategy, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
4 - Reading, math, writing and strategy, May 6 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
5 - Practice test two, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
6 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
7 - English, reading, math and strategy, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
8 - Practice test three, May 20 from 5 to 9 p.m.
9 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
10 - English, writing, math and science, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
11 - Practice test four, June 5 from to 9 p.m.
12 - All five subject areas and strategy, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Anoka-Hennepin students can register for the course at the discounted price of $499 (regularly $699) by calling 1-800-KAP-TEST or going to:
www.kaptest.com/act
. Use the following code for the discount: ACMS8015. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• Minnesota Private College Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email: colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
Student Success:
25. District students place at Minnesota HOSA leadership conference
The following Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) students placed at the Minnesota HOSA leadership conference, held April 22 through 24 in Minnetonka. Winners from the state competition qualify to compete in the National HOSA competition in Dallas, Texas from June 18 through 22.
HOSA is a National Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) endorsed by the Department of Education and the Health Occupations Education Division of the Association for Career and Technical Education. HOSA provides a unique program of leadership development, motivation, and recognition exclusively for secondary, postsecondary, adult and collegiate students enrolled in health occupations education programs. HOSA has three competitive events during the year, in which students compete in health-related categories like medical spelling and terminology.
ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
Kaitlin Arnold, third place, Medical Spelling
Angela Hwang, first place, Health Education
Ashley Verbik, first place, Health Education
ANOKA HIGH SCHOOL
Erin Foucault, second place, Creative Problem Solving
Kelsey Gould, third place, Creative Problem Solving
Molly Grailer, first place, Extemporaneous Writing
Kayla Lange, third place, Creative Problem Solving
Lindsey Niederhaus, second place, Creative Problem Solving; third place, Medical Terminology
Kelsey Picha, third place, Creative Problem Solving
Laura Schering, third place, Extemporaneous Writing
Shannon Tryba, second place, Creative Problem Solving
BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL
Zainab Khatoon, first place, Career Health Display
Sabah Khatoon, first place, Career Health Display
Josh Mitchell, second place, Medical Spelling
Kirsten Vik, first place, Medical Math
COON RAPIDS HIGH SCHOOL
Layosha Wade-Lloyd, first place, Interviewing Skills
Stephanie Pruitt, second place, Researched Persuasive Speaking
SECONDARY TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (STEP)
Liz Hoium, first place, Sports Medicine
Rachael Schmidt, second place, Extemporaneous Speaking;
SECONDARY TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (STEP) - EMS
Torrey Gavin, first place, Public Service Announcement; second place, Health Education
Liz Hoium, first place Researched Persuasive Speaking
Emily Jonell, third place, Researched Persuasive Speaking
Kayla Little, first place, Public Service Announcement; second place, Health Education; third place, CPR and First Aid
Sierra Miller, first place, Public Service Announcement; second place, Health Education
Rachael Schmidt, first place, Public Service Announcement; second place, Health Education; third place, CPR and First Aid
Jessica Travis, third place, Medical Photography
Community Education News and Events:
26. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
27. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
Exciting and enriching classes are calling your name! Get outdoors, brighten your landscape or discover how much fun cooking can be. The spring Adult Class catalog is full of learning opportunities just for you.
To check out all of the available classes or to register, visit:
www.discovercommunityed.com
or call 763-506-5766 (Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Press one when prompted. Below are a few upcoming classes you won't want to miss.
TEX MEX COOKING
Start with empanadas - tasty little pastries filled with beef, tomatoes, potatoes, and herbs. Enjoy authentic Mexican rice, prepared with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and fresh coriander leaves. Fajitas will follow - tender strips of beef and chicken along with fresh sautéed bell pepper and onion wrapped in warm tortilla shells and served with fresh tomato salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. Finish this fiesta with a Yucatecan-style delight. Class fee: $55.
· Monday, May 12 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Northdale Middle School, 11301 Dogwood St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8614&catID=
ORGANIC LAWN CARE
Learn how to care for your lawn, garden, and landscape without using toxic chemicals! Find out what to do, when to do it, and where to get supplies and services. Discover the secrets to organic weed control. Class fee: $19.
· Tuesday, May 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8644&catID=
BALANCED FOODS = BALANCED MOODS
Discuss the effects that food has on your energy, your memory, and your overall mood. Learn the biochemical connection to cravings and how poor intestinal health creates low moods. Class fee: $39
· Tuesday, May 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7648&catID=
MAKE YOUR OWN FISHING POLE
Build a fishing rod from the ground up. Choose from a six-foot medium light-spinning rod or a six-foot medium light-casting rod. A completed fishing rod, depending on the craftsmanship, can be valued in excess of $300. Supply fee of $75 paid to instructor Gary Wicks at class. Class fee: $25.
· Wednesdays, May 14 and 21 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Oak View Middle School; 15400 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7488&catID=
28. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
The Community Education School Readiness Preschool Program is gearing up for new classes to start this summer. Summer Preschool prepares children for the big step into kindergarten this fall. Fun summer activities will focus on readiness skills to help children enter kindergarten with more ease and confidence.
Classes will meet at four sites:
• Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center Preschool, 2740 Wingfield Ave. N. in Anoka.
• Blaine Preschool, inside the Blaine United Methodist Church, 621 115th Ave. N.E., in Blaine.
• Champlin Family Place, inside the Champlin Plaza Mall, 12443 Champlin Dr. in Champlin.
• Coon Rapids Foley, inside the Head Start Building, 9574 Foley Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
The six-week session starts June 17 and ends July 24. Days and times are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. A 12:30 to 3 p.m. class is available at the Anoka site only.
Children who have not had any preschool experience will receive registration priority. Children who have been to preschool are welcome as space allows.
Parents are responsible for transportation. A sliding fee scale based on family size and income is available to help pay tuition. Registration for the classes will be accepted by phone.
For more information call 763-506-2480.
29. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers day and evening classes for adults who want to earn a diploma by earning a GED or completing course work in the Adult Diploma program. Call 763-783-4870 for enrollment information. All classes are free!
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Volunteers are needed to assist adult students working on their English, reading, math or work skills. Call 763-783-4920 to talk with Metro North ABE's volunteer coordinator. Training is provided. Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
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Backpack Online #25 - District takes action on toys containing lead, new math curriculum to begin next fall and School Readiness summer preschool classes. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Jackson Middle School annual arts and academic expo May 1
2. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
3. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Wizard of Oz" May 2, 3 and 4
4. Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk May 3
5. Morris Bye Elementary School science fair May 6
6. Ramsey Elementary School annual fine arts night May 8
General News and Events:
7. Minnesota Volunteer Recognition Week/National Volunteer Recognition Week: April 27 through May 3
8. National Teacher Appreciation Week May 4 through 10; National Teacher Day May 6
9. Child Nutrition Employee Appreciation Week is May 5 through 9
10. Anoka-Hennepin Adapted Sports Club used book sale May 17
11. District takes action on toys containing lead
12. New math curriculum to begin next fall
Elementary School News and Events:
13. Oxbow Creek Elementary School Art of Spring celebration May 13
14. Public invited to elementary "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
15. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
16. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
17. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Middle School News and Events:
18. Coon Rapids Middle School Inventors Fair May 17
19. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
20. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
High School News and Events:
21. Blaine High School senior art show May 13
22. Upcoming high school concerts
23. Upcoming high school theater productions
College and Career Planning Events:
24. High school career centers open to the public (link)
25. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
26. ACT prep course available for high school students through June 7
27. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Community Education News and Events:
28. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
29. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
30. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Upcoming Events:
1. Jackson Middle School annual arts and academic expo May 1
The public is invited to attend Jackson Middle School's annual arts and academic expo May 1. The event will feature outstanding works from hundreds of Jackson students, as well as live performances by student musicians.
The expo is open during the school day and Thursday, May 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. Jackson Middle School is located at 6000 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
2. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 6 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19998.
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
3. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Wizard of Oz" May 2, 3 and 4
The public is invited to attend Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts production of "The Wizard of Oz."
L. Frank Baum's magical story of "The Wizard of Oz" will come to life on stage in Anne Coulter Marten's faithful stage adaptation. This production is not the MGM Musical version, but instead one that follows more closely Baum's original book. The production is directed by Jefferson Fietek. Costumes are designed by Deb Murphy with lighting design by Stirling Callander.
Dorothy, a young girl in Kansas, is swept away during a cyclone and lands in a magical land named Oz. During her adventure to find her way back to Kansas, she befriends three delightful characters; a scarecrow, a man made of tin and a lion. While trying to solve the mystery of "how to get home," she must also confront the evil Wicked Witch of the West. The Witch will stop at nothing to avenge the death of her sister, inadvertently crushed by Dorothy's falling house!
Performances are as follows:
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students. Seating is reserved. To order tickets, call 763-506-FMMS (3667). Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
4. Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk May 3
The public is invited to participate in the Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, May 3. The race begins at 8:30 a.m. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go toward a scholarship that benefits Crossroads Alternative High School at-risk youth.
Randy began working for the Anoka-Hennepin School District in 1999 and was a beloved high school science teacher at Crossroads, where he taught at-risk youth. Randy was also an enthusiastic runner, an outdoor adventurer and a lover of life. In 2003, Randy received an Anoka-Hennepin's Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) award. TOP teachers are nominated by students, parents, staff and community members.
In 2004, a routine scan and subsequent biopsy indicated he had renal cell carcinoma. Randy didn't let his illness deny him the joy of life's every moment. He trained and completed his 19th Grandma's Marathon in 2005. Randy passed away on Aug. 29, 2007.
The cost to participate in the event is $20 (if registration is completed before April 26) and $25 the day of the event. The race will start and end at Crossroads Alternative High School in Coon Rapids. Participants can register online at: www.randybauermemorial5k.com.
For more information, contact Dennis Olson at 612-868-1333. Crossroads Alternative High School is located at 1313 Coon Rapids Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
5. Morris Bye Elementary School science fair May 6
The public is invited to attend Morris Bye Elementary School's science fair on Tuesday, May 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The fair will feature projects from Morris Bye third, fourth and fifth graders.
Morris Bye Elementary School is located at 11931 Crooked Lake Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
6. Ramsey Elementary School annual fine arts night May 8
The public is invited to attend Ramsey Elementary School's annual fine arts night on Thursday, May 8 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The event will feature an all-school art show in which each student will contribute two, 2D pieces of art and one sculpture or clay artwork.
The event will also feature a book fair, an ice cream social, third grade family folk dance, face painting, roaming artists, photo props (bring a camera) technology demonstrations and the "People's Choice" award.
Ramsey Elementary School is located at 15000 Nowthen Blvd. in Ramsey.
General News and Events:
7. Minnesota Volunteer Recognition Week/National Volunteer Recognition Week: April 27 through May 3
April 27 through May 3 is both Minnesota Volunteer Recognition Week and National Volunteer Recognition Week. It is an ideal opportunity to express appreciation to all volunteers in a public forum.
Anoka-Hennepin has a proud history of volunteerism. Volunteers assist in the classroom, workrooms and on the athletic fields. They chaperone fieldtrips, athletic events and proms. They lead school-based and district-wide parent group efforts and participate on decision-making committees. They assist in English as a Second Language (ESL), collect data from kindergarten students on their pre-reading skills, sew costumes for plays, organize special projects with students and complete marathons of clerical work.
According to Sue Archbold, volunteer services supervisor, the range of opportunities available to students expands greatly because of the dedicated, trained volunteers who teach in the following areas: challenge math, picture presenters, challenge reading and other enrichment programs. Extra-curricular academic activities such as Destination ImagiNation, robotics competition, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair, spelling bees and geography bees depend on the work of volunteers.
"Volunteers benefit the students they work with directly, those they greet in the hall, and those who see them at work," said Archbold. "Search Institute has identified nurturing adults outside of a child's nuclear family as an important positive influence in that child's development."
In Anoka-Hennepin, more than 9,000 active volunteers reported over 176,000 hours of work during the last school year. Independent Sector's Giving and Volunteering in the United Stated assigned a dollar value of $3,184,354 to their contribution of unpaid service to the district. Give thanks to the volunteers at your child's school today!
8. National Teacher Appreciation Week May 4 through 10; National Teacher Day May 6
On May 6, National Teacher Day, thousands of communities will take time out to honor their local educators and acknowledge the contributions they make to our lives. Teachers play a crucial role in making sure every child receives a quality public education. National Teacher Day and National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4 through 10) convey the hard work that teachers do each day to make public schools great for every child. Be sure to say "thanks" to the teachers in your families' lives.
History of National Teacher Day
The origins of National Teacher Day are murky. Around 1944 Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers. Woodbridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt, who in 1953 persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day.
The National Education Association (NEA), along with its Kansas and Indiana state affiliates and the Dodge City (Kan.) Local, lobbied Congress to create a national day celebrating teachers. Congress declared March 7, 1980, as National Teacher Day for that year only.
NEA and its affiliates continued to observe National Teacher Day on the first Tuesday in March until 1985, when the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) established Teacher Appreciation Week as the first full week of May. The NEA Representative Assembly then voted to make the Tuesday of that week National Teacher Day.
Celebrated on the Tuesday of the first full week of May, the actual date varies each year.
9. Child Nutrition Employee Appreciation Week is May 5 through 9
Teaching nutrition lessons, preparing healthy school meals and offering a friendly greeting are all in a day's work for more than 200,000 child nutrition employees in the nation's 99,000 school cafeterias and kitchens. The non-profit School Nutrition Association celebrates this professional commitment with Child Nutrition Employee Appreciation Week, May 5 through 9. The week is an opportunity for parents, students, school staff and communities to thank those who provide healthy school meals to more than 30 million children each school day.
School nutrition employees must balance many roles and follow numerous federal, state and local regulations to ensure safe and healthy meals are available in schools. They are trained sanitation and food safety experts and must manage financially self-sufficient programs. School nutrition professionals also provide nutrition education to students, as well as healthy catering services to their communities. They use their creativity to make the cafeteria a fun and welcoming place all year long and perform their jobs each day because they care passionately about the children they serve.
The importance and nutritional value of school meals are well documented. For many children, school lunch is the most important and nutrient-rich meal of their day. Children depend upon school lunch for one-third to one-half of their daily nutritional intake. The U.S. Government Accountability Office, the investigative arm of Congress, found that "school meals are healthy and children who eat school meals consume more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dairy items than children who do not eat school meals."
In a 2007 Trend study, school nutrition professionals provided specific examples of common improvements made to school meals this school year. Among the most popular responses were:
• Reducing/limiting trans fat content (74%)
• Limiting fat content of a la carte/vending items (73%)
• Increasing availability of healthier beverages in vending machines (81%)
• Increasing availability of fresh fruits/vegetables on a la carte lines and/or vending machines (69%)
Additionally, policy deployment has increased for nearly every area from past years, including the percentage of districts with a policy that limits the fat content of a la carte and/or vending items rising to 73 percent from 38 percent in 2004.
The School Nutrition Association is a national, non-profit professional organization representing more than 55,000 members who provide high-quality, low-cost meals to students across the country. The Association and its members are dedicated to feeding children safe and nutritious meals. SNA is the only association devoted exclusively to protecting and enhancing children's health and well being through school meals and sound nutrition education.
10. Anoka-Hennepin Adapted Sports Club used book sale May 17
The public is invited to attend the Anoka-Hennepin Mustangs Adapted Sports Booster Club used book sale on Saturday, May 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 14357 Tamarack St. N.W. in Andover. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the club.
The club is also accepting book donations. Contact Karen Sherga at 763-506-7357 or Carolynn Johnson at 763-413-9801 to make arrangements or for more information.
The location is just east of Hanson Blvd. on Andover Blvd. (.7 miles). Take a right on Tamarack St. The location of event is the first house on the left.
11. District takes action on toys containing lead
When news about lead in toys began surfacing earlier this year, the Anoka-Hennepin School District immediately began taking steps to test and remove potentially harmful items from classrooms. The district reviewed all toy recalls posted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and hired experts certified in lead testing to test toys used in school programs and classrooms.
"It is our goal to remove as soon as possible all toys that contain levels of lead at or beyond the level considered safe," said Chuck Holden, Director of Operations and head of the district's Health, Wellness and Safety Committee. He pointed out that the Centers for Disease Control have stated that do-it-yourself lead "swab" tests available in hardware stores are not considered reliable.
Only a small percentage of items tested thus far have been found to have lead levels higher than the level recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. All new toys purchased by the district meet the lead standards of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Lead is relatively common in the environment. It is still used in manufacturing plastics and in some paints. It has been banned from house paint in the United States for 30 years, but paint containing lead is still used in other countries and can be found on imported toys. Exposure to high levels of lead can be a health risk for young children and pregnant women.
Children are exposed to lead when they place toys, fingers and other objects in their mouths. Parents can minimize the amount of lead their children ingest by helping them with proper hand washing after they have played with toys or played on the floor.
Information on toy recalls is at www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/Recalls/ and www.cpsc.gov. Toys not returned for refund or replacement may be discarded with your household trash.
More information on lead poisoning is at: www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/lead.
12. New math curriculum to begin next fall
Teachers will begin using a new curriculum to teach mathematics in all Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools this coming fall. The Everyday Mathematics curriculum was selected after an extensive study by the district's Mathematics Curriculum Adoption Committee, which included teachers representing all grade levels from 19 schools.
The new curriculum was introduced to teachers during a staff development day April 7. Many teachers said they are looking forward to using the new curriculum and are excited about it. They commented that it's a rigorous program that will challenge students and empower them to truly understand mathematics.
Teachers also said the new math curriculum is more parent-friendly than the current curriculum and has a strong family component. It combines the traditional mathematics equations most parents are familiar with plus the new approaches to teaching math that are based on research into how students learn best. Homework will be easier for parents to understand. Family information sheets explain the math concepts taught in the unit and give examples of the work that to be done.
Teachers also like its strong algebra component and the fact that it spirals -w it teaches a specific concept and then goes back to review and build onto it in later months.
Everyday Mathematics was developed by the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project, which grew out of concern that the nation was failing to provide students with an adequate math education. The goal of the project is to significantly improve the mathematics curriculum and instruction for all students in the U.S.
Look for more information on Everyday Mathematics in the summer issue of the district's FOCUS newsletter and online at http://everydaymath.uchicago.edu/.
Elementary School News and Events:
13. Oxbow Creek Elementary School Art of Spring celebration May 13
The public is invited to attend Oxbow Creek Elementary School's Art of Spring celebration on Tuesday, May 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event combines the school's art fair and music program and will feature student artwork and performances.
Oxbow Creek is located at 6505 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
14. Public invited to elementary school "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools have been named Schools of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association.
Johnsville Elementary in Blaine and Oxbow Creek Elementary in Champlin were among eight schools statewide to achieve the seven-year designation this year. Since MESPA began giving out the award in 1986, only two Anoka-Hennepin schools have achieved the honor: Andover Elementary in 1993 and McKinley Elementary in 1996.
Johnsville's celebration was March 26. Oxbow Creek will hold a celebration in conjunction with track and field day on May 14 from 9:15 to 10:45 a.m. outside the school, 6505 109th Ave. N., Champlin. The public is invited to attend the remaining celebration.
Click on the following link to read the entire article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19945.
15. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
The public is invited to attend an open house in honor of Principal Patrick Murray's retirement on Monday, June 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Johnsville Parent Teacher Organizaton (PTO). Johnsville is located at 991 125th Ave N.E. in Blaine.
16. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
17. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
Middle School News and Events:
18. Coon Rapids Middle School Inventors Fair May 17
The public is invited to attend Coon Rapids Middle School's annual Inventors Fair on Saturday, May 17 from 10 to 11 a.m. The fair will include projects from all three grades at the school.
For more information, contact John Chasteen, Coon Rapids Middle School sixth grade teacher, at 763-506-4852 or at: john.chasteen@anoka.k12.mn.us. Coon Rapids Middle School is located at 11600 Raven St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
19. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
The Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts art department invites the public to attend its annual spring art show, which will run from now until May 30. The show will feature artwork from students in the school's gallery.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/fmms or call 763-506-5000. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
20. Northdale Middle School golf fundraiser June 7
The public is invited to attend Northdale Middle School's golf fundraiser on Saturday, June 7 at Bunker Hills Golf Course in Coon Rapids. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward a new computer lab at Northdale.
The event is a nine-hole, best ball tournament. Registration begins at 3 p.m.; tee time is 4:30 p.m. The event will also feature a silent auction, an ice cream social, and many other fun golfing games and activities. Box lunches are included.
Email: nmsopen@gmail.com to make a financial donation or to volunteer for the event. Contact Julie Vandenbrook at 763-506-5561 to donate items for the silent auction. For more information, email: NorthdaleOpen@gmail.com or call 763-506-5400.
Click on the following link to download a registration form: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=249125&catfilter=ALL&sc_id=1208373065&cms_mode=view.
High School News and Events:
21. Blaine High School senior art show May 13
The public is invited to attend Blaine High School's senior art show opening night on Tuesday, May 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the school's IMC. The event will feature artwork from 23 seniors.
The event will also be open before school and from 1 to 2:45 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13 and Wednesday, May 14. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
22. Upcoming high school concerts
Listed below are dates and times for upcoming high school orchestra, band and choir concerts. Additional school dates and times will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
Tuesday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. (orchestra)
Thursday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. (band)
Monday, May 19 at 7:30 p.m. (choir)
Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
23. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater spring productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
"My Fair Lady"
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m.
Andover High School theater students will perform the 1956 Broadway smash hit, "My Fair Lady." The musical, with book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, is based upon George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion." In it, a misogynistic and snobbish phonetics professor agrees to a wager that he can take a flower girl and make her presentable in high society.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $6 for K-12 students and senior citizens. For tickets, call 763-506-8491 or visit: www.andovertheatre.org. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
Anoka High School
"High School Musical"
Thursday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Disney Channel's smash hit musical comes to life on stage! "High School Musical" is the irresistible story of two teenagers - Troy Bolton, super-popular captain of the basketball team, and Gabriella Montez, super-smart transfer student and a genius in science class - who try to navigate the tricky currents of peer pressure to follow their dreams and score the leads in the big school show. Don't miss this international sensation!
Ticket prices for adults are $10 for reserved tickets and $8 for general admission balcony tickets. Ticket prices for students and senior citizens are $5 for reserved tickets and $4 for balcony tickets.
Call 763-506-6439 (Monday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m.) for more information. Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
Blaine High School
"Beauty and the Beast"
Friday, May 2 at 7 p.m. (ASL Performance)
Saturday, May 3 at 7 p.m.
Ticket prices for reserved tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free. Call 763-506-6666 for reservations. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
Champlin Park High School
"Ovation!"
Thursday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2:30 p.m.
"Ovation!" is an annual musical revue produced by the Champlin Park High School theater and music departments. This year's theme, "British Invasion," features music from The Beatles, Dusty Springfield, The Yardbirds, The Troggs, Herman's Hermits and Petula Clark, among others.
Tickets are $6 for students and senior citizens and $8 for adults. All seating is general admission and tickets will be available at the door. Tickets are half-price on opening night. Champlin Park High School is located at 6025 109th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
Coon Rapids High School
"Grease"
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. (ASL Performance)
Saturday, May 3 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $8 for adults. Call 763-506-7291 or go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/crhstheatre to reserve your tickets. Reservations are recommended. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
College and Career Planning Events:
24. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
25. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
The ACT condensed course, "ACT Express" will be available to Anoka-Hennepin high school students just prior to the June 14 ACT test, at the reduced price of $199 (regularly $299).
The 12-hour course includes instruction, test-taking strategies and skills review. The cost includes course, diagnostic exam and book. The course will be offered at Coon Rapids High School at the following times:
• Diagnostic exam on May 14 at 3 p.m.
• Follow-up class May 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Call 1-800-KAP-TEST or go to: www.kaptest.com/act to enroll or for more information. Be sure to use the following code to receive the Anoka-Hennepin discount: AXMS8002. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
26. ACT prep course available for high school students through June 7
Is your child looking to prepare for the ACT exam in June? If so, consider enrolling them in Kaplan's ACT prep course, which meets on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. if it's a practice test) and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. at Blaine High School. See below for the complete schedule.
Course schedule:
1 - Practice test one (diagnostic), April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2 - English, reading, math and science, April 29 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
3 - English, math, science and strategy, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
4 - Reading, math, writing and strategy, May 6 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
5 - Practice test two, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
6 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
7 - English, reading, math and strategy, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
8 - Practice test three, May 20 from 5 to 9 p.m.
9 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
10 - English, writing, math and science, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
11 - Practice test four, June 5 from to 9 p.m.
12 - All five subject areas and strategy, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Anoka-Hennepin students can register for the course at the discounted price of $499 (regularly $699) by calling 1-800-KAP-TEST or going to: www.kaptest.com/act. Use the following code for the discount: ACMS8015. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
27. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Andover High School cafeteria. A total of 50 representatives from four- and two-year colleges, career schools and military will be in attendance.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• Minnesota Private College Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email: colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
Community Education News and Events:
28. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
29. Get ready for School Readiness summer preschool classes
The Community Education School Readiness Preschool Program is gearing up for new classes to start this summer. Summer Preschool prepares children for the big step into kindergarten this fall. Fun summer activities will focus on readiness skills to help children enter kindergarten with more ease and confidence.
Classes will meet at four sites:
• Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center Preschool, 2740 Wingfield Ave. N. in Anoka.
• Blaine Preschool, inside the Blaine United Methodist Church, 621 115th Ave. N.E., in Blaine.
• Champlin Family Place, inside the Champlin Plaza Mall, 12443 Champlin Dr. in Champlin.
• Coon Rapids Foley, inside the Head Start Building, 9574 Foley Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
The six-week session starts June 17 and ends July 24. Days and times are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. A 12:30 to 3 p.m. class is available at the Anoka site only.
Children who have not had any preschool experience will receive registration priority. Children who have been to preschool are welcome as space allows.
Parents are responsible for transportation. A sliding fee scale based on family size and income is available to help pay tuition. Registration for the classes will be accepted by phone.
For more information call 763-506-2480.
30. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers day and evening classes for adults who want to earn a diploma by earning a GED or completing course work in the Adult Diploma program. Call 763-783-4870 for enrollment information. All classes are free!
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Volunteers are needed to assist adult students working on their English, reading, math or work skills. Call 763-783-4920 to talk with Metro North ABE's volunteer coordinator. Training is provided. Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
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Backpack Online #24 - Champlin Park students create artwork for Champlin Elementary, Johnsville Elementary students celebrate 100 days of school with special visit and students place at regional and state science fairs. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Early Childhood Special Education "Spring Family Fund Day" April 19
2. Morris Bye Elementary School art fair and music program April 24
General News and Events:
3. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
4. Raising awareness of youth homelessness in our communities workshop April 30
5. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
6. Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk May 3
7. Champlin Park students create artwork for Champlin Elementary School
Elementary School News and Events:
8. Mississippi Elementary School "Kids Against Hunger" event April 30
9. Andover Elementary School showcase May 1
10. Morris Bye Elementary School science fair May 6
11. Ramsey Elementary School annual fine arts night May 8
12. Oxbow Creek Elementary School Art of Spring celebration May 13
13. Public invited to elementary "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
14. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
15. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
16. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
17. Johnsville Elementary School students celebrate 100 days of school with special visit
Middle School News and Events:
18. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Wizard of Oz" in April and May
19. Jackson Middle School annual arts and academic expo April 29, 30 and May 1
20. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
High School News and Events:
21. Upcoming high school concerts
22. Upcoming high school theater productions
College and Career Planning Events:
23. High school career centers open to the public (link)
24. ACT prep course available for high school students April 26 through June 7
25. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
26. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
27. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
Student Success:
28. Middle and high school students place at regional and state science fairs
Community Education News and Events:
29. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
30. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
31. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Upcoming Events:
1. Early Childhood Special Education "Spring Family Fund Day" April 19
The Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education program will host its "Spring Family Fun Day" on Saturday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center, 2740 Wingfield Ave. N. in Anoka.
The event will feature games, healthy snacks, a book fair, a silent auction and more. The event is geared toward preschoolers and families, but is open to the public. Call 763-506-1450 for more information.
2. Morris Bye Elementary School art fair and music program April 24
The public is invited to attend Morris Bye Elementary School's art fair and music program on Thursday, April 24 at 6:45 p.m. The art fair will feature artwork from all Morris Bye students. The music program will be performed by fourth grade students.
Morris Bye Elementary School is located at 11931 Crooked Lake Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
General News and Events:
3. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement. There are two sessions: one for professionals who work with children and one for parents.
In a world where children are often given the message that the ends justify the means; where harmful even violent behavior goes unnoticed; where children's ethical education can come from a T-shirt slogan, an Internet site or the evening news, the "Just because it's not wrong doesn't make it right" workshop is an essential tool for professionals who work with children and parents.
In this workshop with the internationally renowned author, Barbara Coloroso, participants will find out how they can help guide children's ethical lives using everyday situations at home, at school, in social settings and in the world at large.
Participants will learn:
· The overall concept of ethics and the reasons why it is important to teach children and teens to think and act ethically
· Deterrents that can impair the ability for adults and children to act ethically, including hating, hoarding and harming
· Strategies for helping children and teens understand their choices and their ability to make ethical decisions
The event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement, Anoka County Child Abuse Prevention Council and Connexus Energy.
The workshop for professionals who work with children is Tuesday, April 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Blvd. N.W., Ramsey. The cost of this event is $25 with certificates of attendance available. Download the registration form in the district's online document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter. Click on the "Backpack Online" folder.
The workshop for parents is Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka. This event is free. Call 763-433-4145 to register.
For more information, contact Donna McDonald, Violence Prevention coordinator - Anoka County Community Health Department, at 763-422-7047 or at: donna.mcdonald@co.anoka.mn.us.
4. Raising awareness of youth homelessness in our communities workshop April 30
The following event is sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin Student Services Department.
According to Wilder Research 2006, on any given night Minnesota has more than 550 homeless youth. Could one of these 550 be a youth you work with?
The public is invited to attend a free workshop on raising awareness of youth homelessness on Wednesday, April 30 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka. The workshop will address how youth homelessness impacts schools and communities. Participants will leave with information about what support and resources are available in the community to assist youth who are homeless.
To register for the workshop, contact Ann Heath at: Ann.Heath@anoka.k12.mn.us or at 763-506-1183.
5. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 6 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19998.
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure).
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem.
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
6. Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk May 3
The public is invited to participate in the Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, May 3. The race begins at 8:30 a.m. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go toward a scholarship that benefits Crossroads Alternative High School at-risk youth.
Randy began working for the Anoka-Hennepin School District in 1999 and was a beloved high school science teacher at Crossroads, where he taught at-risk youth. Randy was also an enthusiastic runner, an outdoor adventurer and a lover of life. In 2003, Randy received an Anoka-Hennepin Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) award. TOP teachers are nominated by students, parents, staff and community members.
In 2004, a routine scan and subsequent biopsy indicated he had renal cell carcinoma. Randy didn't let his illness deny him the joy of life's every moment. He trained and completed his 19th Grandma's Marathon in 2005. Randy passed away on Aug. 29, 2007.
The cost to participate in the event is $20 (if registration is completed before April 26) and $25 the day of the event. The race will start and end at Crossroads Alternative High School in Coon Rapids. Participants can register online at: www.randybauermemorial5k.com.
For more information, contact Dennis Olson at 612-868-1333. Crossroads Alternative High School is located at 1313 Coon Rapids Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
7. Champlin Park students create artwork for Champlin Elementary School
Two Champlin Park High School sisters, Kat Chelstrom (junior) and Halie Chelstrom (sophomore), created artwork in February that features the redesigned Champlin Elementary School chipmunk for display in the school.
Both girls are former Champlin Elementary students, said Principal Neil Klund-Schubert. The artwork was painted on plywood and is on display in the school. Artist Christian Grooms, who is the brother of Champlin fifth-grade teacher Jennifer Grooms, designed the new logo.
A photo of the artwork by the Chelstrom sisters is available to view online in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=20218.
Elementary School News and Events:
8. Mississippi Elementary School "Kids Against Hunger" event April 30
On Wednesday, April 30, Mississippi Elementary School will host a "Kids Against Hunger" event from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mississippi students and staff will packaging food to be sent to either Haiti or Africa to feed starving children. The public is invited to come and assist with the packaging.
The event will provide a hands-on, concrete way, for students to see how they can make a difference in the lives of starving children. The event will also feature two speakers from Haiti and the Dominican Republic who will speak about their respective lives and travels.
For more information, visit: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=144276&itemID=19848 or contact Twyla George, Mississippi social worker, at 763-506-3580.
Mississippi Elementary School is located at 10620 Direct River Dr. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
9. Andover Elementary School showcase May 1
The public is invited to attend Andover Elementary School's annual showcase on Thursday, May 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will feature a food drive collection, student artwork, an ice cream social, media, music and physical education demonstrations, T-shirt printing, technology and multimedia presentations and volunteer appreciation.
Andover Elementary School is located at 14950 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
10. Morris Bye Elementary School science fair May 6
The public is invited to attend Morris Bye Elementary Schools science fair on Tuesday, May 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The fair will feature projects from Morris Bye third, fourth and fifth graders.
Morris Bye Elementary School is located at 11931 Crooked Lake Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
11. Ramsey Elementary School annual fine arts night May 8
The public is invited to attend Ramsey Elementary School's annual fine arts night on Thursday, May 8 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The event will feature an all-school art show in which each student will contribute two, 2D pieces of art and one sculpture or clay artwork.
The event will also feature a book fair, an ice cream social, third grade family folk dance, face painting, roaming artists, photo props (bring a camera) technology demonstrations and the "People's Choice" award.
Ramsey Elementary School is located at 15000 Nowthen Blvd. in Ramsey.
12. Oxbow Creek Elementary School Art of Spring celebration May 13
The public is invited to attend Oxbow Creek Elementary School's Art of
Spring celebration on Tuesday, May 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event
combines the school's art fair and music program and will feature
student artwork and performances.
Oxbow Creek is located at 6505 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
13. Public invited to elementary school "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools have been named Schools of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association.
Johnsville Elementary in Blaine and Oxbow Creek Elementary in Champlin were among eight schools statewide to achieve the seven-year designation this year. Since MESPA began giving out the award in 1986, only two Anoka-Hennepin schools have achieved the honor: Andover Elementary in 1993 and McKinley Elementary in 1996.
Johnsville's celebration was March 26. Oxbow Creek will hold a celebration in conjunction with track and field day on May 14 from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. outside the school, 6505 109th Ave. N., Champlin. The public is invited to attend the remaining celebration.
Click on the following link to read the entire article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19945.
14. Retirement open house for Johnsville Elementary School principal June 2
The public is invited to attend an open house in honor of Principal Patrick Murray's retirement on Monday, June 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Johnsville Parent Teacher Organizaton (PTO). Johnsville is located at 991 125th Ave N.E. in Blaine.
15. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
16. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
17. Johnsville Elementary School students celebrate 100 days of school with special visit
Each year students at Johnsville Elementary School celebrate the 100th day of school in many different ways. Some classes have students bring 100 "things" to school to show what 100 looks like. Some bring 100 pennies, others bring 100 paper clips, and some even bring 100 treats to share with friends.
For Alana Mahoney in Scott Zachmann's fourth grade class, it was an opportunity to bring her 100-year-old great grandmother, Nana, to school. Mrs. Marino, affectionately known to her family as Nana, arrived at the school and immediately became a celebrity, said Principal Pat Murray.
Students asked Nana questions about what it was like over those 100 years. Nana told students about seeing an airplane fly overhead for the first time. Upon hearing the airplane, her uncle told her what is was. At that point, Nana hadn't heard of an airplane before. As it approached her house, she immediately ran into her house and hid under her bed, as it was scary and loud!
As part of a reading and writing lesson, Mr. Zachmann had the students prepare a number of interesting questions for Nana, who turned 101 in March.
"She was the perfect celebrity and answered all of their many questions," said Murray. "What a wonderful way for our students to celebrate 100 days of school. Having Mrs. Marino visit our school was truly one of the greatest and grandest 100 days of school for our students. Hearing her stories about her life spanning those 100 years helped students understand how far our world has come and how far it will be able to go in the students' lifetime."
Nana was accompanied by her daughter, Mrs. Kibler (Alana's grandmother) and Mrs. Mahoney (Alana's mother and Mrs. Marino's granddaughter). The event brought together four generations ranging from 10 to 100 years of age.
The guest of honor was still excited as she waved good-bye to the students at the end of her visit It was a great day for Johnsville's students, said Murray.
Middle School News and Events:
18. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Wizard of Oz" in April and May
The public is invited to attend Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts production of "The Wizard of Oz."
L. Frank Baum's magical story of "The Wizard of Oz" will come to life on stage in Anne Coulter Marten's faithful stage adaptation. This production is not the MGM Musical version, but instead one that follows more closely Baum's original book. The production is directed by Jefferson Fietek. Costumes are designed by Deb Murphy with lighting design by Stirling Callander.
Dorothy, a young girl in Kansas, is swept away during a cyclone and lands in a magical land named Oz. During her adventure to find her way back to Kansas, she befriends three delightful characters; a scarecrow, a man made of tin and a lion. While trying to solve the mystery of "how to get home," she must also confront the evil Wicked Witch of the West.The Witch will stop at nothing to avenge the death of her sister, inadvertently crushed by Dorothy's falling house!
Performances are as follows:
Friday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. (ASL interpreted)
Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students. Seating is reserved. To order tickets, call 763-506-FMMS (3667). Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
19. Jackson Middle School annual arts and academic expo April 29, 30 and May 1
The public is invited to attend Jackson Middle School's annual arts and academic expo April 29, 30 and May 1. The event will feature outstanding works from hundreds of Jackson students, as well as live performances by student musicians.
The expo is open during the school day and Tuesday, April 29 and Thursday, May 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. Jackson Middle School is located at 6000 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
20. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
The Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts art department invites the public to attend its annual spring art show, which will run from now until May 30. The show will feature artwork from students in the school's gallery.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/fmms or call 763-506-5000. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
High School News and Events:
21. Upcoming high school concerts
Listed below are dates and times for upcoming high school orchestra, band and choir concerts. Additional school dates and times will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
Tuesday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. (orchestra)
Thursday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. (band)
Monday, May 19 at 7:30 p.m. (choir)
Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
22. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater spring productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
"My Fair Lady"
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m.
Andover High School theater students will perform the 1956 Broadway smash hit, "My Fair Lady." The musical, with book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, is based upon George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion." In it, a misogynistic and snobbish phonetics professor agrees to a wager that he can take a flower girl and make her presentable in high society.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $6 for K-12 students and senior citizens. For tickets, call 763-506-8491 or visit: www.andovertheatre.org. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
Anoka High School
"High School Musical"
Friday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.
Thursday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Disney Channel's smash hit musical comes to life on stage! "High School Musical" is the irresistible story of two teenagers - Troy Bolton, super-popular captain of the basketball team, and Gabriella Montez, super-smart transfer student and a genius in science class - who try to navigate the tricky currents of peer pressure to follow their dreams and score the leads in the big school show. Don't miss this international sensation!
Ticket prices for adults are $10 for reserved tickets and $8 for general admission balcony tickets. Ticket prices for students and senior citizens are $5 for reserved tickets and $4 for balcony tickets.
Call 763-506-6439 (Monday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m.) for more information. Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
Blaine High School
"Beauty and the Beast"
Friday, April 25 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, April 26 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7 p.m. (ASL Performance)
Saturday, May 3 at 7 p.m.
Ticket prices for reserved tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free. Call 763-506-6666 for reservations. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
Coon Rapids High School
"Grease"
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. (ASL Performance)
Saturday, May 3 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $8 for adults. Call 763-506-7291 or go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/crhstheatre to reserve your tickets. Reservations are recommended. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
College and Career Planning Events:
23. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
24. ACT prep course available for high school students April 26 through June 7
Is your child looking to prepare for the ACT exam in June? If so, consider enrolling them in Kaplan's ACT prep course, which meets on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. if it's a practice test) and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. at Blaine High School. See below for the complete schedule.
Course schedule:
1 - Practice test one (diagnostic), April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2 - English, reading, math and science, April 29 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
3 - English, math, science and strategy, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
4 - Reading, math, writing and strategy, May 6 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
5 - Practice test two, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
6 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
7 - English, reading, math and strategy, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
8 - Practice test three, May 20 from 5 to 9 p.m.
9 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
10 - English, writing, math and science, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
11 - Practice test four, June 5 from to 9 p.m.
12 - All five subject areas and strategy, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Anoka-Hennepin students can register for the course at the discounted price of $499 (regularly $699) by calling 1-800-KAP-TEST or going to: www.kaptest.com/act. Use the following code for the discount: ACMS8015. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
25. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
The ACT condensed course, "ACT Express" will be available to Anoka-Hennepin high school students just prior to the June 14 ACT test, at the reduced price of $199 (regularly $299).
The 12-hour course includes instruction, test-taking strategies and skills review. The cost includes course, diagnostic exam and book. The course will be offered at Coon Rapids High School at the following times:
Diagnostic exam on May 14 at 3 p.m.
Follow-up class May 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Call 1-800-KAP-TEST or go to: www.kaptest.com/act to enroll or for more information. Be sure to use the following code to receive the Anoka-Hennepin discount: AXMS8002. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
26. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
Minnesota Private Colleges Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email: colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
27. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
COLLEGE PLANNING WORKSHOP
With the cost of a four-year college exceeding $100,000, scholarships seem more attractive than ever. Yet, few parents and students know where to start. Don't miss these valuable learning opportunities.
How to Get into and Pay for College
College costs are escalating rapidly. Knowledge and planning are critical to avoiding mistakes! Learn how to select the right college, and make your student more attractive to colleges. Financial topics include: reducing college costs; obtaining grants; minimizing debt and loans; myths about colleges and college aid; and how FASFA and college aid work. Material is appropriate for any family with children in high school or community college. Class fee: $19 per family.
· Wednesday, April 23 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center; 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8163
Student Success:
28. Middle and high school students place at regional and state science fairs
Anoka-Hennepin middle and high school students were big winners at the recent Central Minnesota Regional Science Fair and state science fair.
Central Minnesota Regional Science Fair
A total of 25 Anoka-Hennepin students won awards at the Central Minnesota Regional Science Fair on Feb. 23, including awards from the U.S. Department of Health, the Navy Award and the Association for Women Geoscientists. Many students who competed at the regional event also participated in the district's STEM Fair in January.
Three students from Coon Rapids High School were selected at the regional fair to compete in the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), held May 11 through 17 in Atlanta, Ga., without having to first compete at the state level. Most students get to the national event by winning at the state event.
ISEF is the world's largest pre-college celebration of science. Held annually in May, ISEF unites 1,200 students from approximately 40 nations to compete for scholarships, tuition grants, internships, scientific field trips and the grand prize of a $50,000 college scholarship.
State Science Fair
Anoka-Hennepin students also participated in the 71st annual state science fair on March 30 through April 1 at the Crowne Plaza in St. Paul. A total of 28 district students and one staff member won awards, including awards for best projects using chemistry, top 10 percent of junior high projects and best project using computer science. Three additional students were chosen as alternates for the ISEF in May. Over the past six years, the district has sent annually one to three students to ISEF.
ANOKA-HENNEPIN REGIONAL SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS
Names with an asterick indicate students competing in the ISEF.
ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
Amina Bensami, grade nine, American Psycholical Society Award
BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL
Alyssa Brezinsky, grade nine, In Vitro Biology Award
CHAMPLIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL
Nathan Bell, grade 10, Navy Award
Matt Carlson, grade 10, Material Science Association Award
Atma Persaud, grade 11, Navy Award
Dylan Rzeszutek, grade 10, Material Science Association Award
Haley Rorvick, grade 9, Navy Award
Kathleen Trescony, grade 10, NOAA Award
Mackenzie Yurek, grade 10, NOAA Award
COON RAPIDS HIGH SCHOOL
*Audrey Bennet, grade 12, Hubert Hoover Award, ISEF Award
Eric Erfanian, grade 12, Ricoh Award, U.S. Army Award
*Danielle Erhard, grade 12, Hubert Hoover Award, ISEF Award
Anna Hansen, grade nine, Association for Women Geoscientists Award
Sonja Helgeson, grade nine, Association for Women Geoscientists Award
*Joel Knighton, grade nine, Navy Award, MU Alpha Theta Mathematics Club Award, ISEF Award
COON RAPIDS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Sara Kleba, grade seven, Young Scientist Award
Laura Nelson, grade eight, U.S. Department of Health Award
James Flood, grade eight, American Meteorological Society Award
JACKSON MIDDLE SCHOOL
Adeel Ahmed, grade seven, Stockholm Jr. Water Prize Award
Cydney Cassem, grade seven, Young Scientist Award
Mary Haasl, grade eight, Young Scientist Award, Stockholm Jr. Water Prize Award, U.S. Metric Association Award
Tyler Lemke, grade eight, Navy Award
Greg Martinetti, grade eight, Young Scientist Award
Gabe Miller, grade six, Young Scientist Award
*Avin Persaud, grade eight, Young Scientist Award, ISEF Alternate
Ainsley Peterson, grade six, Young Scientist Award
ANOKA-HENNEPIN STATE SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS
Names with an asterick indicate students competing in the ISEF.
ANOKA HIGH SCHOOL
Tony Busch, grade nine, state fair medalist (bronze)
Jon Nelson, grade nine, state fair medalist (bronze)
CHAMPLIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL
Carin Crego, grade 10, Ecolab Food Safety Award ($700)
Amanda Dvorak, grade 10, Ecolab Food Safety Award ($700)
Laura Lomauro, grade nine, state fair medalist (gold)
*Atma Persaud, grade 11, ISEF Alternate
Karin Sather, grade nine, state fair medalist (bronze)
COON RAPIDS HIGH SCHOOL
*Audrey Bennet, grade 12, Winona State University Department of Math and Statistics Award ($100), Department of the Army Award ($50 savings bond)
*Brianna Droubie, grade nine, ISEF Alternate
*Danielle Erhard, grade 12, Winona State University Department of Math and Statistics Award ($100), Department of the Army Award ($50 savings bond)
*Jill Halin, grade nine, ISEF Alternate
*Joel Knighton, grade nine, National Society of Engineers - Innovative Engineering Award, Intel Excellence in Computer Science Award ($200), Minnesota Academy of Science Winchell Award runner-up
Angie Ton, grade 12, Pentair Foundation Award, second place ($250)
COON RAPIDS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Sara Kleba, grade seven, state fair medalist (bronze)
Raymond Twumasi, grade seven, Naval Science Awards - Honorable Mention
Leila Youakim (teacher), Seagate Mentor Award Winner ($1,000 and disk drive for teacher; $1,000 for school)
JACKSON MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mary Haasl, grade seven, state fair medalist (bronze)
Colin Hortman, grade seven, 3M Innovatoin Award ($500)
Anne Perkins, grade seven, Discovery Educators Young Scientist Challenge Award, Seagate First Year Award, state fair medalist (silver)
Jessi Sterry, grade seven, Discovery Educators Young Scientist Challenge Award, Seagate First Year Award, state fair medalist (silver)
Noah Yurek, grade seven, American Chemical Society Award, runner-up (ChemMatters subscription)
View photos, medalists and special award winners of the Anoka-Hennepin January STEM Fair in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19771.
Community Education News and Events:
29. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
30. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
Exciting and enriching classes are calling your name! Get in shape, explore your crafty side or discover a new language. The spring Adult Class catalog is full of learning opportunities just for you. Check out all of the classes online at: http://www.discovercommunityed.com. Below are a few upcoming classes you won't want to miss.
ORGANIC LAWN CARE
Learn how to care for your lawn, garden, and landscape without using toxic chemicals! Find out what to do, when to do it, and where to get supplies and services. Discover the secrets to organic weed control. Class fee: $19.
· Thursday, April 24 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Staff Development Center; 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8
LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY
Find beauty in the lens of your camera! Learn how the meter in the camera works and what can fool it. This is a hands-on class with one classroom session and three area field trips. Instructor: Paul Veronikas. Class fee: $59
· Thursdays, April 24 through May 15 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center; 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7321
MOSAIC BIRDBATH
Create a unique birdbath made from terra cotta and mosaic tiles. If you love the inspired and the beautiful, this class is for you! Supply fee of $20 paid to instructor Peggy Decker at class. Class fee: $25.
· Thursday, April 24 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Oak View Middle School; 15400 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7541
GOLF GETTING STARTED
Your friends play golf and you want to join a league, so get ready to take up this popular participation sport. Come learn what the game is about, which clubs you'll really need, and basic rules. Bring a 9-iron, or use one provided. Best for those (nearly) new to the game. Instructor: Ron Way. Class fee: $25.
· Saturday, April 26 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Northdale Middle School; 11301 Dogwood St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7563
VIDEO YOUR SWING
See your golf swing on video! Dr. Golf critiques your set-up and swing in detail and coaches on simple adjustments that can improve your game. Plus, your swing speed will be radar-timed. Bring your driver and 7-iron and $12 if you want a personalized "lesson" tape. Limited class size. Instructor: Ron Way. Class fee: $25.
· Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Northdale Middle School; 11301 Dogwood St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7568
FISH TWIN CITIES LAKES
Discover the best fishing lakes in the Twin Cities. Learn the three magic words (and proven techniques) to put fish in the boat, tips for fishing monster bass and tackle box must-haves. Take home lures, maps and more. Children age 14+ welcome to register and attend with a parent. Instructor Sybil Smith is the author of Twin Cities Fishing Guide, Brainerd-Mille Lacs Fishing Guide and Twin Cities Shore Fishing Maps. Class fee: $29.
· Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Roosevelt Middle School; 650 125th Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7491
NAVIGATING WITH A GPS
Global Positioning System, or GPS has changed navigation forever. Come experience this amazing technology for yourself. In this hands-on class you will learn how to operate a GPS receiver, and get an introduction to the treasure-hunting fun called Geocaching. A Garmin ETrex GPS unit will be available for each participant. Class held rain or shine; come dressed for the weather! Class fee: $39 individual; $49 couple/friend.
· Tuesdays, April 29 through May 6 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Oxbow Creek Elementary School; 6505 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7494
TENNIS
Whether you're a novice or just learning the game, this class is for you! Instructor will cover forehand, backhand, serving, singles and doubles play. Bring a racquet and can of tennis balls. Class meets indoors during bad weather. Class fee: $39.
· Wednesdays, April 30 thorough May 21 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Northdale Middle School; 11301 Dogwood St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7560
MOTHER/DAUGHTER DAY WITH HORSES
Mothers and daughters (age 11+) are invited for a day of learning and riding. Start in the corral learning about horses and riding, then split into groups for both trail and arena riding. Class fee: $99 per mother/daughter pair.
· Saturday, May 3 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Roselawn Stables; directions mailed to participants one week before class.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8684
SHADE CONTAINER GARDENING
Create a beautiful container garden that will flourish in the shade! Learn how to add color and beauty to your shaded areas. Supply fee of $20 paid at class. Class fee: $19.
· Saturday, May 3 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Mickman Brothers Garden Center in Ham Lake.
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7538
31. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers day and evening classes for adults who want to earn a diploma by earning a GED or completing course work in the Adult Diploma program. Call 763-783-4870 for enrollment information. All classes are free!
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Volunteers are needed to assist adult students working on their English, reading, math or work skills. Call 763-783-4920 to talk with Metro North ABE's volunteer coordinator. Training is provided. Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
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Backpack Online #23 - Independent auditors give district high marks, dictionaries distributed to Anoka-Hennepin third graders and taking power from bullies at Oak View Middle School. |
Upcoming Events:
1. School House Rocks teacher talent show April 11
2. Adams Elementary School annual carnival April 12
3. April is Autism Awareness Month: Community Education to sponsor the play "Autistic License" April 12
General News and Events:
4. Early Childhood Special Education "Spring Family Fund Day" April 19
5. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
6. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
7. Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk May 3
8. Independent auditors give district high marks
9. Graduate Spotlight: Briana Scurry, Anoka High School
Elementary School News and Events:
10. Mississippi Elementary School "Kids Against Hunger" event April 30
11. Ramsey Elementary School annual fine arts night May 8
12. Public invited to elementary "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
13. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
14. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
15. Andover Elementary School student artwork selected for display at the Perpich Center for the Arts
16. Dictionaries distributed to Anoka-Hennepin third-graders
Middle School News and Events:
17. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Wizard of Oz" in April and May
18. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
19. Jackson Middle School students take pictures of Mars
20. Taking power from bullies at Oak View Middle School
High School News and Events:
21. Upcoming high school theater productions
College and Career Planning Events:
22. High school career centers open to the public (link)
23. ACT prep course available for high school students April 26 through June 7
24. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
25. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
26. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
Community Education News and Events:
27. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
28. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
29. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Reaching Out:
30. Northdale Middle School students help to make a difference
Upcoming Events:
1. School House Rocks teacher talent show April 11
The public is invited to see Anoka-Hennepin teachers "rock the house" in the third annual School House Rocks event, "The School House Rocks - an X-treme teacher variety show." The event is sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Education Minnesota (AHEM), and will be held at Coon Rapids High School in the auditorium on Friday, April 11 at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets are available at the door or by calling the Anoka-Hennepin Education Minnesota (AHEM) office at 763-421-9110.
Proceeds will go to student scholarships and the AHEF Chance Fund for students who need assistance with activity fees.
Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
2. Adams Elementary School annual carnival April 12
The public is invited to attend Adams Elementary School's annual carnival on Saturday, April 12 from 11 to 3 p.m. at the school. The event will feature a cake walk, raffle, games, food, a silent auction, bingo and more! Most games cost $.50. Tickets are four for $1 and are available at the door.
In 1992, the late Dr. Don Rautio, (principal at Adams from 1984 to 1997) collaborated with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Minnesota Department of Education and the city of Coon Rapids to build the Adams Environment Trail. Students now walk the trail four times a year. Proceeds from the event will go to support this tradition and Adams environmental education, said Principal Elizabeth "Libby" White.
"Over the years, thousands of students have benefited from Dr. Rautio's passion for the environment," said White. "The Adams Parents Advisory Council (PAC) continues to support this program. The school is grateful and appreciates any support the community can offer to keep this tradition going strong."
Adams Elementary is located at 8989 Sycamore St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
3. April is Autism Awareness Month: Community Education to sponsor the play "Autistic License" April 12
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Community Education. The public is encouraged to attend.
April is Autism Awareness Month. Autism is the fastest growing epidemic in the country. Nationally, one in 150 children are diagnosed with it. In Minnesota, it is even higher: one in 105 - the third highest rate in the country.
To bring awareness of autism to the community, Anoka-Hennepin Community Education is sponsoring the play "Autistic License," written by Stacey Dinner-Levin, on Saturday, April 12 at the Anoka High School auditorium at 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
The play is based upon Dinner-Levin and her husband's experience of raising a child with autism. It was named one of the "10 Best Plays of 2007" by the Pioneer Press and was recently honored with a nomination for the national "Theater Critics New Play Award."
Admission is free to the performance, but donations to support this outreach project are welcomed. Call the Illusion Theater box office at 612-339-4944 or visit: http://www.illusiontheater.org to reserve seats.
This play is most appropriate for adults and children over 13 years old. Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
General News and Events:
4. Early Childhood Special Education "Spring Family Fund Day" April 19
The Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Special Education program will host its "Spring Family Fun Day" on Saturday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center, 2740 Wingfield Ave. N. in Anoka.
The event will feature games, healthy snacks, a book fair, a silent auction and more. The event is geared toward preschoolers and families, but is open to the public. Call 763-506-1450 for more information.
5. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement. There are two sessions: one for professionals who work with children and one for parents.
In a world where children are often given the message that the ends justify the means; where harmful even violent behavior goes unnoticed; where children's ethical education can come from a T-shirt slogan, an Internet site or the evening news, the "Just because it's not wrong doesn't make it right" workshop is an essential tool for professionals who work with children and parents.
In this workshop with the internationally renowned author, Barbara Coloroso, participants will find out how they can help guide children's ethical lives using everyday situations at home, at school, in social settings and in the world at large.
Participants will learn:
• The overall concept of ethics and the reasons why it is important to teach children and teens to think and act ethically
• Deterrents that can impair the ability for adults and children to act ethically, including hating, hoarding and harming
• Strategies for helping children and teens understand their choices and their ability to make ethical decisions
The event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement, Anoka County Child Abuse Prevention Council and Connexus Energy.
The workshop for professionals who work with children is Tuesday, April 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Blvd. N.W., Ramsey. The cost of this event is $25 with certificates of attendance available. Download the registration form in the district's online document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter. Click on the "Backpack Online" folder.
The workshop for parents is Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka. This event is free. Call 763-433-4145 to register.
For more information, contact Donna McDonald, Violence Prevention coordinator - Anoka County Community Health Department, at 763-422-7047 or at: donna.mcdonald@co.anoka.mn.us.
6. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 6 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19998.
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
7. Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk May 3
The public is invited to participate in the Randy Bauer Memorial 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, May 3. The race begins at 8:30 a.m. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go toward a scholarship that benefits Crossroads Alternative High School at-risk youth.
Randy began working for the Anoka-Hennepin School District in 1999 and was a beloved high school science teacher at Crossroads, where he taught at-risk youth. Randy was also an enthusiastic runner, an outdoor adventurer and a lover of life. In 2003, Randy received an Anoka-Hennepin Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) award. TOP teachers are nominated by students, parents, staff and community members.
In 2004, a routine scan and subsequent biopsy indicated he had renal cell carcinoma. Randy didn't let his illness deny him the joy of life's every moment. He trained and completed his 19th Grandma's Marathon in 2005. Randy passed away on Aug. 29, 2007.
The cost to participate in the event is $20 (if registration is completed before April 26) and $25 the day of the event. The race will start and end at Crossroads Alternative High School in Coon Rapids. Participants can register online at: www.randybauermemorial5k.com.
For more information, contact Dennis Olson at 612-868-1333. Crossroads Alternative High School is located at 1313 Coon Rapids Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
8. Independent auditors give district high marks
The independent audit firm which scrutinizes Anoka-Hennepin School District's financial records each year gave the School Board another good report in January. After the audit team from Deloitte and Touche LLP completed their work for the 2006-07 school year, auditor Kirstin Vosen issued an "unqualified" opinion. "This is the highest, cleanest opinion the district can get … It's a good result at the end of the day," she said.
The auditors noted that the percentage of the district's revenue from the state decreased from 57 percent of total revenues in fiscal year 2006 to 53 percent last year. At the same time, property tax revenue went from 7 percent to 12 percent. Expenditures were consistent with the previous year, with 75 percent spent on instruction-related expenses, 12 percent on pupil support services, 4 percent on Community Education and 3 percent on district and school administration each of the last two years. The portion spent on district support services dropped from 4 percent to 3 percent.
In addition auditors pointed out a decrease in the fund balance as a percent of total expenditures from 6.5 percent in 2006 to 4.6 percent in 2007. The district's net bonded debt per capita, which is borrowing for voter-approved building construction and renovation, also decreased from $667 in 2006 to $584 in 2007 and compares favorably with the state median of $1,694 in 2006.
"We are always pleased with the tone at the top - do things right," said Vosen in summarizing the district's strengths and challenges. Other strengths are an experienced and knowledgeable management team, multiyear financial forecasting, Moody's bond rating of Aa2, a string of financial reporting awards from the Association of School Business Officials, the ability of the district to continue providing above-average metro programs at below-average state and metro costs, voter approval of additional referendum levy funding, board policies and positions, and outstanding growth in the market value of taxable property over the past five years.
Among the challenges the district is dealing with, according to Vosen, include an uncertain political environment concerning state aid and property tax reforms, district infrastructure and technology replacement needs, declining enrollment, increasingly diverse and mobile population, rising health care costs, and succession planning to replace an aging management team.
The district's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report is available in the Business Services Department section of the district Web site, www.anoka.k12.mn.us.
9. Graduate Spotlight: Briana Scurry, Anoka High School
Briana Scurry: in the goal for the long haul to China
When Anoka-Hennepin district residents watch the Beijing Olympics, they will be watching one of their own: Dayton native Briana Scurry. She will be tending goal for the U.S. Olympic team, her fourth appearance at the Olympics. She was a member of the 2000 and 2004 gold medal-winning squads.
"It's going to be a lot of fun," she said. "Every Olympics is different. It's amazing to be among 10,000 of the best athletes on Earth."
When Briana Scurry was growing up in Dayton, there wasn't a girls' soccer team. So she played with the boys, but the coach was worried about her.
"They thought the goal was a safe place for a girl," Scurry said. Goalkeeper is widely considered one of the most dangerous positions on the field.
The next year, she played on the field and in the goal for a Brooklyn Park girls team. By the time she was 16 and 17 years old, goalkeeper was her specialty.
"Usually they had two players trade off on goal, but one of the girls didn't want to, so I took over the goal," she said.
It seems that it was just the position she was meant to play. "It always appealed to me and I didn't always understand why," Scurry said. "I think it's because I can make an impact on the game. If I could stop a goal, we could at least get a tie."
Scurry and two other girls were the first ninth-graders to play on the Anoka High School soccer team, back when the school was grades 10-12 and ninth-graders weren't allowed on the high school team, no matter how good they were.
"We petitioned to be allowed to play," she said. "So I played four years at a time most people only did three. At that time the team hadn't won for a long time, so what did they have to lose by bringing us in?"
In the case of Scurry, it was certainly the school's gain - she graduated as an All-American goalkeeper and the team won the state tournament in 1989. She also played three years of basketball and was on the All-State team her senior year. She had several scholarship opportunities, but her best scholarship was an offer to play soccer for the University of Massachusetts.
"I figured I'd pick the better one," she said. Coming from a family of nine, "I knew I had to get a good scholarship."
At UMass, she was named an All-American her senior year and National College Goalkeeper of the year. Following the NCAA championship game, she was asked to attend the national team camp by then-national coach Anson Dorrance, the University of North Carolina soccer coach.
Scurry began her national career with a bang, recorded a shutout against Portugal during the Algarve Cup in 1994. She was the starting goalkeeper for the U.S. National team from 1994-2000 and from 2003-2004. From 2001-2003 she played for the Atlanta Beat.
She was part of the World Cup team that won the championship game against China in 1999, which catapulted the national team members to popularity.
During her career, she has started more than three times as many games for the national team as any other goalkeeper - more than 170 games.
Her most memorable time as a member of the national team was the 2004 Olympics in Athens. "Not a whole lot of people thought we could do it, because we were aging," Scurry said. "It was a hard run for many of us."
Scurry had a personal weight at the games - her father died in June of that year and the games began in August. She felt that during the games, her father was watching her.
As one of the senior members of the national team, she feels like she's come full circle from when she came to camp in 1995, and shared the field with her soccer heroes. Now, she said, there are girls at the team camp who have posters of her.
Scurry is happy to be a role model for younger players, and is always proud when she talks about Dayton and Minnesota. Her mother still lives in Dayton, and three of her sisters are in Minnesota.
"I do very much enjoy being a role model for my tiny little town," Scurry said. "I think it's pretty cool I've been able to represent and do my high school proud."
Elementary School News and Events:
10. Mississippi Elementary School "Kids Against Hunger" event April 30
On Wednesday, April 30, Mississippi Elementary School will host a "Kids Against Hunger" event from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mississippi students and staff will packaging food to be sent to either Haiti or Africa to feed starving children. The public is invited to come and assist with the packaging.
The event will provide a hands-on, concrete way, for students to see how they can make a difference in the lives of starving children. The event will also feature two speakers from Haiti and the Dominican Republic who will speak about their respective lives and travels.
For more information, visit: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=144276&itemID=19848 or contact Twyla George, Mississippi social worker, at 763-506-3580.
Mississippi Elementary School is located at 10620 Direct River Dr. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
11. Ramsey Elementary School annual fine arts night May 8
The public is invited to attend Ramsey Elementary School's annual fine arts night on Thursday, May 8 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The event will feature an all-school art show in which each student will contribute two, 2D pieces of art and one sculpture or clay artwork.
The event will also feature a book fair, an ice cream social, third grade family folk dance, face painting, roaming artists, photo props (bring a camera) technology demonstrations and the "People's Choice" award.
Ramsey Elementary School is located at 15000 Nowthen Blvd. in Ramsey.
12. Public invited to elementary school "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools have been named Schools of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association.
Johnsville Elementary in Blaine and Oxbow Creek Elementary in Champlin were among eight schools statewide to achieve the seven-year designation this year. Since MESPA began giving out the award in 1986, only two Anoka-Hennepin schools have achieved the honor: Andover Elementary in 1993 and McKinley Elementary in 1996.
Johnsville's celebration was March 26. Oxbow Creek will hold a celebration in conjunction with track and field day on May 14 from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. outside the school, 6505 109th Ave. N., Champlin. The public is invited to attend the remaining celebration.
Click on the following link to read the entire article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19945.
13. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
14. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
15. Andover Elementary School students artwork selected for display at the Perpich Center for the Arts
The artwork of Andover Elementary School students Benjamin Fellerman, Bradley Heitschmidt, Natalie Koerbitz and Emily Perrin was selected to represent the school at the Perpich Center for the Arts Education fifth annual middle school exhibition in Golden Valley on March 16. The exhibit consisted of works from students in grades five through nine from schools throughout the state. There was an open house and reception for students, families and teachers to recognize the students' efforts.
Andover student artwork was also selected from students Matthew Blake, Nathaniel Hamling,
Emma Krom and Mariah Wills to represent the school at the Art Educators of Minnesota annual art show at the state capitol. An open house was held on Feb. 24 to recognize the students, their families and teachers. The artwork was on display through March 1 in observance of Youth Art Month.
Click on the following link to view samples of the selected artwork in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=20161.
16. Dictionaries distributed to Anoka-Hennepin third-graders
Third-graders in the Anoka-Hennepin School District now have inside knowledge of the English language: the longest word is 1,909 letters long. And if they need to know how to spell it, they can refer to their new dictionaries.
Members of the Anoka, Blaine-Ham Lake, Coon Rapids and Ramsey Rotary clubs and the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation presented dictionaries to third-grade students throughout the district recently. The group raised funds for more than 3,000 dictionaries this year.
Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation Director Barb Winfield asked the students at Hamilton Elementary to write their names and the date inside the books, so that someday they will look back and remember their time at the school.
Third-grade teacher Terri McCarthy said that for some students, "this is the first book they've ever received."
The dictionaries also include 200 pages of reference materials, including maps, measures, presidents, biographies, information about the 50 states, planet and the Constitution.
The dictionary project is part of the National Dictionary Project of Charleston, S.C., a non-profit organization devote to providing dictionaries to students in the U.S. and overseas.
Middle School News and Events:
17. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Wizard of Oz" in April and May
The public is invited to attend Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts production of "The Wizard of Oz."
L. Frank Baum's magical story of "The Wizard of Oz" will come to life on stage in Anne Coulter Marten's faithful stage adaptation. This production is not the MGM Musical version, but instead one that follows more closely Baum's original book. The production is directed by Jefferson Fietek. Costumes are designed by Deb Murphy with lighting design by Stirling Callander.
Dorothy, a young girl in Kansas, is swept away during a cyclone and lands in a magical land named Oz. During her adventure to find her way back to Kansas, she befriends three delightful characters; a scarecrow, a man made of tin and a lion. While trying to solve the mystery of "how to get home," she must also confront the evil Wicked Witch of the West.The Witch will stop at nothing to avenge the death of her sister, inadvertently crushed by Dorothy's falling house!
Performances are as follows:
Friday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. (ASL interpreted)
Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students. Seating is reserved. To order tickets, call 763-506-FMMS (3667). Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
18. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts spring art show through May 30
The Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts art department invites the public to attend its annual spring art show, which will run from now until May 30. The show will feature artwork from students in the school's gallery.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/fmms or call 763-506-5000. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka.
19. Jackson Middle School students take pictures of Mars
Jackson Middle School astronomy students aren't content to gaze at the moon. They want to look at Mars and explain it too.
Carla-Rae Smith's eighth-grade astronomy class has been submitting scientific proposals to NASA for two years as part of the Mars Student Imaging Project (MSIP), which uses the Mars Odyssey spacecraft's Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) camera.
Students examine a phenomenon on Mars - craters, for example - and create a scientific question about that feature. Then they write a proposal, including the specific coordinates on Mars they want to photograph, and send it to NASA.
In the two years she has taught the class, Smith's students have a 100 percent acceptance rate - a total of nine proposals. After the proposals are accepted, students program the satellite to photograph the area of Mars that will help them answer their question.
"These are things that college and high school kids do," Smith said. "These kids work so hard, it's amazing. Kids can say they wrote a proposal to do independent research using a Martian satellite."
One of the groups in Smith's most recent astronomy class studied wind features on Mars, including dust devils. The dust devils are difficult to capture on film since they form at a certain time of day and don't last long. Smith was afraid NASA wouldn't accept the proposal, since the odds of capturing the dust devil tracks were not great.
"They form in the afternoon and then are covered up soon after," Smith said.
But the proposal was accepted, and the students found a crater the right size, in the right place, which was full of sand. When the students looked at their image taken by the camera, they saw that the crater they had targeted was a good choice.
"We got dust devils - it was full of dust devils," Smith said.
One group measured the width of fissures and the depth of craters and found a correlation between the two.
"They got very complicated data and came up with a geologic explanation," Smith said.
Many schools will only submit one proposal in a year, and even then, only a few elite students will work on it. Smith believes that all her students are capable of high-level work, so they all participate. Each class submits one proposal, with each group in the class writing a portion. In fall 2007, each of the four classes submitted a proposal. They were all accepted.
Each student gets a poster of the picture their class took with the camera. Eventually, Smith hopes the students will be able to study images of the moon from the Jackson Observatory telescope as well.
When the Messenger craft flew by Mercury in January, students in the astronomy class were watching.
"I told the students, now [the NASA scientists] analyze the images," Smith said. "That's what astronomers do, and you did it. That's what they do at NASA."
Less than one-third of the students in Smith's class are part of the math and science team at Jackson. Many of them, she said, are students who didn't get on the team but have a great interest in science. For Smith, a former engineer, the opportunity to design a course plan from scratch, for students who were motivated and interested in the subject, was a dream come true.
The class is limited to 24 students, which allows Smith to draw in students who might get off task in a larger group.
"This gives them an association with success," she said. "Kids who are failing science can get an A in my class."
Smith teaches aerospace engineering and environmental science in addition to astronomy. All three classes are electives for students at Jackson. Some students take all three, she said, but the classes vary widely. The engineering focus includes less writing and more computer-aided drafting and math. English as a Second Language students with talents in math and science also tend to shine in the engineering class.
"Some kids who struggle in astronomy blossom in engineering," she said. "In science you ask questions, in engineering you solve problems. Kids who take both have a clear indication of which one they like."
20. Taking power from bullies at Oak View Middle School
Catie Burgraff's class gathered in a circle on the floor to discuss perceptions - how they perceive themselves and how others perceive them. The discussion was their Thursday morning meeting - a weekly activity when the homeroom students talk about topics related to bullying.
The Olweus bullying prevention program has been in place at Oak View for almost a year, and already teachers and students are seeing a change.
"They're starting to take ownership, and they're more aware of bullying this year," Burgraff said.
Burgraff teaches eighth-grade Integrated Language Arts, and is one of the Olweus committee co-chairs at the school. She said students have really taken to the Olweus program, even though it is only the first year.
The Thursday morning meetings take place in the students' homerooms from 8:25 to 8:45 a.m. Some of the topics have included bullying on the bus, community giving, recognizing stereotypes, social skills and text message bullying. Students also watch videos and discuss scenarios they see.
The Olweus program includes three levels of interventions to help stop bullying. School-wide interventions include an anonymous bully/victim questionnaire about bullying, staff training, school rules against bullying and a coordinated supervision system. Regular classroom meetings let teachers take a hands-on approach with a small group of students. Individual interventions are conducted with children who bully or who are the target of bullies and the students' parents.
Karen Dahl, district prevention program trainer, said the program implementation has been great. The initial survey, conducted in 2006, affirmed what the Olweus program counts on: students want to stop bullying.
"One of the questions was 'If you saw someone being bullied, what would you do?'" Dahl said. "Eighty to 90 percent of the students said they wish they could do something."
In a discussion with a group of boys, Burgraff said they agreed that the school needs the program, but told her "it isn't working yet." She explained that "the students' eyes are open and their ears are open, but their mouths aren't open." In other words, students are starting to see and hear the bullying behavior, but they aren't comfortable enough to stop it on their own.
"They know [the program] can't just be a teacher thing, because teachers don't always see [the bullying]," Burgraff said. "They're starting to take action."
Another change at Oak View this year has been a change to open lunch, which allows students to sit wherever they want at lunch, instead of at assigned seats. So far, Dahl said the experiment has been successful.
School administrators will have an opportunity to assess the program after the students respond to the survey again this spring. Then they can see how the students' experiences have changed.
Dahl said the Olweus program has reported impressive changes in other districts.
"If it's implemented with fidelity, schools could see 30 to 70 percent less bullying," she said. Although the program doesn't exist at the high school level, Dahl is confident that middle school students will carry their new "behavior of respect" to high school.
In addition to the program, a district-wide bullying prohibition was approved by the board in 2006. "Now we have more to attach our program to," Dahl said. "We were one of the first districts to have [the district prohibition]."
In the future, Dahl said the district hopes to expand the program to include at least one elementary school. She said students' school experiences are changed dramatically by bullying.
"The bulk of bullying is in elementary and middle schools," she said. "When students are bullied at a young age, it sticks."
High School News and Events:
21. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater spring productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
"My Fair Lady"
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m.
Andover High School theater students will perform the 1956 Broadway smash hit, "My Fair Lady." The musical, with book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, is based upon George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion." In it, a misogynistic and snobbish phonetics professor agrees to a wager that he can take a flower girl and make her presentable in high society.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $6 for K-12 students and senior citizens. For tickets, call 763-506-8491 or visit www.andovertheatre.org. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
Anoka High School
"High School Musical"
Friday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.
Thursday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Disney Channel's smash hit musical comes to life on stage! "High School Musical" is the irresistible story of two teenagers - Troy Bolton, super-popular captain of the basketball team, and Gabriella Montez, super-smart transfer student and a genius in science class - who try to navigate the tricky currents of peer pressure to follow their dreams and score the leads in the big school show. Don't miss this international sensation!
Ticket prices for adults are $10 for reserved tickets and $8 for general admission balcony tickets. Ticket prices for students and senior citizens are $5 for reserved tickets and $4 for balcony tickets.
Call 763-506-6439 (Monday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m.) for more information. Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
Blaine High School
"Beauty and the Beast"
Friday, April 25 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, April 26 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.
Friday, May 2 at 7 p.m. (ASL Performance)
Saturday, May 3 at 7 p.m.
Ticket prices for reserved tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free. Call 763-506-6666 for reservations. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
Coon Rapids High School
"Grease"
Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. (ASL Performance)
Saturday, May 3 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $8 for adults. Call 763-506-7291 or go to www.anoka.k12.mn.us/crhstheatre to reserve your tickets. Reservations are recommended. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
College and Career Planning Events:
22. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
23. ACT prep course available for high school students April 26 through June 7
Is your child looking to prepare for the ACT exam in June? If so, consider enrolling them in Kaplan's ACT prep course, which meets on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. if it's a practice test) and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. at Blaine High School. See below for the complete schedule.
Course schedule:
1 - Practice test one (diagnostic), April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2 - English, reading, math and science, April 29 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
3 - English, math, science and strategy, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
4 - Reading, math, writing and strategy, May 6 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
5 - Practice test two, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
6 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
7 - English, reading, math and strategy, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
8 - Practice test three, May 20 from 5 to 9 p.m.
9 - English, reading, science and strategy, May 27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
10 - English, writing, math and science, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
11 - Practice test four, June 5 from to 9 p.m.
12 - All five subject areas and strategy, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Anoka-Hennepin students can register for the course at the discounted price of $499 (regularly $699) by calling 1-800-KAP-TEST or going to: www.kaptest.com/act. Use the following code for the discount: ACMS8015. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
24. ACT Express course available for high school students in May
The ACT condensed course, "ACT Express" will be available to Anoka-Hennepin high school students just prior to the June 14 ACT test, at the reduced price of $199 (regularly $299).
The 12-hour course includes instruction, test-taking strategies and skills review. The cost includes course, diagnostic exam and book. The course will be offered at Coon Rapids High School at the following times:
• Diagnostic exam on May 14 at 3 p.m.
• Follow-up class May 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Call 1-800-KAP-TEST or go to: www.kaptest.com/act to enroll or for more information. Be sure to use the following code to receive the Anoka-Hennepin discount: AXMS8002. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
25. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• Minnesota Private College Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email: colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
26. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days, college and career preparation opportunities and prepare college options information. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace or gain valuable college prep information. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours, college and career prep workshops available at your student's high school.
Here is an upcoming date for information on the Post Secondary Education Option (PSEO) and career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
Program Dates:
Physical Therapy, April 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Community Education News and Events:
27. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6 years old (must turn 4 by June 1). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
28. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
Exciting and enriching classes are calling your name! Get in shape, explore your crafty side or discover a new language. The spring Adult Class catalog is full of learning opportunities just for you. Check out all of the classes online at: http://www.discovercommunityed.com. Below are a few upcoming classes you won't want to miss.
BELLY DANCING - BEGINNING
The ancient art of belly dance is a growing form of self-expression and great way to stay fit. Come learn basic concepts and techniques of Middle Eastern dance. You'll warm up, explore core movements and review posture and presentation. Must be at least 18. Instructor: Sybil. No class May 1. Class fee: $45.
· Thursdays through May 22 from 7 to 7:50 p.m. or 8 to 8:50 p.m. at Champlin Elementary School, 111 Dean Avenue West in Champlin.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7428
FIT FOR GOLF
Using Functional Movement Screens you'll be instructed on how to gain distance on your drives and how to keep you head still during your swings. Because a repetitive golf swing can lead to injury risk of your lower back, shoulders, and elbows, a trainer will work with you to help decrease those risks of breakdown so that you can enjoy the game even more. Bring tennis shoes, a golf glove, and your pitching wedge, 7 iron, and driver. Women's class 6 to 7 p.m.; men's class 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. Facility fee of $25 paid to instructor at class. Class fee: $55.
· Mondays through April 28 from 6 to 7 p.m. or 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. at Velocity Sports Performance, 8900 109th Ave. N., Suite 700 in Champlin.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8651=
YOGA - FITNESS
Geared toward the fitness enthusiasts who want to add a "twist" to their training. Gain flexibility, muscle strength, and relaxation. This beginner/intermediate class focuses on the principles and postures of yoga and incorporates them into today's fitness. Bring a water bottle, yoga mat, hand towel and a bath towel. Instructor: Jill. Class fee: $39. Check Web site for additional class dates and times.
· Mondays through May 12 from 6 to 6:50 p.m. at Northdale Middle School, 11301 Dogwood St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7423=
YOGA - HATHA
Yoga for all levels of fitness. Work at your own comfort level. Work on building strength, increasing flexibility, finding focus and balance. Use relaxation tools to help reduce stress, tension, and improve health with a short meditation or reflection time at the end. Bring a yoga sticky mat, water and optional blocks, straps or padding. Instructor: Melissa. Class fee: $45.
· Mondays through May 19 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Oak View Middle School, 15400 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7425=
RUSSIAN I
Russia is a vast country of diverse cultures, rich history, and home to 215 million. Learn to communicate for travel, work or pleasure! Instructor Natasha Panov is a native speaker. Textbook fee of $15 included in class fee. Class fee: $64.
· Mondays through May 12 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Coon Rapids Middle School, 11600 Raven St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
· Visit Community Education for complete details: http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7307=
29. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers day and evening classes for adults who want to earn a diploma by earning a GED or completing course work in the Adult Diploma program. Call 763-783-4870 for enrollment information. All classes are free!
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Volunteers are needed to assist adult students working on their English, reading, math or work skills. Call 763-783-4920 to talk with Metro North ABE's volunteer coordinator. Training is provided. Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out:
30. Northdale Middle School students help to make a difference
Seventh-grade students in Pam Zimba's class at Northdale Middle School fed 500 people in 45 minutes. The students achieved this feat by using a Web site quiz that donates rice to people in Africa. They spent 45 minutes in the computer lab completing the survey, which earned 50,000 grains of rice.
In addition to the rice donation, the students earned $600 for a non-profit that aids children in Africa. They raised the money by asking students, teachers and staff to donate money, which tehey called "Change for Change." They went door-to-door around their neighborhoods to ask for money as well.
The rice donation Web site is: www.freerice.com.
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Backpack Online #22 - Policy change will allow early entrance to kindergarten, district to purchase new computers with state dollars and enrollment begins gradual decline. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Anoka-Hennepin middle school jazz festival March 28
2. Blaine High School fourth annual Swing Dance March 28
3. Blaine High School to host Minnesota Percussion Association preliminary event March 29
4. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
5. Sandburg Middle School artwork on display in St. Paul during month of March
6. Charlie Brown comes to Blaine High School April 1 and 2
7. Oxbow Creek Elementary and Parkview Early Childhood Center art and academic expo April 3
8. Champlin Park High School orchestra fundraiser April 3
School Board News:
9. Policy change will allow early entrance to kindergarten
10. Action of the School Board March 10 and 24 meeting PDFs now available
General News and Events:
11. Anoka Children's Theatre presents "The Just So Stories" April 4, 5 and 6
12. School House Rocks teacher talent show April 11
13. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
14. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
15. District to purchase new computers with state dollars
16. District enrollment begins gradual decline
17. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
Elementary School News and Events:
18. Hamilton Elementary School 11th annual craft and garage sale April 5
19. Adams Elementary School annual carnival April 12
20. Public invited to elementary "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
21. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
22. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Middle School News and Events:
23. Roosevelt Middle School plans parent program
High School News and Events:
24. Coon Rapids High School FCCLA "Stop the Violence" walk-a-thon April 5
College and Career Planning Events:
25. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
26. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students (updated)
Student Success:
27. Anoka-Hennepin PI floor hockey team wins second state championship
28. Coon Rapids High School places third at state wrestling tournament, receive academic and individual honors
Community Education News and Events:
29. April is Autism Awareness Month: Community Education to sponsor the play "Autistic License" April 12
30. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
31. Classes available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
32. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Upcoming Events:
1. Anoka-Hennepin middle school jazz festival March 28
The public is invited to attend the Anoka-Hennepin middle school jazz festival on Friday, March 28 at Oak View Middle School at 6:30 p.m. The event will feature performances from Coon Rapids, Jackson, Roosevelt and Oak View middle schools.
The event is free and open to the public. Come and enjoy a relaxed evening of jazz music! Oak View Middle School is located at 15400 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
2. Blaine High School fourth annual Swing Dance March 28
Are you interested in learning how to swing dance? If so, you'll want to check out Blaine High School's fourth annual Swing Dance on Friday, March 28 at 6:30 p.m. The event will feature swing dance lessons from local instructors and music from the Blaine High School Jazz I and II ensembles and a special guest appearance from Andover High School's Jazz I ensemble.
Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. The family rate is $20. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
3. Blaine High School to host Minnesota Percussion Association preliminary event March 29
The public is invited to attend the Minnesota Percussion Association winter drum line preliminaries at Blaine High School on Saturday, March 29 at 5 p.m. The event will feature performances from 14 Minnesota and Wisconsin high school drum lines, including Anoka, Blaine and Coon Rapids high schools.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors and are available at the door. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
4. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
Parents, students, colleagues and others are invited to nominate an exemplary teacher - one who is improving student achievement, using innovative strategies, and making a difference in the lives of students - for an American Stars of Teaching award. The award, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors superior teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of their students.
Nominations are accepted through March 31. Winners will be announced this fall. For more information or to nominate someone, visit: http://www.t2tweb.us/AmStar/About.asp.
5. Sandburg Middle School artwork on display in St. Paul during month of March
Contemporary fiber art dolls created by 285 sixth graders at Sandburg Middle School will be on display during the month of March at the Black Dog Café in St. Paul. The public is invited and encouraged to view the dolls on display.
Sandburg art teacher Cynthia Adbulla assigned her students create a doll that symbolized themselves, their hobbies, a loved one or other topic that interested them as a class project. The end result was amazing, said Abdulla. Each doll was hand-sewn and designed by students and features an accompany story written by a student.
"I was so touched by the work that I felt they needed to be seen by the community," said Abdulla, who is also a fiber artist. "They are really amazing and very personal."
The opening celebration is Saturday, March 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. Refreshments will be served. View photos of the dolls in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19929.
The Black Dog Café is located a 308 Prince St. in St. Paul, phone: 651-228-9274, Web: www.blackdogstpaul.com.
6. Charlie Brown comes to Blaine High School April 1 and 2
Blaine High School students with special needs will present their version of "Lucy Has Got to be Traded, Charlie Brown!" on Tuesday, April 1 at 9:30 a.m. and Wednesday, April 2 at 11:30 a.m. in the school's auditorium. The public is invited to attend the performances.
The members of this theater group have worked on their performances during third term, said Linda Oliver, special education para at Blaine. "They are excited to share their scenery, costumes and public relations committee work with the audience."
Come and join the laughter and fun that Charlie Brown and crew bring to the stage! Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
7. Oxbow Creek Elementary and Parkview Early Childhood Center art and academic expo April 3
The public is invited to attend the eight annual Oxbow Creek Elementary and Parkview Early Childhood Center art and academic expo on Thurdsday, April 3 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Projects will be displayed at both schools. This year's theme is "Let Your Creativity Soar."
The event will feature approximately 500 student projects in 13 categories, along with live performances. The projects are judged by parents, staff and community members.
Oxbow Creek Elementary School is located at 6505 109th Ave. N. in Champlin. Parkview Early Childhood Center is located at 6100 109th Ave. in
Champlin.
8. Champlin Park High School orchestra fundraiser April 3
The Champlin Park High School orchestra booster club will host a fundraiser event at Sweet Taste of Italy restaurant in Brooklyn Park on Thursday, April 3. On this day, 10 percent of all sales will go directly to the Champlin Park High School orchestra booster club and scholarship fund.
The club would like to invite community members to participate in this event. No coupons required. Sweet Taste of Italy is located at 9576 Noble Parkway N. in Brooklyn Park, phone: 763-493-4733, Web site: www.sweettasteofitaly.com.
School Board News:
9. Policy change will allow early entrance to kindergarten
The Anoka-Hennepin School Board recently approved a new policy that will allow parents to apply for early entrance into kindergarten for children who are almost 5 years old. Parents and guardians of children whose fifth birthdays fall between Sept. 2 and Oct. 31 can submit an application to have students considered for that year's kindergarten class instead of waiting until the next year.
"These are the students most emotionally and socially ready for kindergarten," said Lynn Montgomery, assistant director of student services. "We want this to be a positive, successful experience for the child so we want to do everything we can to ensure that."
Prior to this change, district policy was that every child entering kindergarten had be 5 years old by Sept. 1 of that year.
The application for early entrance into kindergarten includes a parent/guardian questionnaire, copy of birth certificate and a letter of recommendation from a preschool or other group setting teacher and is due by June 1. A formal intellectual assessment is also required, and will be administered free of charge in June at the Anoka-Hennepin Family Welcome Center by a licensed school psychologist.
Early entrance into kindergarten applications will be reviewed by the assistant director of student services, the kindergarten principal, and the building principal. Each student will also have a follow-up review after six weeks in the kindergarten program.
For more information, call the Kindergarten Hotline at 763-506-3925. The application can be downloaded from the district Web site at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter in the "Kindergarten" folder.
10. Action of the School Board March 10 and 24 meeting PDFs now available
The Communications and Public Relations Department recently announced the launch of the Action of the School Board e-newsletter, available to download on the district Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/actionsb.
The Action of the School Board e-newsletter provides brief summaries of Anoka-Hennepin School Board meetings for staff and the general public in PDF format. PDFs of the March 10 and 24 meetings are now available to view and download.
Complete minutes of School Board meetings are published on the district's Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/schoolboard and in the school district's legal newspapers:
• Anoka County Union
• Blaine Life
• Coon Rapids Herald
• Champlin Dayton Press
• Brooklyn Park Sun-Post
• Brooklyn Center Sun-Post
General News and Events:
11. Anoka Children's Theatre presents "The Just So Stories" April 4, 5 and 6
If you've ever wondered how the camel got its hump, or how the elephant got its trunk or how the kangaroo got its hop, then you'll want to check out the Anoka Children's Theatre (ACT) production of "The Just So Stories."
"The Just So Stories," by Rudyard Kipling, author of "The Jungle Book," takes place in England in 1902 at a boarding school attended by Elsie and John Kipling. After the children receive a recently published copy of their father's new book, they, along with their classmates, decide to act out the "laugh out loud" animal adventures.
With the help of some very colorful characters and trunkfuls of props, ACT students will act out "The Just So Stories" and become zany animals, majestic mountains, a genie, wizards and rolling waters.
"The Anoka Children's Theatre production of 'The Just So Stories' inspires live theater," said Diane Whitcraft, Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts Community Education coordinator. "It encourages them to turn their living rooms into theatres; make hats out of lampshades, or, perhaps, turn umbrellas into palm trees. It encourages children of all ages to use their imagination and put on a show!"
Public performances of "The Just So Stories" are Friday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, April 5 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, April 6 at 2 p.m. at the Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts auditorium. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children (18 and under) and can be purchased at the door or by calling the ACT Box Office at 763-506-5114. Reservations are accepted through April 11.
ACT, which began in January 1990, is an Anoka-Hennepin Community Education fine arts program that is open to any district student in grades four through eight. The program has two productions a year. Students rehearse for eight weeks before presenting three performances.
Since its birth, ACT has grown, with the cast size ranging from 20 to 52 and audience size from 100 to over 3000 patrons. ACT has performed a variety of plays, including, "The Little Mermaid," "Charlotte's Web," and "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." Some community sponsors in the past have included: the Anoka American Legion, Medtronic, Chase Manhattan Bank, the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation, the Anoka Rotary and a variety of local businesses.
For more information on ACT, visit: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/act or call Sheila Moller, production coordinator at 763-506-1023, or Diane Whitcraft, Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts Community Education coordinator at 763-506-5012.
12. School House Rocks teacher talent show April 11
The public is invited to see Anoka-Hennepin teachers "rock the house" in the third annual School House Rocks event, "The School House Rocks - an X-treme teacher variety show." The event is sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Education Minnesota (AHEM), and will be held at Coon Rapids High School in the auditorium on Friday, April 11 at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets are available at the door or by calling the Anoka-Hennepin Education Minnesota (AHEM) office at 763-421-9110.
Proceeds will go to student scholarships and the AHEF Chance Fund for students who need assistance with activity fees.
Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
13. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement. There are two sessions: one for professionals who work with children and one for parents.
In a world where children are often given the message that the ends justify the means; where harmful even violent behavior goes unnoticed; where children's ethical education can come from a T-shirt slogan, an Internet site or the evening news, the "Just because it's not wrong doesn't make it right" workshop is an essential tool for professionals who work with children and parents.
In this workshop with the internationally renowned author, Barbara Coloroso, participants will find out how they can help guide children's ethical lives using everyday situations at home, at school, in social settings and in the world at large.
Participants will learn:
• The overall concept of ethics and the reasons why it is important to teach children and teens to think and act ethically
• Deterrents that can impair the ability for adults and children to act ethically, including hating, hoarding and harming
• Strategies for helping children and teens understand their choices and their ability to make ethical decisions
The event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement, Anoka County Child Abuse Prevention Council and Connexus Energy.
The workshop for professionals who work with children is Tuesday, April 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Blvd. N.W., Ramsey. The cost of this event is $25 with certificates of attendance available. Download the registration form in the district's online document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter. Click on the "Backpack Online" folder.
The workshop for parents is Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka. This event is free. Call 763-433-4145 to register.
For more information, contact Donna McDonald, Violence Prevention coordinator - Anoka County Community Health Department, at 763-422-7047 or at: donna.mcdonald@co.anoka.mn.us.
14. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 6 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19998.
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Scholarships may be available. Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
15. District to purchase new computers with state dollars
The Anoka-Hennepin School District is now preparing to purchase new computers to meet the most critical needs of schools. Using money appropriated by the Minnesota Legislature specifically for technology, the district will purchase computers for technology labs and classrooms this spring and summer.
"All students will benefit from the technology dollars," said Patrick Plant, Director of Technology. The money will be divided among all schools on a modified per pupil basis.
Plant emphasized that technology is essential to prepare students for success in life. "Students with strong technology skills are prepared to get good jobs in the real world," he said. "This is especially true as the competition for jobs becomes more intense. Today's graduates must compete for the best jobs with well-trained graduates from around the globe." He pointed out that business and industry have a growing need for new workers who have advanced technology skills.
Most but not all schools will receive new equipment immediately. "The dollars available this year will be used to meet the most critical needs first," he said.
The district received $1.9 million in capital dollars for technology in the current school year and will receive $2.6 million next year. This money was appropriated, in part, because of the need of schools across the state to prepare for new online state tests. The first large-scale online tests will be administered this spring in science.
The district's Technology Steering Committee identified two critical needs that will be met using the state money. The first priority is replacing school technology labs in need of new equipment to be ready for online science testing beginning in April. The district is reviewing labs on a school-by-school basis to determine which will be replaced this year. Labs with the oldest equipment will be replaced first.
"We have numerous labs with computers that are too old and cannot be upgraded to be capable of handling the online tests," Plant said. "These must be replaced prior to the spring testing."
The second priority is replacing the elementary and middle school classroom computers, which are now six years old. These computers, generally one per classroom, are used by teachers for a variety of purposes ranging from preparing class materials and presenting lessons to keeping attendance and grades. They will be purchased and installed in the summer.
The district is currently working with the Minnesota Office of Enterprise Technology and the Minnesota Department of Education to organize a statewide technology buy and get the best possible prices.
The district is working with high schools to develop additional plans for the most effective use of the funds available to meet student needs.
All of these technology purchases work toward meeting goals in the district's state-required technology plan, which was adopted by the School Board last year. The plan set forth two levels of technology - minimum functionality and optimal functionality. In addition to the one-time state money, the district received money for technology in a settlement with Microsoft. Together these two funding sources are not adequate to purchase all of the items needed to reach the minimum functionality level outlined in the plan. If the technology bond had passed last November, the district would have had resources to meet the minimum functionality level. Without the bond money, the district is scaling back plans and looking for other sources of funding.
16. District enrollment begins gradual decline
After eight years of stability, enrollment in Anoka-Hennepin Schools has begun a gradual decline as the result of a decrease in the birthrate and a stagnant housing market. The number of live births in Anoka and Hennepin counties is down by approximately 600 compared with last year and total building permits declined for the third straight year, according to Assistant Technology Coordinator Georgia Kedrowski, who has responsibility for tracking district enrollment.
Total enrollment, which includes students in Early Childhood Special Education programs as well as kindergarten through grade 12, dropped 640 students, from 41,251 in fall 2006 to 40,611 last fall. A similar decrease is expected next year.
The student counts for the last eight years have been the most stable in the district's history. When the district formed in 1952, enrollment was only 3,949 students. However, the post World War II baby boom swelled enrollment. By 1962 it had tripled to 12,197 and by 1972 it had climbed to 28,980. The 1960s showed the most rapid growth in district history and two or three new schools opened nearly every year to keep pace.
Between 1972 and 1982 growth slowed dramatically, rising to a peak of 32,334 in 1976 and then falling to 30,529 students in 1982 for an increase of about 1,500 students over the decade. The decrease in the late '70s and early '80s was due to a decline in the birthrate, high interest rates and low turnover in housing. Families that had bought their homes in the 1960s often retired in them and neighborhoods that once were home to many school-age children gradually changed as the children graduated from high school and moved on.
Enrollment in Anoka-Hennepin schools began climbing again in the late 1980s when baby boomers began having families in large numbers and new housing construction was spurred, at least in part, by low interest rates. Once again the district saw the need to build new schools to accommodate the increase.
When citizens approved a bond issue to build Andover High School, the district predicted enrollment would stabilize and then begin a gradual decline. The decline has begun, and the district will continue to follow demographic trends that have an impact on enrollment so it can plan the most efficient use of school facilities.
Enrollment History
1952 3,949
1962 12,197
1972 28,980
1982 30,529
1983 30,335
1984 30,376
1985 30,552
1986 30,906
1987 31,530
1988 32,190
1989 32,653
1990 33,191
1991 34,194
1992 35,144
1993 36,129
1994 37,041
1995 37,395
1996 38,245
1997 39,024
1998 39,326
1999 39,947
2000 39,948
2001 39,939
2002 39,836
2003 39,800
2004 40,151
2005 40,104
2006 39,819
2007 39,164
2008 38,500 projected for fall 2008
Note: These figures do not include students enrolled in Early Childhood Special Education programs or alternative programs
17. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools observed I Love to Read Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to read. In many schools, students kept track of minutes spent reading or the number of books read, working toward individual or school goals. Some schools had book give-aways, book exchanges, guest readers and artists in residence.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month.
MISSISSIPPI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Mississippi Elementary School students and staff participated in several fun activities during I Love to Read Month:
• During the week of Feb. 4 through 8, a Dr. Seuss hat was passed around to each classroom. Classes stopped, dropped and read when the hat arrived in their room. Students received a bookmark upon the hat's arrival.
• Students and staff participated in a school-wide read aloud with the book, "Doll People" by Ann Martin. From Feb. 11 through 29, a small doll was hidden throughout the school for students to find.
• The school held a book fair from Feb. 19 through 25, which was also open during conferences. Each classroom also built a book that was on display during conferences.
• Mystery readers read short sections of "Doll People" during morning announcements from Feb. 25 through March 3. Students were encouraged to guess the reader.
• The Lions Club played "Bango for Books" with students on Feb. 26, in which students received free books.
• The school had another school-wide read on March 4 to celebrate the 50th birthday of the book "The Cat in the Hat" by Dr. Seuss. Students were also awarded medals for the number of minutes they read.
• Classroom doors were decorated with favorite books, themes and student work related to a book they read in class.
• Grandparents (and other special persons) were invited to come and share a special lunch with their student and read during class.
• A special lunchroom celebration was held to celebrate reading. Students also had the chance to earn a free book for turning in "Box Tops for Education" during the first part of the month.
WILSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Principal Diane Henning dressed up in western wear and made an entrance on a "stick pony" (to tie in with the school's western "Saddle Up and Read!" theme) on March 26 at a special school ceremony to celebrate students reading 710,871 minutes collectively. The school wide goal was to read 600,000 minutes.
View more school examples and photos in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19783.
Elementary School News and Events:
18. Hamilton Elementary School 11th annual craft and garage sale April 5
Hamilton Elementary will host its 11th annual craft and garage sale on Saturday, April 5 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event will feature a variety of crafts and items from participating sellers. The money made from renting tables and concession stand sales will benefit the Hamilton Children's Sunshine fund, which helps purchase school supplies, warm winter clothing and other necessary items for students in need. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Call the school at 763-506-2700 for more information. Hamilton Elementary School is located at 1374 111th Ave. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
19. Adams Elementary School annual carnival April 12
The public is invited to attend Adams Elementary School's annual carnival on Saturday, April 12 from 11 to 3 p.m. at the school. The event will feature a cake walk, raffle, games, food, a silent auction, bingo and more! Tickets are available at the door.
In 1992, the late Dr. Don Rautio, (principal at Adams from 1984 to 1997) collaborated with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Minnesota Department of Education and the city of Coon Rapids to build the Adams Environment Trail. Students now walk the trail four times a year. Proceeds from the event will go to support this tradition and Adams environmental education, said principal Elizabeth "Libby" White.
"Over the years, thousands of students have benefited from Dr. Rautio's passion for the environment," said White. "The Adams Parents Advisory Council (PAC) continues to support this program. The school is grateful and appreciates any support the community can offer to keep this tradition going strong."
Adams Elementary is located at 8989 Sycamore St. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
20. Public invited to elementary school "Schools of Excellence" celebration May 14
Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools have been named Schools of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association.
Johnsville Elementary in Blaine and Oxbow Creek Elementary in Champlin were among eight schools statewide to achieve the seven-year designation this year. Since MESPA began giving out the award in 1986, only two Anoka-Hennepin schools have achieved the honor: Andover Elementary in 1993 and McKinley Elementary in 1996.
Johnsville's celebration was March 26. Oxbow Creek will hold a celebration in conjunction with track and field day on May 14 from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. outside the school, 6505 109th Ave. N., Champlin. The public is invited to attend the remaining celebration.
Click on the following link to read the entire article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19945.
21. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
22. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
Middle School News and Events:
23. Roosevelt Middle School plans parent program
Next week, Roosevelt Middle School will kick off a new parent book study about David Walsh's new book, "No: Why Kids of All Ages Need to Hear It". The kickoff event is Monday, March 31 at 6 p.m. at Roosevelt Middle School media center, 650 125th Ave. N.E., Blaine.
The study is sponsored by the Roosevelt Parent Partnership Team and includes parents from Roosevelt feeder schools Johnsville, McKinley and University Avenue elementary schools. Copies of the book are available for parents to purchase for $7. For those who cannot afford the cost, scholarship money will offset the cost.
Roosevelt Middle School Principal Greg Blodgett says the book study "will provide straightforward advice and tools for parents to help their child develop virtues like self-control, perseverance, integrity and the self-discipline that kids need to be successful in school and in life."
More dates for the continuing book study will be announced at a later date.
High School News and Events:
24. Coon Rapids High School FCCLA "Stop the Violence" walk-a-thon April 5
The public is invited to participate in Coon Rapids High School's "Stop the Violence" walk-a-thon on Saturday, April 5 at the school's track. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with the event starting at 10 a.m.
The event is sponsored by the Coon Rapids High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) group. The cost of the event is $10. Proceeds from the event will benefit Alexandra House, a domestic violence shelter in Anoka County.
Donations of bottled water, granola bars, fruit snacks and door prizes (like gift certificates, coupons, merchandise and services) are welcomed.
Registration forms are available to download at: http://www.freewebs.com/crhswalkathon or in the main office at Coon Rapid High School. Registrations received by 1 p.m. on April 2 are guaranteed a T-shirt. Registrations will also be accepted on the day of the event.
For more information or to donate items, contact Karen Sherga, Coon Rapids FCCLA advisor, at 763-506-7357 or at: Karen.Sherga@anoka.k12.mn.us. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
College and Career Planning Events:
25. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• Minnesota Private College Week: June 23 through 27. Tour the state, visiting your choice of 17 colleges. Morning and afternoon sessions available. To register, visit: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mpcw. For more information, email: colleges@mnprivatecolleges.org or call 1-800-PRI-COLL.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
26. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days, college and career preparation opportunities and prepare college options information. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace or gain valuable college prep information. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours, college and career prep workshops available at your student's high school.
Here is an upcoming date for information on the Post Secondary Education Option (PSEO) and career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Physical Therapy, April 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
27. Anoka-Hennepin PI floor hockey team wins second state championship
The Anoka-Hennepin Physically Impaired (PI) Adapted Floor Hockey team won the state adapted floor hockey championship for the second year in a row on Saturday, March 15.
The Mustangs defeated Minneapolis South 11 - 2 in the quarter finals and South Suburban 4 - 2 in the semifinal round to advance to the finals, where they defeated Robbinsdale 4 - 2 for the championship. In 2007, the Mustangs defeated Dakota United for the championship, to whom they lost the championship round to in 2006.
In the past two years, the team has won 30 games, with no losses, said coach Sue Opat.
Adapted athletics programs have two divisions, one for students who are physically impaired (PI) and one for students with cognitive impairments (CI). Divisions compete separately, but follow similar season schedules.
Adapted floor hockey is sanctioned by the Minnesota State High School League and supported by dozens of school districts, most of which operate consolidated teams. Anoka-Hennepin's adapted athletics players come from its five high schools: Andover High School, Anoka High School, Blaine High School, Coon Rapids High School and Champlin Park High School.
For more information about adapted athletics, visit: www.mnadaptedathletics.com.
28. Coon Rapids High School places third at state wrestling tournament, receive academic and individual honors
On March 1, the Coon Rapids High School Cardinal wrestling team finished third at the state wrestling tournament, capping a fantastic season with a record of 25 wins and three losses.
The team defeated Wayzata 52 - 10 in the first round and lost to eventual champion Apple Valley 45 - 15 in the semifinals. The team came back to defeat Centennial 50 - 12 for third place.
The team also won their section academic title with a 3.41 grade point average, as well as a state silver academic plaque.
Head coach Bob Adams and assistant coach Adam Thronson were named Section 7AAA Coach of the Year and Assistant Coach of the Year respectively. Three students also placed in the top three in their individual divisions: Carter Adams, grade 11 - first place, 145 lbs; Shamus O'Grady, grade 12 - first place, 160 lbs; and Jason Engstrom, grade 12 - third place, 215 lbs.
Community Education News and Events:
29. April is Autism Awareness Month: Community Education to sponsor the play "Autistic License" April 12
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Community Education. The public is encouraged to attend.
April is Autism Awareness Month. Autism is the fastest growing epidemic in the country. Nationally, one in 150 children are diagnosed with it. In Minnesota, it is even higher: one in 105 - the third highest rate in the country.
To bring awareness of autism to the community, Anoka-Hennepin Community Education is sponsoring the play "Autistic License," written by Stacey Dinner-Levin, on Saturday, April 12 at the Anoka High School auditorium at 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
The play is based upon Dinner-Levin and her husband's experience of raising a child with autism. It was named one of the "10 Best Plays of 2007" by the Pioneer Press and was recently honored with a nomination for the national "Theater Critics New Play Award."
Admission is free to the performance, but donations to support this outreach project are welcomed. Call the Illusion Theater box office at 612-339-4944 or visit: http://www.illusiontheater.org to reserve seats.
This play is most appropriate for adults and children over 13 years old. Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
30. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1, 2008). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
31. Classes available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
YOU'RE NOT MY FRIEND
Does this sound familiar? Participants will discuss why children say these and other comments to their friends, as well as explore the methods for assisting children with their feelings and how we can help them with the dynamics of friendships. Instructor: Pam Bohm
• Monday, March 31 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St, Anoka
• Class fee: $9 per person
SIBSHOPS
Siblings, ages five through 12, of children with disabilities are invited to participate in Arc's Sibshops on the second Saturday of each month. This is a great way to have fun with others who understand the challenges of having a sibling with disabilities. Offered in collaboration with Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program.
• Second Saturday of the month: April 12 and May 10 at the Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center, 2740 Wingfield Ave., Anoka from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
• Free for Arc members; $10 per child for non-members.
• Call Arc at 952-920-0855 to register for this class.
Contact Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement at 763-506-1278 or at: Pam.Naegele@anoka.k12.mn.us with questions, to register for classes or to receive a hard copy brochure of classes sponsored by Parent Involvement.
32. Metro North Adult Basic Education offers GED Prep and Adult Diploma programs
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers day and evening classes for adults who want to earn a diploma by earning a GED or completing course work in the Adult Diploma program. Call 763-783-4870 for enrollment information. All classes are free!
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Volunteers are needed to assist adult students working on their English, reading, math or work skills. Call 763-783-4920 to talk with Metro North ABE's volunteer coordinator. Training is provided. Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
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Backpack Online #21 - Superintendent's Column, School Board approves 2008-09 calendar and Evergreen Park named Magnet School of Distinction. |
Rumor Alert!
1. Day of Silence
Question of the Week
2. Why is an A+ is no longer given as a grade?
Superintendent's Column
3. Declining enrollment
General News and Events:
4. Jackson/Champlin Park cluster band concert March 27
5. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
6. Anoka Children's Theatre presents "The Just So Stories" April 4, 5 and 6
7. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
8. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Summer Enrichment Institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
9. School Board approves 2008-09 school year calendar
10. 2008 Anoka-Hennepin Writing Contest update
11. Young Scientists Roundtable a huge success
12. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
13. Schools celebrate Black History Month
Elementary School News and Events:
14. Public invited to elementary "Schools of Excellence" celebrations, March 26 and May 14
15. Hoover Elementary School art extravaganza March 27
16. Hamilton Elementary School 11th annual craft and garage sale April 5
17. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
18. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
19. Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School named Magnet School of Distinction
Middle School News and Events:
20. Anoka-Hennepin Middle School Jazz Festival March 28
21. Sandburg Middle School artwork on display in St. Paul during month of March
High School News and Events:
22. Blaine High School fourth annual Swing Dance March 28
23. Blaine High School to host Minnesota Percussion Association preliminary event March 29
24. Coon Rapids High School FCCLA "Stop the Violence" walk-a-thon April 5
College and Career Planning Events:
25. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
26. High school career centers open to public (link)
27. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students (updated)
28. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
Student Success:
29. Anoka-Hennepin Destination ImagiNation teams advance to state competition
Community Education News and Events:
30. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
31. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
32. Classes available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
Reaching Out:
33. Franklin Elementary K-Kids participate in "Drop Your Socks" and "Pennies for Patients" drives
34. Monroe Elementary School participates in "Pennies for Patients"
35. Sandburg Middle School launches new campaign, "Sandburg Saves Lives"
1. Rumor Alert!
Rumor: I heard that high schools in the Anoka-Hennepin School District are going to participate in Day of Silence. I heard about it at my church and got an email listing your high schools as participating schools.
The facts: This is not true. Anoka-Hennepin schools do not observe or promote the Day of Silence, which is a national effort to call attention to issues of gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender people.
2. Question of the Week
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
Question: My step-son is in ninth grade. At his last conferences, we were told that an A+ is no longer given as a grade. Can you tell me why?
Response: The issue of grading was discussed several years ago by our Advanced Learner Committee when they studied various issues related to grade point averages and weighted grades. It was felt that an A is already considered exceptional work, well above average or good, to add a plus wouldn't have real meaning. In addition, because an A earns students 4.0 points towards their grade point average, which is the most colleges accept for a single course, there would be no value to adding the +. It could not add a fraction of a point as it does with a B, C or D grade. (For example, a B is 3.0; a B+ is .3.33.).
Superintendent's Column:
3. Declining enrollment
By Dr. Roger Giroux, superintendent
"I skate to where the puck is going not where it has been" -Wayne Gretsky
Thirty-two years ago I began my career at Anoka-Hennepin with the simple task of counting students for the entire district. During the first week of October all Minnesota school districts conducted their official enrollment count. In October of 1976 I dutifully collected the tabulations from each school, filled out the simple report and presented it to the School Board. Enrollment had decreased by several hundred students from the year before. Actually I checked the counts from the year before and the count had dropped that year as well. Unfortunately this was a growth district. We had just completed 10 years of accelerated growth, building a school almost every year. The idea of declining enrollment hadn't entered anyone's mind.
Erling Johnson, superintendent at the time (and a kind, wonderful mentor), suggested that I was making a mistake in my count. When I told the legislators that the district would qualify for declining enrollment aid, they were equally skeptical. I checked the counts several times and declared with shaky confidence that the district was losing students. Within two years we had them convinced.
Between 1975 and 1982, the Anoka-Hennepin schools lost 2,000 students net for grades kindergarten through 12. During that period, kindergarten enrollment dropped from over 3,000 to just under 2,300. That kindergarten drop was precipitous and would have had a traumatic effect on school district finances if it were not for the growth of previous years making its way through the upper grades. Unfortunately that bulge of students moving through the grades masked a profound change in demographics. In 1993 our kindergarten enrollment reached a peak of 3,150 and held at 3,000 for several years.
School districts across Minnesota, including Anoka-Hennepin, now face decreasing enrollments. We have fewer families with school-age children and the boomlets and echos from the original post-World War II baby boom are fading fast. The problem of enrollment decline is accelerated by the crisis in the housing market and school finances are further aggravated by state revenues falling victim to a poor economy.
Declining enrollment districts have two dependent challenges: revenues will decrease faster than comparable decreases in expenditures and excess space will be inconsistently distributed across classrooms, grade levels and schools. The problems can be greatly exasperated by denial (the economy will turn around before it becomes a problem) and failure to see the problems until it's too late to take action.
Anoka-Hennepin has to anticipate the conditions that our schools and school children will face in the next 12, 24 and 36 months. We also have to anticipate conditions five years out. Our purpose isn't to be "right on" with our projections but to create a "best case/worst case" margin within which we can plan.
Our first observation is that enrollment declines are accelerating because of the changes in the housing market. The second observation is that state education revenue may continue below inflation for the next five years and under-funding of the schools will accelerate reduction of programs and services and result in increased class size and add to the surplus of classrooms. Our third observation is that the Anoka-Hennepin school district will not need all of its classroom space in future years. A fourth observation is that enrollment trends can turn around but that turnaround is unlikely to occur very soon and will probably not be large enough to offset the trend of decline. A fifth observation is that revenues and expenditures have to balance and that balance is dependent in part on our control of overhead costs including the costs associated with the number of schools, classrooms, courses, teachers and other staff that we keep in place.
The problems are not entirely upon the Anoka-Hennepin Schools right now, but if the economic and enrollment trends continue, they will be on us for the 2009-10 school year as well as the 2010-11 school year. We have to plan for those years with worst and best case scenarios as our guides.
Before the Board has to engage in decisions, we will engage in extensive dialogue with staff, parents, students and citizens. We will publish and post the data profiles and attendant information systems that support a planning process and we will obtain input before issues become contentious. We will answer questions - many, many questions.
Passage of the levy last November allows the citizens of Anoka-Hennepin time to engage in communication and work toward consensus on critical issues without creating crisis. We are grateful for that support. Minnesota's children have to be Minnesota's top priority and a reasonably predictable future for their schools is essential to their success in a highly competitive world.
General News and Events:
4. Jackson/Champlin Park cluster band concert March 27
The public is invited to attend the sixth annual Jackson Middle School/Champlin Park High School cluster band concert on Thursday, March 27 at the Champlin Park fieldhouse at 7:30 p.m.
More than 800 students from six different bands will perform in the 60-minute concert. The event will end with the "Twin Cities March" in which all band students from both schools will play at the same time.
Food donations for the Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP) will be accepted at the door. Champlin Park High School is located at 6025 109th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
5. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
Parents, students, colleagues and others are invited to nominate an exemplary teacher for an American Stars of Teaching award. The award, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors superior teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of their students.
Nominations are accepted through March 31. Winners will be announced this fall. For more information or to nominate someone, visit: http://www.t2tweb.us/AmStar/About.asp.
6. Anoka Children's Theatre presents "The Just So Stories" April 4, 5 and 6
Anoka-Hennepin school district students will once again have the chance to display their creative and expressive talents to the community in the upcoming Anoka Children's Theatre (ACT) production of "The Just So Stories."
Join the Kipling children and their friends as they act out the adventurous animal stories from their father's new book. Lively action, intriguing stories and colorful characters will delight the audience in this play for all ages. A total of 30 students in grades four through eight from 15 Anoka-Hennepin schools will be performing.
Public performances of "The Just So Stories" are Friday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, April 5 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, April 6 at 2 p.m. at the Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts auditorium. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children (18 and under) and can be purchased at the door or by calling the ACT Box Office at 763-506-5114. Reservations are accepted through April 11.
ACT, which began in January 1990, is an Anoka-Hennepin Community Education fine arts program that is open to any district student in grades four through eight. The program has two productions a year. Students rehearse for eight weeks before presenting three performances.
Since its birth, ACT has grown, with the cast size ranging from 20 to 52 and audience size from 100 to over 3000 patrons. ACT has performed a variety of plays, including, "The Little Mermaid," "Charlotte's Web," and "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." Some community sponsors in the past have included: the Anoka American Legion, Medtronic, Chase Manhattan Bank, the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation, the Anoka Rotary and a variety of local businesses.
For more information on ACT, visit: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/act or call Sheila Moller, production coordinator at 763-506-1023, or Diane Whitcraft, Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts Community Education coordinator at 763-506-5012.
7. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement. There are two sessions: one for professionals who work with children and one for parents.
In a world where children are often given the message that the ends justify the means; where harmful even violent behavior goes unnoticed; where children's ethical education can come from a T-shirt slogan, an Internet site or the evening news, the "Just because it's not wrong doesn't make it right" workshop is an essential tool for professionals who work with children and parents.
In this workshop with the internationally renowned author, Barbara Coloroso, participants will learn how they can help guide children's ethical lives using everyday situations at home, at school, in social settings and in the world at large.
Participants will learn:
• The overall concept of ethics and the reasons why it is important to teach children and teens to think and act ethically.
• Deterrents that can impair the ability for adults and children to act ethically, including hating, hoarding and harming.
• Strategies for helping children and teens understand their choices and their ability to make ethical decisions.
The event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement, Anoka County Child Abuse Prevention Council and Connexus Energy.
The workshop for parents is Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka. This event is free. Call 763-433-4145 to register.
The workshop for professionals who work with children is Tuesday, April 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Blvd. N.W., Ramsey. The cost of this event is $25 with certificates of attendance available. Download the registration form in the district's online document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter. Click on the "Backpack Online" folder.
For more information, contact Donna McDonald, Violence Prevention coordinator - Anoka County Community Health Department, at 763-422-7047 or at: donna.mcdonald@co.anoka.mn.us.
8. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Summer Enrichment Institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science Summer Enrichment Institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 6 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19604
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Scholarships may be available. Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
9. School Board approves 2008-09 school year calendar
The Anoka-Hennepin School Board approved the 2008-09 school year calendar at the Feb. 25 board meeting. Electronic PDF copies of the 2008-09 calendars will be available to download on the district Web site in a few weeks at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/calendars.
The 2008-09 year begins after Labor Day on Sept. 2 and the final day is June 11. Winter break is a full two weeks, starting on Dec. 22 and running through Jan. 2, with school resuming on Jan. 5, 2009. Spring break is a full week, March 2 to 6, with school resuming on March 9. Please note that parent-teacher conference days and times are scheduled individually by each school. Key dates for students are listed below.
Click here for a list of key dates in the A-H News section.
10. 2008 Anoka-Hennepin Writing Contest update
Contest update: Judges are currently reviewing entries for the 2008 Anoka-Hennepin School District Writing Contest. Student winners (only) will be notified by May 12.
11. Young Scientists Roundtable a huge success
More than 500 people attended the March 10 Young Scientist Roundtable at Jackson Middle School, far exceeding the staff expectations for the first-ever event. Curious visitors turned up from as far away as Eden Prairie.
Dr. Lawrence Rudnick, University of Minnesota Department of Astronomy, spoke about the largest hole ever discovered in the universe. University of Minnesota astronomy researchers Martha Boyer and L. Andrew Helton talked about the infrared Spitzer Space Telescope. The ExploraDome, a traveling planetarium from the Minnesota Planetarium, was available as well as the Jackson Observatory.
Principal Tom Sullivan thanked the staff of Jackson and those from other schools who helped out as well. The Young Scientist Roundtable was a cooperative effort of the General Mills Foundation, the Vernon James Pick Foundation and FilmTec Corporation.
12. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools observed I Love to Read Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to read. In many schools, students kept track of minutes spent reading or the number of books read, working toward individual or school goals. Some schools had book give-aways, book exchanges, guest readers and artists in residence.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month.
ANOKA HIGH SCHOOL
Anoka High School celebrated I Love to Read Month and Black History Month with featured urban literature selections in the school's media center, said Pam Leindecker, media generalist for Anoka High School.
The featured books include "The Rose That Grew from Concrete," by Tupac Shakur and the "Bluford" book series, as well as books from authors Octavia Butler, Sharon Draper and Walter Dean Myers.
"So far it has been a great success," said Leindecker.
CHAMLPIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Champlin Elementary School hosted a family "Camp Out-Read" event in the school's cafeteria on Tuesday, Feb. 26 to celebrate I Love to Read Month. About 50 families attended, said Principal Neil Klund-Schubert.
Families got cozy with camping chairs, sleeping bags, blankets, pillows and pajamas and read as a family for the night. The event also featured a book swap and saw participants recite the "The Reader's Oath" as a group. Parent volunteers assisted with the book swap. The event was organized by Julie Petersen, first grade teacher, and Joan Peterson, media generalist.
HAMILTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Hamilton Elementary School kicked off the month with "Hot Shots Night," in which parents and children participate in fun activities. Scores are kept and turned in for prizes.
The school's theme for the month was, "Read Around Minnesota." Students "visit" eight locations, which are documented on a large map in each classroom and mark their journeys with stickers. The goal was to read 360,000 minutes. Several Hamilton teachers performed a short play on the different cities and towns featured in the activities. A video was also produced. The school also had a sculpture and wall art contest based on the "Read Around Minnesota" theme.
Hamilton ended the celebration with a ceremony on March 12. Medallions were awarded to every student who read 700 minutes or more.
"It is probably the biggest thing we do all year and just about everyone is involved in some way," said Diane Merritt, principal.
L.O. JACOB ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
L.O. Jacob Elementary School participated in several activities on Dr. Seuss' birthday on Monday, March 3 to celebrate reading:
• The theme for the day was pajama day.
• Six mystery readers were featured throughout the day who read a passage from a Dr. Seuss book. Students were encouraged to guess the reader and the book.
• The small gym was open for classroom teachers to have a half-hour "Read Out."
• The lunchroom staff played a Dr. Seuss video during all lunch periods. Two Target Northtown employees also came to read with students.
• The Title I Department treated their students to the annual "Dr. Seuss Café," in which the Title teachers pretended to be waitresses in a café. Students selected Dr. Seuss books from a menu created by teachers. Books were put into the following categories: appetizer (easy), lunch (medium) and dessert (hard).
"Students would first choose an appetizer and we would write the order down and get their book from the 'kitchen,'" said Jen Galvin, Title I teacher. "When they finished, we would get them a lunch item and then a dessert book. It was a lot of fun. The students love to go to the café every year!"
MADISON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (UPDATE)
Principal Cindy Hitt transformed herself into Ms. Frizzle, a character from the Magic School Bus series, on Monday, March 3 to celebrate students reaching the goal of reading more than 1,200 books during I Love to Read Month. Hitt's transformation was complete with orange, sparkly hair and glasses and a modified battery-powered ATV that she rode through the school's hallways. Students lined the hallways to cheer her on, said Sandy Perkerwicz, Madison media specialist.
In 2007, Hitt had her hair dyed "Madison Mustang Blue" when students reached their goal of reading 1,000 books during the month.
Read more about Madison's activities in the A-H News section (see link below).
RUM RIVER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Rum River Elementary School celebrated I Love to Read Month with the sports theme, "Read More and Score." Students read at home, filled out reading slips and had the opportunity to win books. Each week 60 books were give away (10 to each grade level, 240 books total for the month). Rum River's parent group, RAFT, provided funding for all of the books.
The school also had special weekly guest readers, including student athletes from the University of Minnesota, Andover High School, Anoka High School and Congresswoman Michele Bachmann.
Students and staff dressed up in their favorite sports apparel on Wednesdays and many teachers decorated their doors with their favorite sport.
SAND CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Sand Creek Elementary School kicked off I Love to Read Month with "Bango for Books" on Feb. 8 in which the Coon Rapids Lions donated $2,000 worth of new books. Each child received a new book.
Other activities include: bully busters, "Drop Everything and Read" events, mystery books, trivia and an all-school read aloud. The school also held an all-school movie night in which students and parents viewed a movie based on a book read in the all-school read aloud.
Sand Creek Elementary School ended the month with its annual "Sand Creek Café" event. The evening consisted of coffee, cocoa, a storyteller, an illustrator, a cartoonist, an author, a book walk, book give-aways, book exchange and a "Deal or No Deal" event.
"The goal of the event is to have every student leave with at least one brand new book, a handful of new used books and a renewed love of literacy," said Paul Anderson, principal.
WILSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Wilson Elementary School's theme for I Love to Read Month was "Saddle Up and Read!" Students were encouraged to meet the weekly reading goal set for their grade level. Kindergarten through second grade students' goal was to read 100 minutes weekly, third through fifth grade students' goal was to read 150 minutes weekly. Students who meet the program's weekly goal and turn in their sheets will receive a gold medal at the March 25 awards ceremony.
"Special Bookeroos" were drawn from the names of students who turned in their reading sheets to have their photo taken for the in school announcements. The winners also received a free book for themselves and books for their classroom libraries.
Principal Diane Henning will dress up as western character as a reward if students meet the school wide goal of reading 600,000 minutes.
View more school examples and photos in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19783.
13. Schools celebrate Black History Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools are observing Black History Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to learn more about important African-Americans figures in history.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month:
ANOKA HIGH SCHOOL
(See Anoka High School's I Love to Read Month entry)
HAMILTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Historical Perspectives presented information on Madam C.J. Walker during Black History Month to Hamilton Elementary School students. Walker was born in 1867 to former slaves and transformed herself from an uneducated farm laborer and laundress into one of the 20th century's most successful, self-made women entrepreneurs by selling her own hair care products.
Madam Walker has been listed in past editions of the Guinness Book of World Records as the first self-made American woman millionaire, who neither inherited her money nor married someone who was a millionaire. For more information on Walker, visit: http://www.madamecjwalker.com.
View more school examples and photos in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19772.
Elementary School News and Events:
14. Public invited to elementary "Schools of Excellence" celebrations, March 26 and May 14
Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools have been named Schools of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association.
Johnsville Elementary in Blaine and Oxbow Creek Elementary in Champlin were among eight schools statewide to achieve the seven-year designation this year. Since MESPA began giving out the award in 1986, only two Anoka-Hennepin schools have achieved the honor: Andover Elementary in 1993 and McKinley Elementary in 1996.
Johnsville's celebration will be March 26 at 6:30 p.m. at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. NE, Blaine. Oxbow Creek will hold a celebration in conjunction with track and field day on May 14 from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. outside the school, 6505 109th Ave. N., Champlin. The public is invited to attend both celebrations.
Click on the following link to read the entire article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19945.
15. Hoover Elementary School art extravaganza March 27
The public is invited to attend Hoover Elementary School's annual art extravaganza event on Thursday, March 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature student artwork, displays and more!
Hoover Elementary School is located at 2369 109th Ave. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
16. Hamilton Elementary School 11th annual craft and garage sale April 5
Hamilton Elementary will host its 11th annual craft and garage sale on Saturday, April 5 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event will feature a variety of crafts and items from participating sellers. The money made from renting tables and concession stand sales will benefit the Hamilton Children's Sunshine fund, which helps purchase school supplies, warm winter clothing and other necessary items for students in need. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Call the school at 763-506-2700 for more information. Hamilton Elementary School is located at 1374 111th Ave. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
17. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
18. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
19. Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School named Magnet School of Distinction
The Magnet Schools of America (MSA) has recognized Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary as a 2008 School of Distinction. Evergreen Park Principal Jill Griffith-McRaith and Curriculum Integration Coordinator Jodi Baker will travel to Chattanooga, Tenn., to accept the award for their school. The award will be presented April 30 at the MSA awards luncheon.
The award recognizes innovative instruction programs that promote equity, diversity and academic excellence for all students through public school choice programs. The application included sections about the school's demographics, innovative instructional strategies, student assessment, and parent and community involvement.
In the past four years, Evergreen Park has gone from a prospective International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme school to a fully authorized program. The school has transformed itself into one that reflects the multicultural nature of the students it serves, with flags and displays from all over the world.
The Anoka-Hennepin School District is part of the Northwest Suburban Integration School District, which was formed in 2001 in response to Minnesota's Desegregation Rule. The district includes seven member districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Buffalo, Elk River, Fridley, Osseo and Rockford.
Middle School News and Events:
20. Anoka-Hennepin Middle School Jazz Festival March 28
The public is invited to attend the Anoka-Hennepin Middle School Jazz festival on Friday, March 28 at Oak View Middle School at 6:30 p.m. The event will feature performances from Coon Rapids, Jackson, Roosevelt and Oak View middle schools.
The event is free and open to the public. Come and enjoy a relaxed evening of jazz music! Oak View Middle School is located at: 15400 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
21. Sandburg Middle School artwork on display in St. Paul during month of March
Contemporary fiber art dolls created by 285 sixth graders at Sandburg Middle School will be on display during the month of March at the Black Dog Café in St. Paul. The public is invited and encouraged to view the dolls on display.
Sandburg art teacher Cynthia Adbulla assigned her students to create a doll that symbolized themselves, their hobbies, a loved one or other topic that interested them as a class project. The end result was amazing, said Abdulla. Each doll was hand-sewn and designed by students and features an accompanying story written by a student.
"I was so touched by the work that I felt they needed to be seen by the community," said Abdulla, who is also a fiber artist. "They are really amazing and very personal."
View photos of the dolls in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19929.
The Black Dog Café is located a 308 Prince St. in St. Paul, phone: 651-228-9274, Web: www.blackdogstpaul.com.
High School News and Events:
22. Blaine High School fourth annual Swing Dance March 28
Are you interested in learning how to swing dance? If so, you'll want to check out Blaine High School's fourth annual Swing Dance on Friday, March 28 at 6:30 p.m. The event will feature swing dance lessons from local instructors and music from the Blaine High School Jazz I and II ensembles and a special guest appearance from Andover High School's Jazz I ensemble.
Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. The family rate is $20. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
23. Blaine High School to host Minnesota Percussion Association preliminary event March 29
The public is invited to attend the Minnesota Percussion Association winter drum line preliminaries at Blaine High School on Saturday, March 29 at 5 p.m. The event will feature performances from 14 Minnesota and Wisconsin high school drum lines, including Anoka, Blaine and Coon Rapids high schools.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors and are available at the door. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
24. Coon Rapids High School FCCLA "Stop the Violence" walk-a-thon April 5
The public is invited to participate in Coon Rapids High School's "Stop the Violence" walk-a-thon on Saturday, April 5 at the school's track. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with the event starting at 10 a.m.
The event is sponsored by the Coon Rapids High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) group. The cost of the event is $10. Proceeds from the event will benefit Alexandra House, a domestic violence shelter in Anoka County.
Donations of bottled water, granola bars, fruit snacks and door prizes (like gift certificates, coupons, merchandise and services) are welcomed.
Registration forms are available to download at: http://www.freewebs.com/crhswalkathon or in the main office at Coon Rapids High School. Registrations received by 1 p.m. on April 2 are guaranteed a T-shirt. Registrations will also be accepted on the day of the event.
For more information or to donate items, contact Karen Sherga, Coon Rapids FCCLA advisor, at 763-506-7357 or at: Karen.Sherga@anoka.k12.mn.us. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
College and Career Planning Events:
25. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
26. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
27. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students, their parents and community members.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: March 27 at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:20 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. This is the seventh year of hosting the fair for Blaine and the first year for Champlin Park.
Enter through the fieldhouse doors at Blaine. Enter the fieldhouse from the lower level parking lot on the east side at Champlin Park. Any schools or staff outside of Blaine and Champlin Park wishing to bring groups of students need to contact Barb Rice at 763-506-6548 or Pam Baker at 763-506-6844.
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• College Week Live: March 25 and 26 online at: http:www.collegeweeklive.com from noon to 11 p.m. (Eastern). More than 150 colleges will be represented online, with representatives and student panelists available for live discussions and questions.
• Normandale Community College: Wednesday, March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. More than 100 public and private, two-year, four-year, technical and military organizations will be present. Go to: http://www.mn-acac.org for more specific information.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to: http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
28. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days, college and career preparation opportunities and prepare college options information. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace or gain valuable college prep information. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours, college and career prep workshops available at your student's high school.
Here is an upcoming date for information on the Post Secondary Education Option (PSEO) and career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Medicine, March 27
Physical Therapy, April 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
29. Anoka-Hennepin Destination ImagiNation teams advance to state competition
Four teams from the Anoka-Hennepin School District were winners at the North Metro Regional Destination ImagiNation creative problem-solving tournament March 8 at Blaine High School. They advance to state competition April 19 at Chaska High School.
The Destination ImagiNation program helps students build important, lifelong skills, such as problem solving, teamwork and divergent thinking.
Approximately 130 teams of K-12 students competed in the North Metro regional tournament. They competed in six different problems and four age divisions. The following is a list of Anoka-Hennepin teams that placed first through third in their category during the North Metro Regional DI tournament March 8. Teams with an asterick advanced to the state tournament:
DI'VE GOT A SECRET: ELEMENTARY LEVEL
Ramsey Elementary School, third place
SWITCH: ELEMENTARY LEVEL
Eisenhower Elementary School, third place (tie)
University Avenue Elementary School, third place
SWITCH: SECONDARY LEVEL
*Blaine High School, second place
*Coon Rapids High School, first place (competed at the East Metro Regional DI tournament on March 1 due to a conflict in their schedule)
HIT OR MYTH: ELEMENTARY LEVEL
*Jefferson Elementary School, second place
Riverview Specialty School, third place
OBSTACLES, OF COURSE: MIDDLE LEVEL
*Sandburg Middle School, first place
Community Education News and Events:
30. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
The Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is seeking people interested in coaching for the following after school spring athletic teams:
Oak View Middle School
Contact Nancy Knop at 763-506-5612
1) Fastpitch softball
2) Track and field
If you or someone you know is interested in these after school coaching positions, contact the person listed for each school.
31. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1, 2008). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
32. Classes available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
DAD: YOUR MOST IMPORTANT TITLE
Now, more than ever, dads' play a critical role in the lives of their children. Class participants will discuss the challenges of keeping work at the office and how dads' can make the most of the time they have with their families. This class is specially designed for fathers. Instructor: Stephen Onell, Fathers First!
• Monday, March 23 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
• Class fee: $9 per person
YOU'RE NOT MY FRIEND
Does this sound familiar? Participants will discuss why children say these and other comments to their friends, as well as explore the methods for assisting children with their feelings and how we can help them with the dynamics of friendships. Instructor: Pam Bohm
• Monday, March 31 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St, Anoka
• Class fee: $9 per person
SIBSHOPS
Siblings, ages five through 12, of children with disabilities are invited to participate in Arc's Sibshops on the second Saturday of each month. This is a great way to have fun with others who understand the challenges of having a sibling with disabilities. Offered in collaboration with Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program.
• Second Saturday of the month: April 12 and May 10 at the Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center, 2740 Wingfield Ave., Anoka from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
• Free for Arc members; $10 per child for non-members.
• Call Arc at 952-920-0855 to register for this class.
Contact Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement at 763-506-1278 or at: Pam.Naegele@anoka.k12.mn.us with questions, to register for classes or to receive a hard copy brochure of classes sponsored by Parent Involvement.
Reaching Out
33. Franklin Elementary K-Kids participate in "Drop Your Socks" and "Pennies for Patients"
In January, the Franklin Elementary School Kiwanis Kids (K-Kids) Club sponsored the "Drop Your Socks" collection during the school's annual Silver Skate event. In February, Franklin students made valentines during their Character Education classes. The valentines, along with the socks, were sent to the St. Cloud VA Hospital to be distributed during the national salute to hospitalized veterans.
In February, the Franklin K-Kids Club also collected $5,370.15 in its annual "Pennies for Patients" fundraiser. The money raised goes to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to be used for patient services and research.
34. Monroe Elementary School participates in "Pennies for Patients"
During the week of Jan. 14 through 18, Monroe Elementary students collected $2,288.07 in the school's "Pennies for Patients" fundraiser. The event was sponsored by the Monroe student council.
Each day of the collection had a theme :
Monday, Jan. 14 was penny day
Tuesday, Jan. 15 was nickel day
Wednesday, Jan. 16 was dime day
Thursday, Jan. 17 was quarter day
Friday, Jan. 18 was hat day (students could wear a hat in school for $1)
Each classroom had a milk jug or two to fill. At the end of the week the jugs were weighed. Two classrooms won receive pizza parties from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for the "heaviest" donations.
35. Sandburg Middle School launches new campaign, "Sandburg Saves Lives"
On Tuesday, Jan. 29, Sandburg Middle School kicked off a new campaign called, "Sandburg Saves Lives," sponsored by the school's student council and St. Jude Children's Hospital.
During the event, students and staff wrote letters to friends, neighbors and family members to help rally against childhood cancer. A "Pennies for Patients" penny war was also conducted from Feb. 4 through 7 in which all grades and staff competed against eacher to see who could raise the most money.
During the war, pennies equaled positive points while silver and paper equaled negative points. Students could wear a hat or pajama bottoms to school for a day by donating $1. The penny war raised $1,400 for St. Jude's.
The following homebase classes wrote the most letters during the event and earned a pizza party on March 14:
Bob Cahow's eighth grade homebase class, 343 letters
Holly Johnson's sixth grade homebase class, 242 letters
Carol Brown's seventh grade homebase class, 108 letters
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Backpack Online #20 - District launches Action of the School board, 2007 TIES Exceptional Teachers and 2008 TOP Award winners. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
2. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program, deadline is March 7
3. Anoka-Hennepin Destination ImagiNation tournament on March 8, judges needed!
4. Crooked Lake Elementary School carnival March 8
5. Young Scientist Roundtable event at Jackson Middle School open to district students, March 10
School Board News:
6. District launches Action of the School Board e-newsletter
General News and Events:
7. This week was School Social Work Week
8. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
9. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
10. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
11. Jay Huemann and Kathy Pearce named 2007 TIES Exceptional Teachers
12. Stay healthy this winter - important reminder from Anoka-Hennepin Health Services Department
13. 2008 Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) Award winners
14. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Wilson Elementary School annual arts and academic fair March 13
16. Hoover Elementary School art extravaganza March 27
17. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
18. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
19. Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools are Schools of Excellence
Middle School News and Events:
20. Sandburg Middle School presents "Willy Wonka Jr" March 12 and 13
21. Sandburg Middle School artwork on display in St. Paul during month of March
High School News and Events:
22. Anoka High School students take a virtual journey to space with Minnesota Planetarium's ExploraDome
23. Students take to books at Champlin Park High School
College and Career Planning Events:
24. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
25. High school career centers open to public (link)
26. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
27. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
Student Success:
28. National Merit Scholarship Program finalists announced
Community Education News and Events:
29. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
30. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
31. Kindergarten prep ramping up in Anoka-Hennepin
32. Classes available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
33. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
34. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Upcoming Events:
1. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
Happiness and sadness, surprise and anger are familiar emotions to many, yet few can capture them in words. The 2008 Writing Contest for Anoka-Hennepin School District students encourages students in first through fifth grades to do just that.
The contest information flier asks students to think of a time when something happened in their lives that created a strong feeling and write about it, describing smells, sounds, actions and people around them to help the reader see the experience for themselves.
Judges are looking for an imaginative title, organized beginning, middle and ending, interesting details or dialogue, correct spelling and punctuation and originality.
Stories are limited to 500 words and will be judged in four categories: first and second grade, third grade, fourth grade and fifth grade. Cash prizes will be awarded in each category, including first through third places and up to three honorable mentions.
The contest is open to students who live in or attend school in Anoka-Hennepin. Entries are due by March 11 (postmarked by March 7) and may be sent to Creative Writing Contest, c/o McKinley Elementary School, 1740 Constance Blvd., Ham Lake, MN 55304-6797.
The contest is co-sponsored by the Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the Anoka-Hennepin Education Foundation.
2. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program, deadline to apply is March 7
The Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program (SAMMY) recognizes outstanding grade 12 scholar athletes throughout the country and provides an opportunity for students to win a $7,500 college scholarship.
Through March 7, teachers, coaches, principals, guidance counselors, athletic directors, parents and relatives can nominate a student athlete for the SAMMY 2008 Award. High school seniors can also nominate themselves.
Judging of the nominees will be based on five criteria: academic performance, athletic excellence, leadership, community service and milk experience.
SAMMY 2008 applications will only be accepted online at: http://www.bodybymilk.com until March 7. America's Milk Processors and USA sponsor SAMMY TODAY. For official rules, visit
http://www.bodybymilk.com
.
3. Anoka-Hennepin Destination ImagiNation tournament March 8, judges needed!
The public is invited to attend the district's annual Destination ImagiNation event on Saturday, March 8 at Blaine High School from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Team challenges begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at approximately 3 p.m.
Destination ImagiNation is a creative problem solving competition for K-12 students. The atmosphere at the competition is one of energy, enthusiasm, excitement and amazement at the creativity of students as they present solutions to "team challenges" they have been developing for months. Students also participate in an "instant challenge" in which they are given a problem to solve on the spot in a few minutes.
Judges are needed for the event. You don't need to be an expert to be a judge! Past judges have come back year after year to experience the excitement of the day. One experienced judge said, "What these kids can do will just blow your socks off!" All judges will receive a free T-shirt, snacks and lunch. Judges are to check in at 8 a.m. at the front desk in the school's main lobby.
To register as a judge, contact Deb Perriello at 763-506-1113 or at: Deb.Perriello@anoka.k12.mn.us. Destination ImagiNation is free and open the public. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. NE, Blaine.
4. Crooked Lake Elementary School carnival March 8
The public is invited to attend Crooked Lake Elementary School's annual carnival on Saturday, March 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Crooked Lake Parent Teacher Organization (CLPTO) and will feature a silent auction, bingo (the best kept secret at Crooked Lake), cake walk, pizza walk, a large variety of carnival games and two inflatable events.
Game prices start at just 25 cents. Food is available for purchase, including Mansetti's pizza. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call Crooked Lake Elementary at 763-506-2100. The school is located at 2939 Bunker Lake Blvd. in Andover.
5. Young Scientist Roundtable event at Jackson Middle School open to district students, March 10
The Young Scientist Roundtable will host a special event at Jackson Middle School on Monday, March 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. District students and families are invited to participated in four exciting activities to learn about the sky:
• Learn about the telescope at Jackson Middle School and have a chance to see first hand what the winter night sky holds: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/jms.
• Listen to Dr. Lawrence Rudnick, University of Minnesota, Department of Astronomy, discuss the largest hole ever discovered in the universe, plus the science of nothingness, including issues like the spaces inside and between atoms and the empty regions of space.
• Listen to Martha L. Boyer and L. Andrew Helton, University of Minnesota, Department of Astronomy researchers, discuss the Spitzer Space Telescope, which allows astronomers to see in the infrared, just like night-vision goggles.
• Experience the traveling planetarium from the Minnesota Planetarium ExploraDome: http://www.mplanetarium.org.
Anoka-Hennepin is a participating district in the Young Scientist Roundtable program, which offers students in grades K-12 an opportunity to hear exciting ideas and developments in many scientific fields presented by experts. All Anoka-Hennepin students and their families are encouraged to attend. There is no cost to district families. No registration required.
The Young Scientist Roundtable is funded by the General Mills Foundation, the Vernon James Pick Foundation and FilmTec Corporation. Participating school districts make member contributions.
School Board News:
6. District launches Action of the School Board e-newsletter
The Communications and Public Relations Department has announced the launch of the Action of the School Board e-newsletter, available to download on the district Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/actionsb.
The Action of the School Board e-newsletter provides brief summaries of Anoka-Hennepin School Board meetings for staff and the general public in PDF format. PDFs of the Jan. 14, Jan. 28, Feb. 11 and Feb. 25 meetings are available to view.
Complete minutes of School Board meetings are published on the district's Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/schoolboard and in the school district's legal newspapers:
• Anoka County Union
• Blaine Life
• Coon Rapids Herald
• Champlin Dayton Press
• Brooklyn Park Sun-Post
• Brooklyn Center Sun-Post
General News and Events:
7. This week was School Social Work Week
The week of March 3 through 7 was School Social Work Week throughout the country. School social workers serve as vital members of a school's educational team and play a central role in creating partnerships between the home, school and community to ensure student academic success. Currently in the Anoka-Hennepin District, there are 28 licensed school social workers serving students.
Click on the following link to view the resolution passed in the U.S. House of Representatives recognizing the important work of school social workers: http://www.sswaa.org/HRes978Enrolled.pdf.
8. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
Parents, students, colleagues and others are invited to nominate an exemplary teacher-one who is improving student achievement, using innovative strategies, and making a difference in the lives of students-for an American Stars of Teaching award. The award, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors superior teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of their students.
Nominations are accepted through March 31. Winners will be announced this fall. For more information or to nominate someone, visit: http://www.t2tweb.us/AmStar/About.asp.
9. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement. There are two sessions: one for professionals who work with children and one for parents.
In a world where children are often given the message that the ends justify the means; where harmful even violent behavior goes unnoticed; where children's ethical education can come from a T-shirt slogan, an Internet site or the evening news, the "Just because it's not wrong doesn't make it right" workshop is an essential tool for professionals who work with children and parents.
In this workshop with the internationally renowned author, Barbara Coloroso, participants will find out how they can help guide children's ethical lives using everyday situations at home, at school, in social settings and in the world at large.
Participants will learn:
• The overall concept of ethics and the reasons why it is important to teach children and teens to think and act ethically
• Deterrents that can impair the ability for adults and children to act ethically, including hating, hoarding and harming
• Strategies for helping children and teens understand their choices and their ability to make ethical decisions
The event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement, Anoka County Child Abuse Prevention Council and Connexus Energy.
The workshop for professionals who work with children is Tuesday, April 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Blvd. N.W., Ramsey. The cost of this event is $25 with certificates of attendance available. Download the registration form in the district's online document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter. Click on the "Backpack Online" folder.
The workshop for parents is Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka. This event is free. Call 763-433-4145 to register.
For more information, contact Donna McDonald, Violence Prevention coordinator - Anoka County Community Health Department, at 763-422-7047 or at: donna.mcdonald@co.anoka.mn.us.
10. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 7 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19604
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Scholarships may be available. Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
11. Stay healthy this winter - important reminder from Anoka-Hennepin Health Services Department
The death of a 12-year-old Minnesota child last week from influenza (commonly called flu) is a reminder that flu can be a very serious illness. Anoka-Hennepin Health Services Department would like to remind parents to take the most important step in preventing spread of influenza and other illnesses - emphasize to your children the importance of washing hands thoroughly.
Pediatric influenza deaths are, fortunately, uncommon among children. In Minnesota, typically zero to few such deaths are reported annually. This child's death does not necessarily indicate that children are at higher risk for influenza complications or death this season. The best protection against influenza is to get a flu shot and be sure to practice frequent hand washing, staying home when ill and covering your cough with a tissue or coughing into your sleeve.
School outbreaks continue to increase, with 42 outbreaks reported during the week of Feb. 17. It may be difficult to get a flu shot this late in the flu season, so the Anoka-Hennepin Health Services Department recommends practicing through hand washing.
Click on the following link to read more about hand washing from Anoka-Hennepin Health Services:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19193.
12. Jay Huemann and Kathy Pearce named 2007 TIES Exceptional Teachers
Jay Huemann and Kathy Pearce are the recipients of the 2007 TIES Exceptional Teacher Awards, which recognizes teachers for creative use of technology. Central administrators and colleagues nominated Huemann and Pearce for the award. A total of 60 teachers from 32 school districts received the honor.
The teachers were honored Dec. 11 at the TIES 2007 Education Technology Conference. They were featured in the TIES Exceptional Teachers publication, and will be recognized by the Anoka-Hennepin School Board at a future meeting date.
Huemann has been the technology teacher at Oxbow Creek Elementary School for the past five years. His daily interaction with staff and students creates a climate where using technology for teaching and learning is standard operating procedure. Huemann's practice of working alongside other teachers gives them a model of how technology can be used to support student learning, said Randy Edinger, technology facilitator.
"Huemann's energy, passion, humor and expertise make him a highly effective leader in the use of instructional technology," said Edinger.
For Huemann, the best part of the job is seeing students get so excited about technology that they go home and share what they've learned with their parents. As an active geocacher, Huemann has spent a great deal of time out-of-doors teaching students and adults the mysteries of operating a GPS device.
Huemann is also a recipient of the 200 Anoka-Hennepin Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) Award, which recognizes excellence in teaching, and serves as a clinician at local conferences, workshops and other technology venues.
Pearce is in her second year as the technology teacher at Coon Rapids High School. She has been very successful in helping the teaching staff integrate technology into the learning day, said Gordy Grant, technology facilitator. Two of the many tasks teachers are asked to do in the school district are the creating and maintaining of a teacher/class Web presence and the posting of student marks and grades so parents have access to the progress of their child. "Pearce has played a key role in significant progress being made toward the goal of 100 percent teacher participation at her school," said Grant.
In working with the school staff development team, Pearce has focused on both staff requests and the time to practice. The areas of training include classroom presentations using projection and software such as PowerPoint, electronic interactive whiteboards and student response systems. She also works with groups of students in getting them ready for classroom projects using such tools as editing, outlining, grammar checking and graphics.
Getting teachers the time and/or pay for learning new technologies has been a big part of what Pearce has done at Coon Rapids High School, said Grant. In addition to setting up classes before and after school, she has designed a schedule that allows teachers to have training during their workday by bringing in a team of guest teachers to take the classroom instruction while the teacher attends session in the Tech Training Center.
13. 2008 Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) Award winners
The Anoka-Hennepin School District is pleased to announce the 2008 Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) Award* winners. These 20 winners represent less than 1 percent of teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. They will be recognized formally at a ceremony in early May. The TOP Award is now in its 12th year, after being started with a grant from the Medtronic Foundation. The award is now co-sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation and the district. Approximately 70 teachers were nominated for this award by parents, students and community members based on 11 criteria: sensitivity, knowledge, creativity, uses creative strategies, leadership, modeling, fairness, enthusiasm, resourceful, commitment, and students learn.
Winners receive a $600 grant to use for staff development. At the award ceremony four of the TOP teachers will be selected for an additional $1,000 grant for a special project, plus $500 in cash provided by the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation.
2008 TEACHER OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE AWARD WINNERS
Doug Bakkum, Andover High School
Sally Critchley, Andover Elementary School
Lexi Hilmoe, Morris Bye Elementary School
Tara Hoffman, Anoka High School
Helen Kernik, University Avenue Elementary School
Jon Kohnen, Oxbow Creek Elementary School
Rita Lanners, Hamilton Elementary School
Shane Long, Sand Creek Elementary School
Tom McKeon, Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP)
Julie Nave, Champlin Elementary School
Elizabeth Nordin, Oak View Middle School
Bruce Olson, Blaine High School
Abbey Payeur, Oak View Middle School
Margie Pierfelice, Oxbow Creek Elementary
Julie Rentner, Rum River Elementary School
Mike Riha, Coon Rapids High School
Scott Schaefer, Sand Creek Elementary School
Barb Schaust, Oak View Middle School
Carla Rae Smith, Jackson Middle School
Tina Tamura, Northdale Middle School
*Anoka-Hennepin's TOP Award is for Anoka-Hennepin teachers only. It should not be confused with a teacher award of a similar title that is sponsored by FOX 9 TV.
14. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools observed I Love to Read Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to read. In many schools, students kept track of minutes spent reading or the number of books read, working toward individual or school goals. Some schools had book give-aways, book exchanges, guest readers and artists in residence.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month. View more school examples and photos in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19783.
EVERGREEN PARK WORLD STUDIES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Feb. 29 was a day for all kinds of celebrations at Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School (an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme) in Brooklyn Center. Students started the day by celebrating Read Across America Day, a nationwide celebration of reading and the birthday of Dr. Seuss.
At Evergreen Park, students and their parents enjoyed muffins and orange juice while they read books in the school gym. Teachers and staff members greeted everyone in cheerful hats - many wore "Cat in the Hat"-style red-and-white-striped ones.
The day continued with guest readers in most of the school's classrooms. Readers included the mayors of Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park, members of the Brooklyn Center Police Department (including the police chief), several city council members, retired school district employees and parents.
Reading has been the topic all month long through the school's Books and Beyond reading incentive program. Students in kindergarten through second grade read 10 pages for every sheet they turn in. Third through fifth-graders read 200 pages for each sheet. Students received a prize for up to five sheets. Each student who completes the program will be presented with a medal during a special ceremony.
MISSISSIPPI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Mississippi staff and students made I Love to Read month an exciting adventure with participation in the following activities:
• Mississippi students read the book "Doll People" by Ann Martin during the school's read aloud. A tiny doll was hidden in different locations throughout the school from Feb. 11 to 29. Students who found the doll received a special treat.
• During the week of Feb. 4, a Dr. Seuss hat was passed around to each classroom. When a classroom received the hat, they had to "stop, drop and read." Students received bookmarks during this activity.
• The school featured mystery readers from Feb. 25 through March 3 during morning announcements. Student were encouraged to guess who the reader was.
• The Lions Club came to Mississippi on Feb. 26 for "Bango for Books," in which students received a free book after playing bingo.
• Each classroom built a book that was displayed during February conferences.
Students also decorated classroom doors with favorite books, themes and student work related to a book they read in class. Grandparents and other special people were invited to share a special lunch with students.
On March 4, Mississippi held a school-wide "read-in" in the gymnasium to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss, as well as the 50th birthday of "The Cat in the Hat." Students were awarded following the celebration for minutes read during the month.
NORTHDALE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Northdale Middle School had a variety of activities planned in February to celebrate I Love to Read month:
• On Feb. 6, students compiled a list of recommended books for the school's Web site during lunch.
• On Feb. 11, art and reading classes were combined as students created bookmarks to promote reading. The winning bookmarks were placed in the school's library for student use.
• During the week of Feb. 19 students participated in a poetry and song lyric contest. Entries focused on appropriate poetry and lyrics.
• The school held a book drive from Feb. 20 through 29 to see which homeroom could collect the most books and magazines for a local non-profit organization.
Northdale also had month-long activities, comprised of book clubs that met after school, trivia questions, book talks, poetry readings, reader's theater during morning announcements, celebrity readers (including Minnesota Gopher football players, the mayors of Anoka and Blaine, police chief, firefighters, veterinarians, doctors and nurses) and a visit from special guest Will Weaver, author of "Memory Boy" and "Claws."
PETER ENICH KINDERGARTEN CENTER
Peter Enich Kindergarten Center celebrated I Love to Read month with a reading program called "Be Excited About Reading," also known as the B.E.A.R-y special readers program. The program encourages students and their families to read together at home, said Kari Rock, assistant principal.
SORTEBERG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Sorteberg Elementary School students and staff collected $685 in the school's "Pennies for Pages, Nickels for Knowledge and Dimes for Dreams" spare change campaign in February. The money was used to purchase a new book for each student on the school's literacy day on March 3. Students also participated in other events during the day to promote literacy, including hearing from a storyteller and literacy stations.
Each week throughout the month, Principal Marcia Beyer read excerpts from a book during morning announcements. Students who guessed thetitle of the book received a prize. Sorteberg also had "Character Costume Day," in which staff dressed up as a character from a book. Students received a prize for correctly guessing the characters.
WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Washington Elementary School's ILA committee planned several activities to celebrate I Love to Read month in February:
Each Monday a passage from a book was read students who guessed the correct answer at each level (primary and intermediate) received a prize.
Students participated in "Drop Everything and Read" on Tuesday, Feb. 5 in which students read for 10 minutes three times during the day. Students also participated in dress day themes. Classrooms also decorated their doors and hallways after book covers and settings from books.
During Family Fun Night, students and their families compiled a book recommendation list, and parents shared books with their child during the event. Students also received visits from special guest readers, including the mayor of Anoka, police officers, firefighters, principals from other schools and Anoka royalty.
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Wilson Elementary School annual arts and academic fair March 13
The public is invited to attend Wilson Elementary School's annual arts and academic fair on Thursday, March 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature student artwork, displays, a talent show and more!
Wilson Elementary School is located at 1025 Sunny Lane in Anoka.
16. Hoover Elementary School art extravaganza March 27
The public is invited to attend Hoover Elementary School's annual art extravaganza event on Thursday, March 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature student artwork, displays and more!
Hoover Elementary School is located at 2369 109th Ave. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
17. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
18. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
19. Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools are Schools of Excellence
Two Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools have been named Schools of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association.
Johnsville Elementary in Blaine and Oxbow Creek Elementary in Champlin were among eight schools statewide to achieve the seven-year designation this year. Since MESPA began giving out the award in 1986, only two Anoka-Hennepin schools have achieved the honor: Andover Elementary in 1993 and McKinley Elementary in 1996.
Johnsville Principal Pat Murray and Oxbow Creek Principal Rolf Carlsen see the awards as validation of their staffs' dedication to education.
"It verifies that this is a good place to be," Murray said. "Parents see it as a positive thing, and it makes them feel better about the school."
One of the best things for the principals is that the awards are about more than test scores. It's about agreeing to a process and a plan for continuous improvement, Carlsen said.
"Our teachers help kids live up to their notion of excellence," he said. "This is a place where excellence is expected, valued and celebrated."
As part of the application, each school completed a survey of parents and staff about the school's leadership, vision, student and adult learning opportunities, data-driven decision making and community engagement.
At Johnsville, the process took a year and a half and involved nearly all of the school's 58 staff members. "We identified as one of our strengths that we had all of these people working on [the application]," Murray said. He is proud that the school didn't have to make any revisions to the application - it was accepted in its first-draft format.
"I wouldn't trade one of our teachers for anyone else," Murray said. "Everyone here cares."
Carlsen said the process at Oxbow Creek was started with a commitment from the staff to move forward. After that, he tried to involve the whole staff - more than 75 people - as they completed a 50-page application packet.
It's not just about the application, both principals said, although the extensive application took more than a year to complete.
"The goal is the process," Carlsen said. "It's self-evaluation of continuous improvement. It's organized around the principles of an effective school."
Although the awards were announced this past summer, neither principal has taken great steps to publicize the honor. They are waiting until this spring, when the schools and communities can have a celebration with some distance from the levy referendum. Each celebration will include a presentation of a plaque from MESPA to be hung in each school to mark the achievement.
Johnsville's celebration will be March 26 at 6:30 p.m. at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. NE, Blaine. Oxbow Creek will hold a celebration in conjunction with track and field day on May 14 from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. outside the school, 6505 109th Ave. N., Champlin. The public is invited to attend both celebrations.
Middle School News and Events:
20. Sandburg Middle School presents "Willy Wonka Jr" March 12 and 13
The public is invited to attend Sandburg Middle School's production of the musical "Willy Wonka Jr" on Wednesday, March 12 and Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m.
Roald Dahl's timeless story of the world-famous candy man and his quest to find an heir comes to life in this stage adaptation of "Charlie and The Chocolate Factory," which features the songs from the classic family film "Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory."
Willy Wonka is a scrumdidilyumptious new stage musical guaranteed to delight everyone's sweet tooth. In a troubled world looking for escape, Willy Wonka Jr. will take you on a fantasy ride into the land of pure imagination. This show overflows with music, comedy and heart.
Tickets are available at the door for $3. Sandburg Middle School is located at 1902 Second Ave. in Anoka.
21. Sandburg Middle School artwork on display in St. Paul during month of March
Contemporary fiber art dolls created by 285 sixth graders at Sandburg Middle School will be on display during the month of March at the Black Dog Café in St. Paul. The public is invited and encouraged to view the dolls on display.
Sandburg art teacher Cynthia Adbulla assigned her students create a doll that symbolized themselves, their hobbies, a loved one or other topic that interested them as a class project. The end result was amazing, said Abdulla. Each doll was hand-sewn and designed by students and features an accompany story written by a student.
"I was so touched by the work that I felt they needed to be seen by the community," said Abdulla, who is also a fiber artist. "They are really amazing and very personal."
The opening celebration is Saturday, March 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. Refreshments will be served. View photos of the dolls in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19929.
The Black Dog Café is located a 308 Prince St. in St. Paul, phone: 651-228-9274, Web: www.blackdogstpaul.com.
High School News and Events:
22. Anoka High School students take a virtual journey to space with Minnesota Planetarium's ExploraDome
For two days in February, Anoka High School students and staff took a virtual journey from the inside of the subatomic realm to the edge of the known universe, thanks to the Minnesota Planetarium's ExploraDome.
The ExploraDome, which was set up in the school's IMC, is a 13-foot high portable dome and immersive learning environment where students experience "hands-on, minds-on" learning. You could also think of it an IMAX theater inside an inflatable igloo, said Tim Sheie, technology facilitator at Anoka High School.
Through a process of guided inquiry based on Minnesota science standards and the latest in display technology, students were able to lie back in the dome and view a wide variety of interactive explorations and full dome video presentations, from meteorology and climate to the exploration of the solar system. Some of the programs viewed by students include: Northern Lights, Night Sky, Are We Alone, Life in the Universe, Earth Science and Excerpts - Exploring the Arctic.
For students, the ExploraDome was a riveting experience. Students in Jim Hauge's physics classes learned about the magnitude of the universe by viewing the "Are We Alone?" program, which was enhanced with a 3D presentation.
"The ExploraDome exposed students to the vastness and magnitude of the universe," said Hauge. The students liked the advanced 3D audio-visual presentation. We don't have the ability to do a planetarium at our school, so it was a real treat to see something in 3D."
Afterward, Hauge's class pondered the question of whether or not there are similar planets to Earth in the solar system. The students learned that there is a good chance that there is another planet like earth that may be able to support life but that the life forms on the other planets may be different than life as we know it on earth, said Hauge.
After viewing the ExploraDone first hand at two TIES Technology Conferences, Sheie knew he had to bring it to Anoka High School. Sheie worked with Planetarium Director Joel Halvorsen to figure out a way to fund the project for the school. The two were able to secure corporate sponsorship and brought the ExploraDome to Anoka. More than 500 students and about 50 staff members were able to squeeze and wiggle their way inside the ExploraDome, said Sheie.
"In the 14 years I've been at Anoka High School, there have been very few special events that generated more interest and 'buzz' around the building that that one," said Sheie. "Lots of students were curious, and asking questions is the way to spark some learning-it sure did that! It's fabulous, and I'd highly recommend it, especially at the secondary level."
View a screen shot of one of the ExploraDome programs in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19917.
23. Students take to books at Champlin Park High School
Students at Champlin Park High School have caught on to reading in a big way this year, according to Terri Evans, media generalist. Compared to last year, the library is on course to double its circulation.
"It's busy and the kids are lined up," she said.
Evans said this year has been an extremely successful one for the library. She has started doing book talks for English classes, each centered on a theme. Some themes have included war and the immigrant experience.
The library collection has been expanded over the past year to include more foreign language titles, including books in French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Russian, Sudanese and Hmong. "Kids are so excited that we have books in their languages," she said. Having the students read in their native languages helps them progress in English skills as well, Evans said.
The important thing, she said, is just getting books into the kids' hands. Once they get started, they tell each other how great the books are. She attributed some of the success to an independent reading push this year, allowing students time for free reading - reading a book that's not tied to the curriculum. Evans said the students' eyes light up when they are told they can read whatever they want.
Some of the most popular books this year have been the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer, any book by Jodi Picoult, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, and Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.
"I want to tell our community that the money they spend is well-spent," she said. "These books are getting checked out over and over again."
Evans has gotten the whole school involved in the reading push by having the principal and assistant principals pose for a READ poster dressed as teenagers, displaying their favorite books.
View a photo of the school's READ poster online in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19921.
College and Career Planning Events:
24. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
25. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
26. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students and their parents.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: March 27 at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• College Week Live: March 25 and 26 online at http://www.collegeweeklive.com from noon to 11 p.m. (Eastern). More than 150 colleges will be represented online, with representatives and student panelists available for live discussions and questions.
• Normandale Community College: Wednesday, March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. More than 100 public and private, two-year, four-year, technical and military organizations will be present. Go to: http://www.mn-acac.org for more specific information.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
27. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days, college and career preparation opportunities and prepare college options information. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace or gain valuable college prep information. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours, college and career prep workshops available at your student's high school.
Here is an upcoming date for information on the Post Secondary Education Option (PSEO) and career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Medicine, March 27
Physical Therapy, April 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
28. National Merit Scholarship Program finalists announced
The following Anoka-Hennepin students were recently named as finalists in the National Merit Scholarship program. Approximately 15,000 of the 1.4 million students nationwide who took the Preliminary Scholarship Aptitude Test (PSAT) last fall qualify as finalists.
ANOKA HIGH SCHOOL
Zach Erickson
Derek Messer
BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL
Darbi Mueller
COON RAPIDS HIGH SCHOOL
Peter Hansen
Approximately 8,200 students will be notified between March and mid-June if they have been selected to receive a Merit Scholarship award. Three awards are available:
National Merit $2,500 Scholarships
Every finalist competes for these single payment scholarships, which are awarded on a state representational basis. Winners are selected without consideration of family financial circumstances, college choice, or major and career plans.
Corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards
Corporate sponsors designate their awards for children of their employees or members, for residents of a community where a company has operations, or for finalists with career plans the sponsor wishes to encourage. These scholarships may either be renewable for four years of undergraduate study or one-time awards.
College-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards
Officials of each sponsor college select winners of their awards from finalists who have been accepted for admission and have informed NMSC by the published deadlines that the sponsor college or university is their first choice. These awards are renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study.
Community Education News and Events:
29. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
The Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is seeking people interested in coaching for the following after school spring athletic teams:
Oak View Middle School
Contact Nancy Knop at 763-506-5612
1) Fastpitch softball
2) Track and field
If you or someone you know is interested in these after school coaching positions, contact the person listed for each school.
30. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1, 2008). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
31. Kindergarten prep ramping up in Anoka-Hennepin
Preparing children for academic success in kindergarten through high school is the foundation of two Community Education programs - Early Childhood Family Education for families with children birth to age five and School Readiness Preschool for children 3, 4 and 5 years old. Both of these programs are successful in reaching a diverse cross-section of Anoka-Hennepin families. However, more work needs to be done to engage challenged low-income families in preparing children for kindergarten.
That's about to happen with a $600,000 grant from the Minnesota Early Learning Foundation (MELF). "Every parent deserves support to guide their children through a lifetime of learning," said Marilee Christensen-Adams, ECFE/SRP Manager. "This grant allows us to explore new materials and delivery options to reach at-risk families."
Serving these families is a key component to increasing school readiness for incoming kindergartners - an issue that has received a lot of attention in recent years. A 2006 study by the Minnesota Department of Education assessed the school readiness of kindergarteners in a statewide representative sample. The study evaluated a child's readiness level as proficient, in process, or not yet ready. For the most part there have been gains statewide when compared the same study conducted in 2004. More than half the children entering kindergarten in 2006 were proficient and approximately 35 percent were in process or "developmentally on track" according to Christensen-Adams. There remains a gap of approximately 10 percent of children entering kindergarten not yet ready to learn, especially in key areas of language/literacy and mathematical thinking.
"That provides us some opportunity to boost readiness with innovative ideas targeted to low-income families," said Christensen-Adams. "We know from the state's survey that the most accurate predictor of school readiness has to do with parent education level and household income." The higher income and parent education level, the more prepared children are for lifelong learning.
The MELF grant is a collaboration among the Anoka-Hennepin, St. Paul and Waseca school districts using the Parents as Teachers Born to Learn curriculum. The shared mission is to provide parent support and education so that parents can succeed as their children's first teachers. The three-year pilot program will create customized services targeted to hard-to-reach families in urban, suburban and rural areas. Traditional ECFE services will be individualized with home visits, classroom instruction and parent support.
"This grant allows us to test the effectiveness of delivering customized services to low-income families that can be replicated statewide," said Christensen-Adams.
As a partner organization Anoka-Hennepin will receive approximately $180,000 for the three-year project term.
View a photo of this program online in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19920.
32. Classes available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
INTERVENTION: A NEW FIRST STEP?
When a child is having difficulty learning to read, the first step may be to use specially designed intervention methods often called Response to Intervention (RTI). This workshop will be presented by staff from the Minnesota Department of Education in collaboration with the PACER Center. No fee for this class.
• Monday, March 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
DAD: YOUR MOST IMPORTANT TITLE
Now, more than ever, dads' play a critical role in the lives of their children. Class participants will discuss the challenges of keeping work at the office and how dads' can make the most of the time they have with their families. This class is specially designed for fathers. Instructor: Stephen Onell, Fathers First!
• Monday, March 23 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
• Class fee: $9 per person
YOU'RE NOT MY FRIEND
Does this sound familiar? Participants will discuss why children say these and other comments to their friends, as well as explore the methods for assisting children with their feelings and how we can help them with the dynamics of friendships. Instructor: Pam Bohm
• Monday, March 31 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St, Anoka
• Class fee: $9 per person
SIBSHOPS
Siblings, ages five through 12, of children with disabilities are invited to participate in Arc's Sibshops on the second Saturday of each month. This is a great way to have fun with others who understand the challenges of having a sibling with disabilities. Offered in collaboration with Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program.
• Second Saturday of the month: March 8, April 12 and May 10 at the Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center, 2740 Wingfield Ave., Anoka from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
• Free for Arc members; $10 per child for non-members.
• Call Arc at 952-920-0855 to register for this class.
Contact Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement at 763-506-1278 or at: Pam.Naegele@anoka.k12.mn.us with questions, to register for classes or to receive a hard copy brochure of classes sponsored by Parent Involvement.
33. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
Adult Learning has classes for everyone. Below is a sampling of classes offered next week from the winter Adult Class catalog. The catalog is loaded with great classes for everyone with more than 70 classes offered in March. There is sure to be something right just for you. To check out all of the available classes, visit: http://www.discovercommunityed.com.
ROSES! ROSES! ROSES!
Join us in the warmth of the greenhouse as you learn about roses - what and where to plant and how to care for them. Whether you are a novice or a pro, this class will get you in a rosy mood. Every student will plant a bareroot rose. Supply fee of $15 paid at class. Class fee: $15.
· Saturday, March 8 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Mickman Brothers Garden Center
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7521&catID
TASTE OF ITALY-ENTREE
Learn how to make house specialties of Buona Sera Restaurant such as Mediterranean Pork and Chicken Cacciatore. Your Italian host Raffaele, the chef/owner of Buona Sera, will demonstrate how you can create theses dishes at home with ease. Recipe booklet provided and samples of the completed dishes will be tasted. This is a demonstration class. Supply fee of $35 will be collected at class. Class fee: $15.
· Monday, March 10 or March 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Buona Sera Restaurant in Champlin
· Visit Community Education for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7337=
To check out all of the available classes or to register, visit: http://www.discovercommunityed.com or call 763-506-5766 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Press one when prompted.
34. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Make a New Year's resolution to help the world become a better place! Tell a friend or neighbor about free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation; English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship.
Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
If your New Year's resolution is to help others discover the rewards of volunteering and working with adults to learn English, improve their basic math or reading skills, or learn to read to their child, call 763-783-4920 to volunteer at Metro North Adult Basic Education.
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-7863 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org. |
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Backpack Online #19 - Superintendent's Column, Career and Technical Education Department honors students during February and annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
2. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Birds" Feb. 22, 23 and 24
3. Workshop on understanding and working with the needs of new Americans Feb. 27 and 28
Question of the Week
4. Why the school district does not observe Columbus Day in October or Veteran's Day in November when other federal holidays are observed with days off from school?
General News and Events:
5. Dr. David Walsh book discussion March 1
6. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
7. Anoka-Hennepin Destination ImagiNation tournament on March 8, judges needed!
8. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
9. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
10. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
11. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
12. Schools celebrate Black History Month
Elementary School News and Events:
13. Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts play "I Remember When" March 5 and 6
14. Crooked Lake Elementary School carnival March 8
15. Wilson Elementary School annual arts and academic fair March 13
16. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
17. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
High School News and Events:
18. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program, deadline is March 7
College and Career Planning Events:
19. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
20. High school career centers open to public (link)
21. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
22. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
23. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
Student Success:
24. Career and Technical Education Department honors students during month of February
Superintendent's Column
25. Bank owned-price reduced
Community Education News and Events:
26. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
27. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
28. Champlin Elementary School participates in "Making Spirits Bright"
29. Hoover Elementary School participates in "Pennies for Patients" drive
30. Jackson Middle School collects items in "Warming Tree" and "Holiday Food Basket" drives and sets new record in "Penny Wars" competition
31. Riverview Specialty School participates in community project
Upcoming Events:
1. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Birds" Feb. 22, 23 and 24
What would happen if a bunch of goofball birds tried to take over the world? What if it happened in the 1980s? Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts will explore this premise in the school's new adaptation of Aristophanes' classic Greek play, "The Birds."
The play was originally written in 819 B.C. and is one of the oldest surviving plays in the history of theater. This new adaptation maintains a number of the aspects of the original script with things like a Greek chorus and characters at times speaking in verse, but it also introduces a new hilarious concept that should provide laughs for everyone (especially anyone who remembers the '80s). Every character is a parody of an '80s icon with appearances by such characters as Vanilla Ice, Boy George, Punky Brewster and lots more! The show is also packed full of great '80s moments and tributes.
The play is directed and newly adapted for the stage by Jefferson Fietek, with costumes by Deb Murphy and lighting designed by Stirling Callander. Musical numbers are choreographed by Nora Bichler.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students. Seating is reserved. Public performances are at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka:
• Friday, Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance) and 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.
For more information, call the FMMS Center for the Arts box office at 763-506-FMMS (3667).
2. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
The Coon Rapids High School student council will host the a cappella group Tonic Sol-Fa in a fundraiser concert Friday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Coon Rapids High School auditorium. Tonic Sol-Fa has been named one of the top five "must see" groups in America by Campus Activities Today Magazine, has won numerous original song and album awards and was nominated multiple times for the prestigious "Entertainer of the Year" award by the National Association of Campus Activities.
Tickets are on sale now for $15. For advanced tickets, contact Bonnie Hermann at 763-506-7191 or at: Bonnie.Hermann@anoka.k12.mn.us. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event. For more information call Coon Rapids High School at 763-506-7100. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
3. Workshop on understanding and working with the needs of new Americans Feb. 27 and 28
The following event is co-sponsored by Metro North Adult Basic Education, a consortium partnership of which the Anoka-Hennepin School District is a part of. There are two sessions: one for professionals and one for interested community members.
The "New Americans: Understanding and working with their unique mental health needs" workshop will address the major sources of stress experienced by immigrant populations. Participants will develop a heightened awareness of the barriers to mental health treatment and other support services faced by immigrant populations.
The workshop is presented by Georgi Kroupin, M.A., L.P., is a lead psychologist and head of the Mental Health Program at the Center for International Health, a Health Partners Clinic. Kroupin has worked as a psychologist, family therapist and Director for the Moscow Center for Marriage and Family. Kroupin has worked for the Center for International Health since 1996.
The same workshop will be presented on Wednesday, Feb. 27 at the Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center (2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka) and Thursday, Feb. 28 at the First Lutheran Church (1555 40th Ave. N.E., Columbia Heights).
The cost of the workshop is $10 for professionals and free for interested community members. Participants are asked to register for one date and location only, as each session is limited to 75 participants. Rolls, coffee, and juice will be available. Registration is available to download online at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter. Click on the "Backpack Online" folder.
The event is sponsored by Metro North Adult Basic Education, Anoka County Children and Family Council, Immigrant and Refugee Asset Committee and the Anoka County Human Services Diversity Committee. For more information, contact Jill Davis at 763-323-6044.
4. Question of the Week
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
Question: I would like to know why the school district does not observe Columbus Day in October or Veteran's Day in November when other federal holidays are observed with days off from school.
Response: The district does not observe all federal holidays because of other requirements and traditions, such as the need for teachers to have non-student contact days at the end of quarters so they can prepare grades, days for parent-teacher conferences, staff development, and winter and spring breaks. To observe more federal holidays than we do now would result in extending the school year further into the summer. Already school extends well into the second week of June. Some of our schools do special activities on these days to observe them. For example, veterans have been invited into our schools to be honored at student assemblies or to speak with students.
General News and Events:
5. Dr. David Walsh book discussion March 1
The following event is endorsed by the Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program. Interested parents/guardians are encouraged to attend.
Anoka-Hennepin parents/guardians are invited to attend a discussion of the ideas presented in Dr. David Walsh's book, "No: Why Kids of All Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It" on Saturday, March 1 at the Northtown Library, 711 County Road 10 N.E., Blaine, at 10:30 a.m.
Walsh is an award-winning author and president and founder of the National Institute on Media and the Family. He provides the antidote to discipline deficit disorder in his latest book "No: Why Kids of All Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It." Walsh also provides down-to-earth advice and strategies that can be used by parents, caregivers and all adults with children in their lives to nurture healthy, self-reliant children.
Participants for the event are encouraged to register at: www.melsa.org/go/parenting. The first 20 registrants will receive a copy of "No: Why Kids of all Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It," courtesy of Friends of the Anoka County Library. The Metropolitan Library Service Agency (including Anoka County Library and others) is sponsoring the event. For more information about Walsh's presentation, the book discussion program, Friends of the Library or other library services, visit: www.anoka.lib.mn.us.
6. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
Happiness and sadness, surprise and anger are familiar emotions to many, yet few can capture them in words. The 2008 Writing Contest for Anoka-Hennepin School District students encourages students in first through fifth grades to do just that.
The contest information flier asks students to think of a time when something happened in their lives that created a strong feeling and write about it, describing smells, sounds, actions and people around them to help the reader see the experience for themselves.
Judges are looking for an imaginative title, organized beginning, middle and ending, interesting details or dialogue, correct spelling and punctuation and originality.
Stories are limited to 500 words and will be judged in four categories: first and second grade, third grade, fourth grade and fifth grade. Cash prizes will be awarded in each category, including first through third places and up to three honorable mentions.
The contest is open to students who live in or attend school in Anoka-Hennepin. Entries are due by March 11 (postmarked by March 7) and may be sent to Creative Writing Contest, c/o McKinley Elementary School, 1740 Constance Blvd., Ham Lake, MN 55304-6797.
The contest is co-sponsored by the Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the Anoka-Hennepin Education Foundation.
7. Anoka-Hennepin Destination ImagiNation tournament March 8, judges needed!
The public is invited to attend the district's annual Destination ImagiNation event on Saturday, March 8 at Blaine High School from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Team challenges begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at approximately 3 p.m.
Destination ImagiNation is a creative problem solving competition for K-12 students. The atmosphere at the competition is one of energy, enthusiasm, excitement and amazement at the creativity of students as they present solutions to "team challenges" they have been developing for months. Students also participate in an "instant challenge" in which they are given a problem to solve on the spot in a few minutes.
Judges are needed for the event. You don't need to be an expert to be a judge! Past judges have come back year after year to experience the excitement of the day. One experienced judge said, "What these kids can do will just blow your socks off!" All judges will receive a free T-shirt, snacks and lunch. Judges are to check in at 8 a.m. at the front desk in the school's main lobby.
To register as a judge, contact Deb Perriello at 763-506-1113 or at: Deb.Perriello@anoka.k12.mn.us. Destination ImagiNation is free and open the public. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E., Blaine.
8. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
Parents, students, colleagues and others are invited to nominate an exemplary teacher-one who is improving student achievement, using innovative strategies, and making a difference in the lives of students-for an American Stars of Teaching award. The award, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors superior teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of their students.
Nominations are accepted through March 31. Winners will be announced this fall. For more information or to nominate someone, visit: http://www.t2tweb.us/AmStar/About.asp.
9. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement. There are two sessions: one for professionals who work with children and one for parents.
In a world where children are often given the message that the ends justify the means; where harmful even violent behavior goes unnoticed; where children's ethical education can come from a T-shirt slogan, an Internet site or the evening news, the "just because it's not wrong doesn't make it right" workshop is an essential tool for professionals who work with children and parents.
In this workshop with the internationally renowned author Barbara Coloroso, participants will find out how they can help guide children's ethical lives using everyday situations at home, at school, in social settings and in the world at large.
Participants will learn:
• The overall concept of ethics and the reasons why it is important to teach children and teens to think and act ethically.
• Deterrents that can impair the ability for adults and children to act ethically, including hating, hoarding and harming.
• Strategies for helping children and teens understand their choices and their ability to make ethical decisions.
The event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement, Anoka County Child Abuse Prevention Council and Connexus Energy.
The workshop for professionals who work with children is Tuesday, April 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Blvd. N.W., Ramsey. The cost of this event is $25 with certificates of attendance available. Download the registration form in the district's online document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter. Click on the "Backpack Online" folder.
The workshop for parents is Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka. This event is free. Call 763-433-4145 to register.
For more information, contact Donna McDonald, Violence Prevention coordinator - Anoka County Community Health Department, at 763-422- 7047 or at: donna.mcdonald@co.anoka.mn.us.
10. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin math and science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 7 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19604
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Scholarships may be available. Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
11. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools are observing I Love to Read Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to read. In many schools, students are keeping track of minutes spent reading or the number of books read, working toward individual or school goals. Some schools will have book give-aways, book exchanges, guest readers, and artists in residence.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month:
CROOKED LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Crooked Lake Elementary School kicked off I Love to Read Month by dropping everything to read for 10 minutes each day during the week of Feb. 4 through 8. Students will also participate in the school's read-a-thon throughout the month.
On Feb. 20, the school hosted a school-wide book swap where students brought a book to swap. The school will also have a book fair on Feb. 19, 21 and 25 and an all-school lyceum and after school Dr. Seuss class on Feb. 27. Feb. 29 is "Read Across Crooked Lake Day" in which community members will read to classrooms.
EISENHOWER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Eisenhower Elementary school students are madly reading this month to add minutes to their reading logs, said Marcia Peterson, media specialist. Each reading log a student turns in adds to both their class total number of minutes read for the month and the school total. Classes are competing against each other to see who can read the most minutes and earn a party with treats and games in the media center sometime in March.
Students are also working towards reaching the school's goal of more than 400,000 minutes read during the month. If students reach the goal, Peterson will dye her hair neon pink for an entire week in March.
Eisenhower's all school read aloud book this year is "Rules" by Cynthia Lord. Every week, trivia questions about the book are read to the students and each class is encouraged to bring their answers to the media center.
JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Jefferson Elementary School kicked off I Love to Read Month with a visit from Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. Bachmann read the book, "House Mouse, Senate Mouse" to the fourth grade classrooms of teachers Stacy Carlson and Melissa Beyer.
In "House Mouse, Senate Mouse" the Squeaker of the House and the Senate Mouse-jority Leader have a big job to do: Miss Tuftmouse's second grade class has written Congress with an idea for a law to declare a National Cheese! But in a big country, it's not always easy to get everyone to agree on an important issue.
Written by a Washington, D.C area husband and wife author/artist team Peter W. Barnes and Cheryl Shaw Barnes, "House Mouse, Senate Mouse" teaches children about our nation's Capitol building and takes them through the legislative process.
JOHNSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Johnsville Elementary School students are reading the book, ""The World According to Humphrey," by Betty G. Birney.
"The World According to Humphrey" is a story about Humphrey, the class hamster and the adventures he has. Some special features of the book are tips on how to care for hamsters, word puzzles, trivia test, a maze and a set of questions and answers about the book. Principal Pat Murray will be reading a chapter of the book to each classroom.
A picture of a staff member (whose face is hidden) with their favorite book will be shown each day during the month on the school's monitors. Students are encouraged to try and guess whom the staff member is reading the book.
Students and staff are also demonstrating school spirit during the month by wearing Johnsville logo wear every Friday.
MORRIS BYE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Morris Bye Elementary School hosted its annual "I Love to Read Night" on Feb. 12, which was sponsored by the Morris Bye Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), to promote and celebrate reading. Students were able participate in a book drawing, book walk, "Spin and Win" activity, color or paint a picture, make a bookmark, listen to stories read by guest readers and more.
OAK VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL
During the month of February, the theme at Oak View Middle School is "Let's Read for the Fun of It!" The school has a variety of activities planned to help celebrate I Love to Read Month:
• Each Wednesday in February an exciting free activity will take place in school's media center from 3:10 to 5 p.m. called "Wednesday Warm-ups at the Library!"
• On Feb. 6, the school hosted "Book to Movie Night: Popcorn & Spellbound" where students viewed the movie about the journey of middle school students to the spelling bee.
• On Feb. 13, students discussed their favorite book titles in the "Read Any Good Books Lately?" activity.
• On Feb. 20, students participated in the "Games, Games, Games" activity by playing games and eating healthy snacks in the media center.
• On Feb. 27, students will participate in the "Learn Superhero Moves" event, in which a karate expert will demonstrate what students have been reading about.
The school has also planned "Reading Minute Madness" in which grade level teams will vie for the top, "Mystery Reader" where students match teachers' pictures to their favorite book and "Read Across Oak View Day" on March 3 (the entire school will "Drop Everything and Read" for 30 minutes).
12. Schools celebrate Black History Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools are observing Black History Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to learn more about important African-Americans figures in history.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month:
COON RAPIDS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Coon Rapids Middle School students are participating in the Minnesota Timberwolves third annual Black History Month creative contest in which students write essays, poems or create an artwork with the theme "Who Inspires You?"
The Coon Rapids Middle School multicultural group is also celebrating the achievements and history of African-Americans in the group's monthly newsletter, which is available to view online at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/crmstauer. Click on the "Multicultural Group" link. The newsletter is sent to all 20/20 (advisory) teachers at the school to share with students.
Elementary School News and Events:
13. Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts play "I Remember When" March 5 and 6
The public is invited to attend the upcoming productions of the play "I Remember When" by Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts students on March 5 and 6 at 7 p.m. and a special matinee performance on March 6 at 10:30 a.m. All performances will be held at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka.
The play is written and directed by Lincoln staff and will feature original music and dancing. All performances are free and open to the public. Matinee attendees are required to check in the office.
14. Crooked Lake Elementary School carnival March 8
The public is invited to attend Crooked Lake Elementary School's annual carnival on Saturday, March 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Crooked Lake Parent Teacher Organization (CLPTO) and will feature a silent auction, bingo (the best-kept secret at Crooked Lake), cake walk, pizza walk, a large variety of carnival games and two inflatable events.
Game prices start at just 25 cents. Food is available for purchase, including Mansetti's pizza. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call Crooked Lake Elementary at 763-506-2100. The school is located at 2939 Bunker Lake Blvd. in Andover.
15. Wilson Elementary School annual arts and academic fair March 13
The public is invited to attend Wilson Elementary School's annual arts and academic fair on Thursday, March 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature student artwork, displays, a talent show and more!
Wilson Elementary School is located at 1025 Sunny Lane in Anoka.
16. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
17. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
High School News and Events:
18. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program, deadline to apply is March 7
The Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program (SAMMY) recognizes outstanding grade 12 scholar athletes throughout the country and provides an opportunity for students to win a $7,500 college scholarship.
Through March 7, teachers, coaches, principals, guidance counselors, athletic directors, parents and relatives can nominate a student athlete for the SAMMY 2008 Award. High school seniors can also nominate themselves.
Judging of the nominees will be based on five criteria: academic performance, athletic excellence, leadership, community service and milk experience.
SAMMY 2008 applications will only be accepted online at: http://www.bodybymilk.com until March 7. America's Milk Processors and USA sponsor SAMMY TODAY. For official rules, visit
http://www.bodybymilk.com
.
College and Career Planning Events:
19. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
20. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
21. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers.
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY MINNESOTA ASSOCIATION OF FINANCIAL AID ADMINISTRATORS
COLLEGE GOAL SUNDAY
College Goal Sunday is a national program that provides free information and assistance to families who are filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the federally required form for students seeking financial aid, such as grants and loans. Completing the FAFSA is the first and most important step in qualifying for aid.
The Minnesota Association of Financial Aid Administrators has one remaining local event planned to help students and parents complete the FAFSA:
1) FAFSA completion session at North Hennepin Community College room CLA 120 on Saturday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. Participants will receive assistance in completing the FAFSA.
Students should attend with a parent or guardian if possible. Participants will need to bring the following items: four-digit FAFSA pin number (students can apply for this ahead of time at: www.fafsa.ed.gov), social security number, driver's license number, 2007 tax returns for students and parents, information about savings, investments and assets for students and parents, records of untaxed income and alien registration number if not a U.S. citizen.
For more information, visit: www.mncollegegoalsunday.org. Anoka-Ramsey Community College is located at 11200 Mississippi Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids. North Hennepin Community College is located at 7411 85th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
22. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students and their parents.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: March 27 at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
• Andover High School College Questions Panel: Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. in the Andover High School media center. Six different college representatives from state, private, out-of-state, community and technical colleges will be in attendance. Each college will give a presentation on their school with a question and answer session.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• College Week Live: March 25 and 26 online at http:www.collegeweeklive.com from noon to 11 p.m. (Eastern). More than 150 colleges will be represented online, with representatives and student panelists available for live discussions and questions.
• Normandale Community College: Wednesday, March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. More than 100 public and private, two-year, four-year, technical and military organizations will be present. Go to: http://www.mn-acac.org for more specific information.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
23. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days, college and career preparation opportunities and prepare college options information. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace or gain valuable college prep information. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours, college and career prep workshops available at your student's high school.
Here is an upcoming date for information on the Post Secondary Education Option (PSEO) and career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
POST SECONDARY EDUCATION OPTION (PSEO) SEMINAR
Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. in the Andover High School media center
A representative from Anoka-Ramsey Community College will explain the PSEO option and process. This event is held at Andover High School and is open to all Anoka-Hennepin students and their parents.
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
24. Career and Technical Education Department honors students during month of February
The Anoka-Hennepin Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department is celebrating CTE Month. Career and technical education prepares both youth and adults for a wide range of careers, from registered nurse to computer technician. These careers may require varying levels of education--from high school to postsecondary certificates to two-year and four-year college degrees, said Scott Arcand, teaching and learning specialist for the district. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 18 of the 20 fastest growing occupations within the next decade will require career and technical education.
The Anoka-Hennepin CTE Department is honoring the Anoka-Hennepin students who currently serve in state-level positions for their respective organizations:
Business Professionals of America (BPA)
Tiffany Wicken, Blaine High School, state executive secretary
Breauna Welch, Anoka High School, state treasury
Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA)
Sara Dannenberg, Andover High School, vice president of communications
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA-HERO)
Katie Brumbaugh, Champlin Park High School, first vice president
Corissa Duffy, Coon Rapids High School, vice president of public relations
Amber Johnson, Coon Rapids High School, vice president of STAR and competitive events
Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA)
Jacklynn Van Asch, Blaine High School, president
Derrick Throndsen, Blaine High School, president-elect
Chelsea Thomas, Andover High School, secretary
Majida Redzic, Blaine High School, North Region vice-president
Josh Mitchell, Blaine High School, Central Region vice-president
Alicia Hicks, Andover High School, South Region vice-president
Yvonne Cherviyot, Andover High School, historian/public relations
SkillsUSA
Joshuwa Voight, Anoka High School, secretary
Superintendent's Column:
25. Bank owned-price reduced
By Dr. Roger Giroux, superintendent
I can't help but see the increasing number of foreclosures published in our daily papers. Each night I hear reports of national and state economic stress on the evening news. Inflation, recession, up-tics, down-tics, bulls and bears; we have an abundance of numbers and metaphors to describe the quality of our country's economic health. Our schools and our students are affected by economic news just like every other part of society.
The numbers and images of the business world have little meaning for the school age boy or girl, young man or young woman. Relocation because the family home is lost; a postponed chance to attend college; a dropped sport or activity for the want of a fee; a need for clothing and food; the loss of self respect; a withdrawal from social contact; academic distraction and loss of learning; these are the human face of a downside economy. Whenever you drive by a sign that says: "price reduced/banker owned," think of the people, particularly the young people, behind that sign.
On a far less personal basis the general fabric of Minnesota's school systems is affected by the health of the economy as well. As a state, we are at a critical point of demarcation for our public schools. Our children will participate in a world wide education-driven economy and their success and the security of our country is dependent on their academic achievement in a rigorous educational experience. We are also at a point of demarcation for the funding of our children's education. The state is forecasting deficits and a turnaround isn't in sight. Our schools have fallen back on voter-approved property taxes to fund their programs, but this has not been universally successful and creates a wide divergence in educational opportunity depending on the location of the family home and the amount of property wealth in each district. Schools are also in competition with the other units of government who find their tax base at a plateau while the need for city and county services increases.
A quick overview of school district financial health across the state shows that students in districts with failed levies are immediately confronting a reduction in programs and services just as those educational opportunities are most needed. Districts with voter approved operating levies in place are looking for state funding to meet their inflationary needs and when that funding isn't forthcoming their children also face the loss of schools, courses and classes, just when they are most needed. Reserves won't last much beyond a year and at that point school district financial stress will be wide spread.
I assume someone is watching the state store. I assume someone is anticipating a government funding crisis and taking steps to address the fallout from that crisis as it hits our children. Random reaction by each individual district accompanied by usual generalities: "tighten your belts," "get along with less," "live within your means," will sound hollow as children in other states and, more significantly, children in other countries leave our children behind." There is a great deal of justified criticism of public schools that also needs to be answered. Universal educational opportunity has to be accompanied by universal educational success. The major message is that Minnesota's educational effort, as a state, has to be focused and committed. Our educational vision for our children has to be a state vision. This vision must be defined by strategies, tactics and actions that result in real results. The Minnesota vision for our children's education has to be funded. Our delivery of courses, programs and services directed at that vision must weather economic bad times as well as political change and be sustained by a true high priority for children. I fear that, as a state, we do not have our vision developed or our priorities set. Our commitment is compromised by economic events and political change and this time the schools won't have a backup.
Community Education News and Events:
26. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1, 2008). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
27. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Make a New Year's resolution to help the world become a better place! Tell a friend or neighbor about free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation; English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship.
Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
If your New Year's resolution is to help others discover the rewards of volunteering and working with adults to learn English, improve their basic math or reading skills, or learn to read to their child, call 763-783-4920 to volunteer at Metro North Adult Basic Education.
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-7863 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out
Anoka-Hennepin schools are involved in helping those in need a variety of ways this past holiday season. Many schools collected items for food shelves and organized volunteer activities after school. Encouraging and helping students to give to those in need promotes compassion, a core value of Anoka-Hennepin's Character Education program. Backpack Online will include examples from our schools each week throughout the next several issues.
Read more examples from schools in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19121.
Listen to AHPN podcast episodes on examples of schools reaching out at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast. Click on the "AHPN Episodes 2007-08" folder and then click on episodes nine and 10. Additional schools will be featured in future podcast episodes.
28. Champlin Elementary School participates in "Making Spirits Bright"
Since 1996, Champlin Elementary School students and staff have helped families in need during the holiday season through participation in its annual compassion project, "Making Spirits Bright." The project evolved from a need to assist a family who had been evicted from their home and took off from there, said Mary Nettleton, Champlin Elementary social worker and project coordinator.
Since its inception, the efforts of the "Making Sprits Bright" project have helped between 15 to 27 families in need every year.
This year the school collected $2,100 and was able to support 23 families. Each family receives gifts, food and other items they may need. Students do a variety of things to collect the money and other items, including participation in food and monetary drives. Local businesses and organizations in Champlin also contribute to the cause.
In the first four years of the project, the average total amount raised was approximately $800 in cash and gifts, said Nettleton. The past six years, the average total amount increased to approximately $1,500 in cash and gifts.
"It's really cool and wonderful," said Nettleton of the efforts. "It's probably the best thing I've ever been involved in."
29. Hoover Elementary School participates in "Pennies for Patients" drive
Hoover Elementary School collected $900 in the school's "Pennies for Patients" drive in December. The funds were donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, which is dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. The society's mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, the society has invested more than $550.8 million for research specifically targeting blood cancers.
30. Jackson Middle School collects items in "Warming Tree" and "Holiday Food Basket" drives and sets new record in "Penny Wars" competition
Sixth grade social studies classes at Jackson Middle School competed against each other in the school's "Penny Wars" competition in December. Team 6E set a new record for the most funds collected, with $1,201.03 raised in just five days. The money was used to purchase gifts for senior citizens in the "Gifts for Seniors" program. Representatives from each sixth grade class purchased the gifts at Target.
Between Dec. 3 and 19, Jackson students and staff collected 348 items in the school's annual "Warming Tree" campaign to provide warm clothing for those in need. The school has collected more than 1,000 items since 2002.
Jackson students, staff and families also contributed items toward the school's "Holiday Food Baskets" drive. A total of 18 baskets were filled with food and turkeys (donated by Cub Foods), and other items, like homemade afghans (courtesy of Jyl Acheson, Jackson Special Education para), and delivered to local families in need.
31. Riverview Specialty School participates in community project
Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science fifth graders started off the new year with a special community project to collect donations for the Alexandra House shelter. Students collected 387 personal care items, like shampoo, soap and laundry detergent, during the drive's two-week run in January.
Alexandra House is a non-profit, community based organization in Anoka County that provides 24-hour emergency shelter, support services and advocacy to battered women and families. The shelter works to end domestic violence.
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Backpack Online #18 - District reaches contract settlement with teachers union, district takes precautions with beef and more than 1,000 students participate in STEM Fair. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Champlin Park High School Marching Rebels drumline hosts annual show Feb. 16
Question of the Week
2. Is there a dress code for employees of the Anoka-Hennepin School District?
School Board News:
3. District reaches contract settlement with teachers union
General News and Events:
4. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
5. Dr. David Walsh book discussion March 1
6. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
7. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
8. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
9. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
10. Anoka-Hennepin takes precautions with beef
11. More than 1,000 students participate in STEM Fair
12. Anoka-Hennepin middle and high school students celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
13. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
14. Schools celebrate Black History Month
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Jefferson Elementary School first grade teacher wins Target field trips grant
16. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
17. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Middle School News and Events:
18. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Birds" Feb. 22, 23 and 24
19. Northdale Middle School celebrates multicultural month in January
High School News and Events:
20. Coon Rapids High School FCCLA members celebrate National FCCLA-HERO Week, Feb. 10 through 16
21. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program, deadline is March 7
College and Career Planning Events:
22. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
23. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students (updated)
25. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students (updated)
Student Success:
26. 2008 Bus Safety Poster Contest Winners
27. Students place in district spelling bee
Community Education News and Events:
28. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Reaching Out:
29. Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science kindergarten class donates pajamas
30. Rum River Elementary School participates in food drive
31. Sand Creek Elementary School collects items for local food shelves
32. STEP Emergency Medical Career students collect "Toys for Tots"
Upcoming Events:
1. Champlin Park High School Marching Rebels drumline hosts annual show Feb. 16
The public is invited to attend Champlin Park High School Marching Rebels drumline's annual home show at the Champlin Park Field House on Saturday, Feb. 16 at 6:30 p.m. Champlin Park will perform their current show, entitled, "Leave Your Mark," under the direction of Vlad Boz and Scott Hirsch.
The event will also feature performances from Blaine, Becker, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Kenosha, Irondale, River Valley, Sauk Rapids-Rice and South St. Paul high schools.
The cost of the event is $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Champlin Park High School is located at 6025 109th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
2. Question of the Week
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
Question: Is there a dress code for employees of the Anoka-Hennepin School District, (particularly those employees that interact with students) as they are setting examples and considered to be role models for the children?
Response: The district does not have an official dress code for staff. School staff are encouraged to dress professionally to set an example for students, who have to adhere to specific dress codes. At some schools, the published dress code pertains to students and staff. Staff who work in specific areas, such as physical education, may wear attire that is appropriate for physical activity. Staff in some departments, like building and grounds and child nutrition, wear uniforms that adhere to specific dress code requirements.
Other schools have "casual Fridays" in which casual professional wear or school-related clothing is permitted.
If a complaint is made about a staff member's dress, or a principal/supervisor perceives that a staff member's dress isn't professional, concerns are addressed with the individual staff member.
A video on appropriate attire, created by the Communications and Public Relations Department, is shown to new teachers at the district's annual new teacher's workshop to help promote professional dress. Some principals/supervisors also show the video to their staff at the beginning of the school year as a reminder.
When in doubt about what is appropriate, staff should look to their principal or supervisor.
School Board News:
3. District reaches contract settlement with teachers union
The Anoka-Hennepin School Board and teachers approved a two-year contract one day ahead of the Jan. 15 state deadline.
Ninety-one percent of district's 2,900 union members approved the contract on Jan. 10 and the board added its approval at the Jan. 14 board meeting. Terms of the contract include 8.96 percent improvement over the two years of the contract, which includes a 2.59 percent increase in the first year and 2.05 in the second.
The average increase from the expired contract is about $3,500 per year per teacher, according to Anoka-Hennepin legal counsel Paul Cady. Insurance coverage will remain the same during the first year of the contract.
Teachers have been working under the terms of the expired contract since June 30, 2007. If the contract had not been approved by Jan. 15, the district would have faced a $1 million reduction in state aid, a penalty of $25 per pupil. Statewide, 16 districts did not make the deadline.
In addition to salary increases, the contract also calls for three short-term task forces to discuss elementary, secondary and special education issues between February and the end of the school year. Then the labor management committee will continue the discussion and address issues throughout the year. Union and district officials hope this will reduce contract negotiation time.
General News and Events:
4. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
The Coon Rapids High School student council will host the a cappella group Tonic Sol-Fa in a fundraiser concert Friday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Coon Rapids High School auditorium. Tonic Sol-Fa has been named one of the top five "must see" groups in America by Campus Activities Today Magazine, has won numerous original song and album awards and was nominated multiple times for the prestigious "Entertainer of the Year" award by the National Association of Campus Activities.
Tickets are on sale now for $15. For advanced tickets, contact Bonnie Hermann at 763-506-7191 or at: Bonnie.Hermann@anoka.k12.mn.us. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event. For more information call Coon Rapids High School at 763-506-7100. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
5. Dr. David Walsh book discussion March 1
The following event is endorsed by the Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program. Interested parents/guardians are encouraged to attend.
Anoka-Hennepin parents/guardians are invitied to attend a discussion of the ideas presented in Dr. David Walsh's book, "No: Why Kids of All Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It" on Saturday, March 1 at the Northtown Library, 711 County Road 10 N.E., Blaine, at 10:30 a.m.
Walsh is an award-winning author and president and founder of the National Institute on Media and the Family. He provides the antidote to discipline deficit disorder in his latest book "No: Why Kids of All Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It." Walsh also provides down-to-earth advice and strategies that can be used by parents, caregivers and all adults with children in their lives to nurture healthy, self-reliant children.
Participants for the event are encouraged to register at: http://www.melsa.org/go/parenting. The first 20 registrants will receive a copy of "No: Why Kids of all Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It," courtesy of Friends of the Anoka County Library. The Metropolitan Library Service Agency (including Anoka County Library and others) is sponsoring the event. For more information about Walsh's presentation, the book discussion program, Friends of the Library or other library services, visit: http://www.anoka.lib.mn.us.
6. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
Happiness and sadness, surprise and anger are familiar emotions to many, yet few can capture them in words. The 2008 Writing Contest for Anoka-Hennepin School District students encourages students in first through fifth grades to do just that.
The contest information flier asks students to think of a time when something happened in their lives that created a strong feeling and write about it, describing smells, sounds, actions and people around them to help the reader see the experience for themselves.
Judges are looking for an imaginative title, organized beginning, middle and ending, interesting details or dialogue, correct spelling and punctuation and originality.
Stories are limited to 500 words and will be judged in four categories: first and second grade, third grade, fourth grade and fifth grade. Cash prizes will be awarded in each category, including first through third places and up to three honorable mentions.
The contest is open to students who live in or attend school in Anoka-Hennepin. Entries are due by March 11 (postmarked by March 7) and may be sent to Creative Writing Contest, c/o McKinley Elementary School, 1740 Constance Blvd., Ham Lake, MN 55304-6797.
The contest is co-sponsored by the Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the Anoka-Hennepin Education Foundation.
7. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
Parents, students, colleagues and others are invited to nominate an exemplary teacher-one who is improving student achievement, using innovative strategies, and making a difference in the lives of students-for an American Stars of Teaching award. The award, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors superior teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of their students.
Nominations are accepted through March 31. Winners will be announced this fall. For more information or to nominate someone, visit: http://www.t2tweb.us/AmStar/About.asp.
8. Workshop on teaching kids to think and act ethically April 29
The following event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement. There are two sessions: one for professionals who work with children and one for parents.
In a world where children are often given the message that the ends justify the means; where harmful, even violent, behavior goes unnoticed; where children's ethical education can come from a T-shirt slogan, an Internet site or the evening news, the "Just because it's not wrong doesn't make it right" workshop is an essential tool for professionals who work with children and parents.
In this workshop with the internationally renowned author, Barbara Coloroso, participants will find out how they can help guide children's ethical lives using everyday situations at home, at school, in social settings and in the world at large.
Participants will learn:
• The overall concept of ethics and the reasons why it is important to teach children and teens to think and act ethically.
• Deterrents that can impair the ability for adults and children to act ethically, including hating, hoarding and harming.
• Strategies for helping children and teens understand their choices and their ability to make ethical decisions.
The event is co-sponsored by Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement, Anoka County Child Abuse Prevention Council and Connexus Energy.
The workshop for professionals who work with children is Tuesday, April 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Blvd. N.W., Ramsey. The cost of this event is $25 with certificates of attendance available. Complete registration information will be available in March.
The workshop for parents is Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S., Anoka. This event is free. Call 763-433-4145 to register.
For more information, contact Donna McDonald, Violence Prevention Coordinator - Anoka County Community Health Department, at 763-422-7047 or at: donna.mcdonald@co.anoka.mn.us.
9. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 7 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19604
A-H Online Document Center:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Scholarships may be available. Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: http://www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
10. Anoka-Hennepin takes precautions with beef
A hot topic in the news last week was the beef that was put on hold by the United States Department of Agriculture.
The Anoka-Hennepin School District does receive beef products from Advance Beef, one of the companies involved in the hold. Those products include beef crumble (processed ground beef), hamburgers, taco ground beef, meatloaf and rib-e-ques.
As soon as the district received notification of the hold from the Minnesota Department of Education, all schools stopped serving beef.
On Monday, Feb. 4, the district received a list of lot numbers for the beef put on hold. The district warehouse and each site checked beef supplies for those numbers. After all sites had reported back to the Child Nutrition department, the total count was 26 full cases and seven partial cases of beef crumbles and ribs, most at secondary schools.
After the affected products were removed, schools again began serving beef products but they were from other sources.
"We want to assure parents that the safety of our students is our first priority," said Allison Bradford, director of the Child Nutrition Deprtment. "To our knowledge, no medical problems were reported as a result of the beef. The USDA did not put a hold on the beef because it was believed to be unsafe for consumption, but rather because the animals were mistreated."
11. More than 1,000 students participate in STEM Fair
The fieldhouse of Blaine High School was filled with an air of excitement on Saturday, Jan. 12 as more than 1,000 students gathered for the Anoka-Hennepin School District's annual Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair, which showcases student excellence in science and math learning.
Students presented on a wide variety of topics, including, "What Metals Work Best for Implants," "How Hands-On Activities Affect Memory in Elders," "Solar Power on the Go" and even on popular video games, such as, "How Guitar Hero Affects Reflexes."
A total of 982 projects were entered in this year's fair. Of the secondary projects, 87 were awarded medals by STEM Fair judges and will advance to the Central Minnesota Regional Fair on Feb. 23 in St. Cloud. Special awards were also presented to students in the following categories: most enthusiastic, fantastic photography, best board, ingenious idea and dedicated scientist.
View STEM Fair photos, medalists and special award winners in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19771
12. Anoka-Hennepin middle and high school students celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
On Jan. 21, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, students from each middle and high school in Anoka-Hennepin along with their respective Student Learning Advocate participated in a youth rally and march in St. Paul.
Students enjoyed an inspiring program at Central High School prior to the three-block march to Concordia College for a second program.
Visit the Student Services Department Web site at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/studentservices for student quotes on the experience, photos and a link to KSTP Channel 5's coverage of the event.
13. Schools celebrate I Love to Read Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools are observing I Love to Read Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to read. In many schools, students are keeping track of minutes spent reading or the number of books read, working toward individual or school goals. Some schools will have book give-aways, book exchanges, guest readers, and artists in residence.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month:
ANDOVER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Andover Elementary School is preparing for an exciting month of activities to promote and celebrate reading. Students will again participate in an all-school read-aloud with the book "Gooney Bird Greene" by Lois Lowry.
Other Andover activities include:
• Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) each day for 10 minutes.
• Each classroom will keep track of minutes read.
• Mystery Book activities in which students are read sections for a fiction and picture book. Classrooms try to guess the title. Correct guesses earn a classroom an additional 100 minutes in reading time totals.
• "Gooney Question Day" in which classrooms discuss questions related to "Gooney Bird Greene."
• Students who spot the "Gooney Bird" character in the school will receive a book fair certificate.
The school will culminate their celebration with "Goofy-Gaudy-Garish-Gooney Readathon" at the end of the month. Students are encouraged to wear "gaudy" clothes, do something "goofy" with their hair, dress up like Gooney Bird, etc. during the school's readathon.
MADISON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Madison Elementary School has several activities planned to celebrate I Love to Read Month. To kick off the month, the school had a Scholastic Book Fair.
The school's challenge for the month is to read more than 1,200 books. If students reach the goal, principal Cindy Hitt will transform into Ms. Frizzle, a character from the Magic School Bus series, with orange, sparkly hair and glasses and ride a specially constructed "Madison Magic School Bus" through the school's hallways. In 2007, Hitt had her hair dyed "Madison Mustang Blue" when students reached their goal of reading 1,000 books during the month.
On designated days during I Love To Read Month, students will try to be the first to spy "Ms. Frizzle." The winner will receive a free book from the school's media center.
Other Madison activities include:
• "I Love To Read" student posters in the hallways.
• Guest readers, including Madison teachers.
• "Read My Shirt Day" on Feb. 6, where students wear shirts that have a lot of words. There is a prize for most letters.
• "Camp Out with a Good Book Day" on Feb. 13 in which students will participate in flashlight reading during class independent reading time.
• "Relax and Read Day" on Feb. 21 where students wear comfy, fleece type pajama bottoms and slippers while reading.
• Literary trivia will featured on the Madison TV scroll each Friday (the first class to answer correctly in kindergarten through grade two and grades three through five will receive new books for their classrooms).
• Third graders will begin their new check-out of three books in February to tie into I Love To Read Month.
Madison will end the month with the "Line the Walls and Read" activity and participation in "Read Across America Day" on Monday, Mar. 3.
MCKINLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
During February's "I Love to Read" month all McKinley Elementary School students will participate in four different all-school reading events. Each week a different book will be read aloud and students will have the opportunity to listen to and discuss the following books with their classmates:
"Big Chickens" by Leslie Helakoski
"Dear Children of the World" by Schim Schimmel
"What a Day it was at School" by Jack Prelutsky
"Agate" by Joy Morgan Dey and Nikki Johnson
Each Monday trivia questions about the book of the week will be read on the school's morning show, with questions for kindergarten through grade two and grades three through five. Trivia winners receive a free book.
OXBOW CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
"Oxbow Creek Reads Together" is the theme for Oxbow Creek Elementary School during "I Love to Read" month. The school's literacy committee has planned fun activities for students throughout the month with the goal to promote reading and the benefits that come with it.
The school kicked off the celebration with a program broadcast to the entire school on what students and staff will be doing throughout the month. Teachers will read a chapter a day from the book "According to Humphrey" to students during school-wide read aloud time. Principal Rolf Carlsen will read to all 39 classes at Oxbow Creek.
The school also had a school-wide read-in on Feb. 8. Grade levels decided on themes, like students wearing pajamas or bringing a blanket or sleeping bag during reading time.
Other Oxbow Creek activities include: mystery readers on the school's TV broadcast program, reading buddies across grade levels (in which students are paired up to read to each other, share writing workshop pieces or talk about their favorite kinds of books) and "dress like a book character" for staff on Feb. 22.
RAMSEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
As a part of I Love to Read Month, the Ramsey Elementary School Parent Teacher Association (PTA) will host "Family Reading Night" on Friday, Feb. 15. Principal Jeff Clusiau will read stories. Students will join storybook characters like Curious George, Beauty and the Beast and Mowgli from "The Jungle Book" in dancing and interpretive movements.
Students will also participate in Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) each Friday by dropping everything and reading for 15 minutes. Principal Clusiau and Assistant Principal Todd Protivinksy will be reading books to classrooms.
Both events coincide with the Ramsey Reads program. Students are encouraged to read and meet their reading goal for each quarter. Students who achieve their goal receive a certificate of achievement.
14. Schools celebrate Black History Month
Anoka-Hennepin schools are observing Black History Month in February with special activities designed to encourage students to learn more about important African-Americans figures in history.
Backpack Online will feature the activities of a few schools each week throughout the month:
SANDBURG MIDDLE SCHOOL
The Diversity Committee at Sandburg Middle School has been working hard to support Black History Month and has planned several activities. Students have written essays about influential African-Americans, which have also been entered in the Minnesota Timberwolves third annual Black History Month creative contest, "Who Inspires You?"
Students have also created posters that are displayed in the school's hallways. Later this month, students will learn about African-American leaders via Sandburg's morning announcements. African-American art will be showcased throughout the school.
View Sandburg student artwork in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19772.
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Jefferson Elementary School first grade teacher wins Target field trips grant
First grade classrooms at Jefferson Elementary School will get an up-close look at life underwater, thanks to a grant won by Michelle Schreck, first grade teacher at Jefferson.
Schreck was selected from more than 16,000 applicants for a $1,000 Target field trip grant. The grant will be used to fund a field trip to Underwater Adventures at the Mall of America on April 29 for the school's 110 first graders. Students will learn and explore aquarium life and participate in the "Shark Bite" class and learn about food chains, which correlates to their science unit curriculum.
16. Kindergarten registration event dates announced (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19630.
17. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19611.
Middle School News and Events:
18. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Birds" Feb. 22, 23 and 24
What would happen if a bunch of goofball birds tried to take over the world? What if it happened in the 1980s? Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts will explore this premise in the school's new adaptation of Aristophanes' classic Greek play, "The Birds."
The play was originally written in 819 B.C. and is one of the oldest surviving plays in the history of theater. This new adaptation maintains a number of the aspects of the original script with things like a Greek chorus and characters at times speaking in verse, but it also introduces a new hilarious concept that should provide laughs for everyone (especially anyone who remembers the '80s). Every character is a parody of an '80s icon with appearances by such characters as Vanilla Ice, Boy George, Punky Brewster and lots more! The show is also packed full of great '80s moments and tributes.
The play is directed and newly adapted for the stage by Jefferson Fietek, with costumes by Deb Murphy and lighting designed by Stirling Callander. Musical numbers are choreographed by Nora Bichler.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students. Seating is reserved. Public performances are at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka:
• Friday, Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance) and 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.
For more information, call the FMMS Center for the Arts box office at 763-506-FMMS (3667).
19. Northdale Middle School celebrate multicultural month in January
January was "Multicultural Month" at Northdale Middle School. The school planned several activities to promote culture and encouraged students to recognize, learn about and appreciate all cultures:
• Each Tuesday morning before school, representatives from different cultures came and presented music from the Hmong, Latino and Russian cultures, in addition to other cultures through the Coon Rapids High School Vision ensemble.
• In addition, students learned a new language each Thursday morning from experts in Spanish, Russian, German and Japanese.
• Students from various cultures read poetry and described cultural history during Northdale's school announcements.
• A multicultural clothing and artifact display was available for students to view during lunch on Wednesday, Jan. 30.
"As a building, we are committed to educating students about diversity," said Northdale English teacher Angela Carlson, who organized the school's multicultural activities. "Because our school is so culturally diverse, it is important that we take time out to recognize, encourage and promote respectful interactions of all groups of people."
High School News and Events:
20. Coon Rapids High School FCCLA members celebrate National FCCLA Week, Feb. 10 through 16
Coon Rapids High School Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA-HERO) members will join more than 220,000 members in celebrating National FCCLA Week from Feb. 10 to 16. This year's theme is "made: making a difference everywhere."
During National FCCLA Week, members will participate in a variety of activities to address teen and societal concerns and show how Family and Consumer Sciences Education can help them achieve the ultimate leadership experience. Some of the activities include: decorating the school with FCCLA-HERO paraphernalia, a FCCLA-HERO medallion hunt, selling items to raise money for the Alexandra House shelter (and other charities) and recognizing random acts of kindness, respect and leadership.
Anoka-Hennepin has approximately 150 students that participate in FCCLA-HERO, with 50 members at Coon Rapids High School.
Minnesota FCCLA-HERO was developed in 1971 under the name Minnesota Association of Home Economics and Related Training (HEART). In 1981, HEART changed its name to HERO. In 2001, under the name of FCCLA-HERO, it chose to become part of the National FCCLA organization. Minnesota FCCLA-HERO remains a separate organization from Minnesota FCCLA (FLA/FHA) which allows the organization to focus on the uniqueness of the service occupations programs.
FCCLA is a nonprofit national career and technical student organization for students in family and consumer sciences education in public and private school through grade 12. It is unique as it is the only national career and technical student organization with the family as its central focus.
21. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program, deadline to apply is March 7
The Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program (SAMMY) recognizes outstanding grade 12 scholar athletes throughout the country and provides an opportunity for students to win a $7,500 college scholarship.
Through March 7, teachers, coaches, principals, guidance counselors, athletic directors, parents and relatives can nominate a student athlete for the SAMMY 2008 Award. High school seniors can also nominate themselves.
Judging of the nominees will be based on five criteria: academic performance, athletic excellence, leadership, community service and milk experience.
SAMMY 2008 applications will only be accepted online at: http://www.bodybymilk.com until March 7. America's Milk Processors and USA sponsor SAMMY TODAY. For official rules, visit
http://www.bodybymilk.com
.
College and Career Planning Events:
22. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
23. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers.
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Listed below is a workshop from Anoka-Hennepin's Community Education Program on college planning and scholarships. Don't miss this valuable learning opportunity!
WIN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
You don't have to be an academic superstar to win free college money. This popular course is taught by Jason Lum, a recent Harvard and UC Berkeley graduate, who won nearly $250,000 in scholarship money and worked in the Harvard admissions office. Participants will learn where to find unadvertised scholarship opportunities, how to complete scholarship forms, gather materials, and what works and doesn't work in competing for scholarship money. Class fee: $15.
• Thursday, Feb. 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka
• Visit Community Education online for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7607
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY MINNESOTA ASSOCIATION OF FINANCIAL AID ADMINISTRATORS
COLLEGE GOAL SUNDAY
College Goal Sunday is a national program that provides free information and assistance to families who are filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the federally required form for students seeking financial aid, such as grants and loans. Completing the FAFSA is the first and most important step in qualifying for aid.
The Minnesota Association of Financial Aid Administrators has one remaining local event planned to help students and parents complete the FAFSA:
1) FAFSA completion session at North Hennepin Community College room CLA 120 on Saturday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. Participants will receive assistance in completing the FAFSA.
Students should attend with a parent or guardian if possible. Participants will need to bring the following items: four-digit FAFSA pin number (students can apply for this ahead of time at: www.fafsa.ed.gov), social security number, driver's license number, 2007 tax returns for students and parents, information about savings, investments and assets for students and parents, records of untaxed income and alien registration number if not a U.S. citizen.
For more information, visit: http://www.mncollegegoalsunday.org. Anoka-Ramsey Community College is located at 11200 Mississippi Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids. North Hennepin Community College is located at 7411 85th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates, panels and conferences for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. These dates are open to all Anoka-Hennepin students and their parents.
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AND PANELS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: March 27 at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
• Andover High School College Questions Panel: Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. in the Andover High School media center. Six different college representatives from state, private, out-of-state, community and technical colleges will be in attendance. Each college will give a presentation on their school with a question and answer session.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS AND CONFERENCES
• College Week Live: March 25 and 26 online at http://www.collegeweeklive.com from noon to 11 p.m. (Eastern). More than 150 colleges will be represented online, with representatives and student panelists available for live discussions and questions.
• Normandale Community College: Wednesday, March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. More than 100 public and private, two-year, four-year, technical and military organizations will be present. Go to: http://www.mn-acac.org for more specific information.
• Colleges that Change Lives conference: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Millennium Hotel in Minneapolis. These are colleges around the country that look at the whole person, not just one view, such as ACT scores. Check out the book, "Colleges That Change Lives" at any library for more information. Go to http://www.CTCL.com for more information on this event.
25. Upcoming college and career preparation opportunities and options information for high school students (updated)
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days, college and career preparation opportunities and prepare college options information. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace or gain valuable college prep information. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours, college and career prep workshops available at your student's high school.
Here is an upcoming date for information on the Post Secondary Education Option (PSEO) and career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
POST SECONDARY EDUCATION OPTION (PSEO) SEMINAR
Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. in the Andover High School media center
A representative from Anoka-Ramsey Community College will explain the PSEO option and process. This event is held at Andover High School and is open to all Anoka-Hennepin students and their parents.
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
26. 2008 Bus Safety Poster Contest Winners
The following students are the first place winners of the district's 13th annual Bus Safety Poster Contest. The theme for this year's contest was "Avoid Harm, Obey the Stop Arm." Students had to design a poster that best illustrated this theme. The winners will receive awards and have their photos taken at the district Transportation Safety Meeting on March 5.
"The creativity, design and the messages the students displayed were exceptional," said Jeff Mueller, transportation safety coordinator. "It truly illustrates that the staff at our schools are teaching, promoting and reviewing the important rules of riding the school bus safely."
2008 CONTEST WINNERS
Sabina Salemohamed, kindergarten, Monroe Elementary School Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering
Kaitlyn Weimerskirch, grade one, Monroe Elementary School Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering
Carmelle West, grade two, Epiphany School
Michaela Kurtzman, grade three, Monroe Elementary School Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering
Alicia Beckfeld, grade four, Champlin Elementary School
Eric Ellingworth, grade five, Washington Elementary School
Justice Anderson, grade six, Sandburg Middle School
Megan Furrow, grade seven, Epiphany School
Taylor Schuweiler, grade eight, Epiphany School
The winning posters will be available to view online as soon as the electronic versions become available.
27. Students place in district spelling bee
The following students were named winners at the district's annual spelling bee, held at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts auditorium on Friday, Feb. 1:
Zack Sorenson, Roosevelt Middle School, first place
Brittany VanBuskirk, Jackson Middle School, second place
Mitch McIntyre, Jackson Middle School, third place
Schools can send multiple representatives from their individual school spelling bee to participate in the district bee. The contest is open to students in grades 6 through 8. Each student receives a participation ribbon with medals awarded to the top three finishers.
Community Education News and Events:
28. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1, 2008). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: http://www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
Reaching Out
Anoka-Hennepin schools are involved in helping those in need a variety of ways this past holiday season. Many schools collected items for food shelves and organized volunteer activities after school. Encouraging and helping students to give to those in need promotes compassion, a core value of Anoka-Hennepin's Character Education program. Backpack Online will include examples from our schools each week throughout the next several issues.
Read more examples from schools in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19121.
Listen to AHPN podcast episodes on examples of schools reaching out at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast. Click on the "AHPN Episodes 2007-08" folder and then click on episodes nine and 10. Additional schools will be featured in future podcast episodes.
29. Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science kindergarten class donates pajamas
In December, Barb Gronlund's kindergarten class at Riverview Specialty School donated 22 pairs of pajamas and 22 books to a local shelter. The class decided to contribute pajamas and books after learning that children often received these items when arriving at the shelter, said Gronlund.
"Our class talked about how fun it is to snuggle in jammies and read stories at night with our families," said Gronlund. "We thought it would be a great way to make the season special by sharing that feeling with other kids."
The class celebrated with a pajama day and brought favorite books to share with their classroom friends.
30. Rum River Elementary School participates in food drive
Rum River Elementary School students participated in a food drive during the week of Dec. 3 to help collect food items for the Anoka Christmas Committee. The school collected 4,917 items and $1,617.69 in monetary donations.
The school had a theme for each day of the drive and encouraged students to bring in a variety of items, said Melyssa Carlson, fifth grade teacher at Rum River. The theme days included canned foods, boxed foods, baking supplies, cereal and cash donations.
"It was a great success," said Carlson.
31. Sand Creek Elementary School collects items for local food shelves
Sand Creek Elementary School students collected 3,395 items in the school's December efforts for local food shelves. Roger Johnson's fifth grade class earned first place in the contest with 769 items collected. Judy Curtiss' fifth grade class came in second with 450 items and Amy Sundem's second grade class won third place with 419 items. Each of the top three classes received money to be used for a donation to the charity of their choice.
32. STEP Emergency Medical Career students collect "Toys for Tots"
Students in the Emergency Medical Careers class at the Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP) in Anoka collected 356 toys in the class' sixth annual "Toys for Tots" drive in December.
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Backpack Online #17 - Kindergarten registration events announced, Anoka High School students prepare for Feb. 5 caucuses and district students receive Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Anoka High School theater to perform "Wit" Feb. 6
2. Blaine High School presents "In the Limelight" Feb. 8, 9 and 10
Rumor Alert!
3. I heard the Anoka-Hennepin School District refuses to close for cold weather or bad snowstorms because it loses state money when the kids aren't in school.
School Board News:
4. Action of the School Board: January
General News and Events:
5. FOX 9's Top Teacher Award, deadline to nominate Feb. 14
6. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
7. Dr. David Walsh book discussion March 1
8. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
9. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
10. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
11. Community Education's Power Hour program featured in American Hospital Association publication
Elementary School News and Events:
12. Anoka and Blaine Cluster elementary schools honors choir concert Feb. 12
13. Kindergarten registration event dates announced
14. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program
15. Washington Elementary School wins "Wild About Reading" contest
Middle School News and Events:
16. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Birds" Feb. 22, 23 and 24
17. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts practices emergency procedure
High School News and Events:
18. Anoka High School students prepare for Feb. 5 caucuses
19. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program
20. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
21. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
22. High school career centers open to the public (link)
23. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students (updated)
25. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
26. District students receive 2007-08 Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards
Community Education News and Events:
27. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
28. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
29. Registration information for 2008-2009 School Readiness Preschool
30. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Useful Tips and Resources:
31. New technology and electronic violence data study
Reaching Out:
32. Blaine High School NHS, BPA, HOSA students and girls' hockey team coordinate community projects
33. Coon Rapids Middle School student council sponsors "Hat Day"
34. Crooked Lake Elementary School buys gifts for families in need
35. Dayton Elementary School participates in annual compassion project
36. Morris Bye Elementary School gives back to community in a variety of ways
Upcoming Events:
1. Anoka High School theater to perform "Wit" Feb. 6
The public is invited to attend Anoka High School's production of "Wit" on Wednesday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Anoka High School, 3939 N. Seventh Ave., Anoka. The event is free.
"Wit," written by Margaret Edson, is about a university English professor who is dying of ovarian cancer. As she copes with her life-threatening cancer, she assesses her own life through the intricacies of the English language, especially the use of wit and the metaphysical poetry of John Donne. The play won the 1999 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and was adapted into a cable television film in 2001.
2. Blaine High School presents "In the Limelight" Feb. 8, 9 and 10
The public is invited to attend Blaine High School's production of "In the Limelight" on Friday, Feb. 8 and Saturday, Feb. 9 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. The event will feature three one-act plays by students. General admission is $5. Blaine High School is located at 12155 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
Rumor Alert!
3. Rumor: I heard the Anoka-Hennepin School District refuses to close for cold weather or bad snowstorms because it loses state money when the kids aren't in school.
The facts: There is no connection between state funding and school days lost due to bad weather. School district funding is based on the number of students enrolled in school so closing for bad weather would have no impact on funding.
The decision to close school is taken very seriously. A variety of factors are considered, including the amount of snow and/or ice, extremely cold temperatures and wind chill, power outages, flooding, etc. Each situation is judged according to the conditions at the time in combination with the forecast for the northern metro area. Very early in the morning the superintendent and members of the Transportation Department drive around the district to check road conditions. For example, during last week's very cold morning, the superintendent walked approximately a mile and a half to experience the weather conditions before he decided to keep school open. Staff also confer with the three bus companies that serve the district and the county highway department and sheriff's office. In addition, they monitor weather reports.
The decision to close school affects many working families who would have to take a day off of work or find day care on short notice. Some families do not have these options and their children may be left home alone. Often, children are more at risk when we close school. As the largest school district in Minnesota, with more than 240,000 residents and 41,000 students, many families and businesses are affected when Anoka-Hennepin closes its schools.
Extremely cold weather is not unheard of in Minnesota. Many times it gets very cold in the state while school still is in session. By dressing children properly, parents/guardians can protect against the effects of cold weather.
In cases of extreme winter weather, parents/guardians have the ultimate decision on whether to send their child to school. Parents can choose to keep their children home because of the weather, and their children will have an excused absence for the day.
For more information on winter weather and closing schools, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us and click on the links on the main page.
School Board News:
4. Action of the School Board: January
Enrollment projections show continued downward trend
Georgia Kedrowski, assistant director of technology and information services for Anoka-Hennepin, presented the updated enrollment projections to the board during the Jan. 28 meeting. Total enrollment projected for the 2008-09 school year is 38,500 and kindergarten enrollment is projected at 2,552. As of Oct. 1, 2007 the district enrollment was at 39,164.
"The kindergarten class continues to be up and down, and more or less declining over the past 10 years," she said.
The projections were based on building permits issued in Andover, Anoka, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Coon Rapids, Ham Lake and Ramsey, and include permits for single- and multi-family units.
District expects no new state money in the next biennium
David Buck, director of business services, said that to maintain current staffing ratios, the total teaching staff would decline by 30 teachers. With the projected state deficit for the next biennium, he said, "the idea of additional revenue is questionable."
In addition, the district's declining enrollment projection will cause the district to lose about $4.2 million in per-student state aid for the next year. The district would save about $2.2 million by reducing the number of teachers required to accommodate the students, but that would leave a $2 million reduction.
Math curriculum adoption moving ahead
The math adoption team gave a report to the school board on Jan. 28 regarding the upcoming math curriculum adoption.
The committee met Jan. 18 and spent the day reviewing criteria for selecting a curriculum and examining the pros and cons of each program. They ended the day by selecting two finalists: the Investigations and Everyday Math series.
They will present their final recommendation to the board at the Feb. 11 board meeting.
In conjunction with the committee presentation, Nancy Nutting, executive director of SciMathMN, gave a presentation about developing mathematically powerful students.
Regardless of which curriculum the math adoption team selects, she said, the most important thing is that teachers follow the curriculum. She suggests that teachers stick to the curriculum 90 percent of the time, leaving 10 percent for teacher choice.
"Fidelity to a curriculum matters," Nutting said. "The stronger teachers are at implementing the curriculum, the bigger the improvement."
She complimented the math adoption team on their solid work on the process so far, and said both curricula "have plenty of evidence of being high quality."
Board members expressed concerns about the new curriculum producing results. Board member Tom Heidemann said the board has been trying to find the answer to disappointing student math scores.
Nutting said that the training is really the key piece. "Student achievement didn't change until at least that 30-hour teacher training mark," she said. "Whatever curriculum you choose, the more [training] you can provide, the more you will see results."
General News and Events:
5. FOX 9's Top Teacher Award, deadline to nominate Feb. 14
Nominations from the public are now being accepted for FOX 9 KMSP's fourth annual Top Teacher Awards campaign. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 14 and can be submitted by anyone who knows of an educator who has gone above and beyond, both inside and outside of the classroom.
A total of nine winners will be selected by a panel of community leaders, including teachers and administrators, to receive the Top Teacher Awards from FOX 9 anchors in separate surprise school assemblies, along with on-air recognition throughout the spring.
All nomination details, including a nomination form, can be found at www.myfox9.com, or metro area Subway restaurants. Please note this award is different from Anoka-Hennepin's Teacher Outstanding Performance (TOP) Award, which recognizes outstanding teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
6. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
The Coon Rapids High School student council will host the a cappella group Tonic Sol-Fa in a fundraiser concert Friday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Coon Rapids High School auditorium. Tonic Sol-Fa has been named one of the top five "must see" groups in America by Campus Activities Today Magazine, has won numerous original song and album awards and was nominated multiple times for the prestigious "Entertainer of the Year" award by the National Association of Campus Activities.
Tickets are on sale now for $15. For advanced tickets, contact Bonnie Hermann at 763-506-7191 or at: Bonnie.Hermann@anoka.k12.mn.us. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event. For more information call Coon Rapids High School at 763-506-7100. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
7. Dr. David Walsh book discussion March 1
The Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program endorses the following event. Interested parents/guardians are encouraged to attend.
Anoka-Hennepin parents/guardians are invited to attend a discussion of the ideas presented in Dr. David Walsh's book, "No: Why Kids of All Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It" on Saturday, March 1 at the Northtown Library, 711 County Road 10 N.E., Blaine, at 10:30 a.m.
Walsh is an award-winning author and president and founder of the National Institute on Media and the Family. He provides the antidote to discipline deficit disorder in his latest book "No: Why Kids of All Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It." Walsh also provides down-to-earth advice and strategies that can be used by parents, caregivers and all adults with children in their lives to nurture healthy, self-reliant children.
Participants for the event are encouraged to register at: www.melsa.org/go/parenting. The first 20 registrants will receive a copy of "No: Why Kids of all Ages Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It," courtesy of Friends of the Anoka County Library. The Metropolitan Library Service Agency (including Anoka County Library and others) is sponsoring the event. For more information about Walsh's presentation, the book discussion program, Friends of the Library or other library services, visit: www.anoka.lib.mn.us.
8. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
Happiness and sadness, surprise and anger are familiar emotions to many, yet few can capture them in words. The 2008 Writing Contest for Anoka-Hennepin School District students encourages students in first through fifth grades to do just that.
The contest information flier asks students to think of a time when something happened in their lives that created a strong feeling and write about it, describing smells, sounds, actions and people around them to help the reader see the experience for themselves.
Judges are looking for an imaginative title, organized beginning, middle and ending, interesting details or dialogue, correct spelling and punctuation and originality.
Stories are limited to 500 words and will be judged in four categories: first and second grade, third grade, fourth grade and fifth grade. Cash prizes will be awarded in each category, including first through third places and up to three honorable mentions.
The contest is open to students who live in or attend school in Anoka-Hennepin. Entries are due by March 11 (postmarked by March 7) and may be sent to Creative Writing Contest, c/o McKinley Elementary School, 1740 Constance Blvd., Ham Lake, MN 55304-6797.
The contest is co-sponsored by the Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the Anoka-Hennepin Education Foundation.
9. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
Parents, students, colleagues and others are invited to nominate an exemplary teacher-one who is improving student achievement, using innovative strategies, and making a difference in the lives of students-for an American Stars of Teaching award. The award, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors superior teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of their students.
Nominations are accepted through March 31. Winners will be announced this fall. For more information or to nominate someone, visit: http://www.t2tweb.us/AmStar/About.asp.
10. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 7 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Visit the following Web sites for course descriptions or for more information:
A-H News article: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19604
A-H Online Document Center:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter (click on the STEM folder to download a brochure)
Summer STEM Web site:
www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Scholarships may be available. Registration is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
11. Community Education's Power Hour program featured in American Hospital Association publication
Community Education's Power Hour program teaches children to make smart choices for healthy living. The after-school program is offered to students through collaborations between Anoka-Hennepin's Community Education Department and Allina's Mercy and Unity Hospitals.
The program was recently featured in the American Hospital Association's (AHA) "Community Connections, Making Communities Healthier" January publication, which focuses on the various ways in which hospitals provide for and benefit their communities.
Click on the following link to download the AHA publication: http://www.mnhospitals.org/index/tools-app/tool.357.
Click on the following link to read an article about the Power Hour program from last fall in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18233.
Elementary School News and Events:
12. Anoka and Blaine Cluster elementary schools honors choir concert Feb. 12
The public is invited to attend a free performance of the Anoka and Blaine Cluster elementary schools honors choir concert on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. in the Anoka High School auditorium.
The concert will feature a variety of musical styles and songs, including "Old Joe Clark," "Goin' to Boston," "America the Beautiful," "Haida" and much more. The choir is under the direction of Carolyn Kennedy (Blaine Cluster Choir) and Jean Remus (Anoka Cluster).
Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
13. Kindergarten registration event dates announced
Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools and kindergarten centers will host kindergarten registration events this March, April and May. Listed below are school's kindergarten registration dates. Registration information, along with an invitation to the event, is mailed out to families by schools a few weeks before the event.
If you don't receive an invitation from your neighborhood school, it means your child is not in the district database. Parents should call the Information Systems Department at 763-506-1030 to have their child added to the district mailing list. For more information on the district's kindergarten program, call the kindergarten hotline at 763-506-3925.
Adams Elementary School - April 17
Andover Elementary School - April 24
Champlin Elementary School - N/A*
Crooked Lake Elementary School - April 24
Dayton Elementary School - N/A*
Eisenhower Elementary School - April 28
Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School (An IB Primary Years Programme) - May 1 Franklin Elementary School - March 27
Hamilton Elementary School - May 5
Hoover Elementary School - March 13
Jefferson Elementary School - April 2
Johnsville Elementary School - April 9
Lincoln Elementary School - March 25
L.O. Jacob Elementary School - March 25
Madison Elementary School - March 27
McKinley Elementary School - March 25
Mississippi Elementary School - May 1
Monroe Elementary School Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering - April 8
Morris Bye Elementary School - April 10
Park View Early Childhood Center - April 15 and 17
Peter Enich Kindergarten Center - April 3
Oxbow Creek Elementary School - N/A*
Ramsey Elementary School - N/A*
Riverview Elementary School - March 27
Rum River Elementary School - March 31 and April 1
Sand Creek Elementary School - March 27
Sorteberg Elementary School - April 30
University Avenue Elementary School - March 25
Washington Elementary School - April 17
Wilson Elementary School - April 10
* = No kindergarten program at this school.
14. Limited openings remain for Kindergarten Extra program
There are a few spots remaining in the district's Kindergarten Extra program for 2008-09. The following schools are now accepting applications:
Morris Bye Elementary, Crooked Lake
Park View Early Childhood Center, Champlin
Peter Enich Kindergarten Center, Anoka
Rum River Elementary, Andover
The following schools are full, but are accepting names to be placed on a waiting list:
Riverview Specialty School, Brooklyn Park
Eisenhower Elementary, Coon Rapids
Crooked Lake Elementary, Andover
Johnsville Elementary, Blaine
For more information, please call the district's Kindergarten Hotline at 763-506-3925.
15. Washington Elementary School wins "Wild About Reading" contest
Jennifer Myers' fourth grade classroom at Washington Elementary School was recently named the winner of the Minnesota Wild hockey team's "Wild About Reading" contest.
The contest, presented by Innovative Office Solutions, was created in an effort to promote the importance of reading to students in kindergarten through grade six and to give students an incentive to read outside the classroom. Participating classrooms had to create a cheer that incorporates their love for reading, school, hockey, and of course, the Wild.
Myers' classroom won a trip to the Xcel Center to watch the Wild practice and a Wild goodie bag for each student. The classroom will also receive a special lunch and a visit from a Wild player, who will read to students.
Click on the following link to read Myer's classroom cheer: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19247.
Middle School News and Events:
16. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts presents "The Birds" Feb. 22, 23 and 24
What would happen if a bunch of goofball birds tried to take over the world? What if it happened in the 1980s? Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts will explore this premise in the school's new adaptation of Aristophanes' classic Greek play, "The Birds."
The play was originally written in 819 B.C. and is one of the oldest surviving plays in the history of theater. This new adaptation maintains a number of the aspects of the original script with things like a Greek chorus and characters at times speaking in verse, but it also introduces a new hilarious concept that should provide laughs for everyone (especially anyone who remembers the '80s). Every character is a parody of an '80s icon with appearances by such characters as Vanilla Ice, Boy George, Punky Brewster and lots more! The show is also packed full of great '80s moments and tributes.
The play is directed and newly adapted for the stage by Jefferson Fietek, with costumes by Deb Murphy and lighting designed by Stirling Callander. Nora Bichler choreographs musical numbers.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students. Seating is reserved. Public performances are at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts, 1523 Fifth Ave. S. in Anoka:
• Friday, Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance) and 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.
For more information, call the FMMS Center for the Arts box office at 763-506-FMMS (3667).
17. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts practices emergency procedure
"We are under lockdown." The words echoed through the halls of Fred Moore Middle School for the Arts.
Even though she knew it was a drill, guidance counselor Stacey Loos was a little freaked out as she opened the doors for Anoka police officers to enter Fred Moore Middle School on Jan. 11.
A few minutes after they were called, officers entered the building and assumed defensive positions as they cased the hallways, searching for an "intruder." Meanwhile, the police supervisors and the principal intently scanned the security camera monitors.
Ten minutes after the school was locked down, the police had finished the first sweep and caught the "intruder" - Fred Moore police liaison officer Tom Schneider. He was the one wearing the camouflage bucket hat and a shirt that said, "Bad guy call office."
Everyone in the school was told to call the office when they saw Schneider, and he didn't get far before someone did.
Principal Kathy Baufield was impressed with the performance of students and staff during the drill. Even though the bell went off during the drill, she said not one room door opened.
"They didn't come out when the bell rang," she said. "That's good."
The intruder drill was a first for both the school and the Anoka Police Department.
"We've always done our emergency drills separate from the police department," Loos said.
Students and teachers were warned in advance that the drill would take place on Jan. 11. They knew it would happen after lunch, but they didn't know at what time. Parents were told the same information.
"We've done a lot to communicate with parents," Loos said. "We want them to know it's a drill."
The all-clear announcement sounded through the school at 1:44 p.m.
In Baufield's office, police officers and school administrators assessed the experience. They agreed that some improvements could be made, but agreed it was a good practice run.
"Overall, I was impressed," said Sgt. Jason Huebner. "There were no open doors, the kids were sitting on the floor."
"Overall it was very good," said Captain Scott Nolan.
Loos was in charge of the effort, as part of her training for her administrative certificate. She said this will likely not be the last emergency preparedness drill the school will conduct, but next time the students and staff will have less advance notice. She is confident they will perform admirably.
View a photo of this event in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19620.
High School News and Events:
18. Anoka High School students prepare for Feb. 5 caucuses
School may have been dismissed at 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 23, but for Anoka High School students gathered in social studies room 102, their education was continuing.
AHS senior Anthony Maki was disappointed after the Iowa caucuses when he heard some of his friends saying that they didn't care about politics. He hoped the caucus information and opportunity to hear from the candidates would pique the interest of the approximately 40 students in attendance.
Anthony's mother Tammie Maki said this is typical of Anthony. "He wants everyone else to know what he knows," she said. "He said, 'I'm going to do this because they have to know what's going on.'"
Representatives of the Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and Ron Paul presidential campaigns, Mike Cerisi and Al Franken Senate campaigns, and U.S. House candidate Elwyn Tinklenberg attended the event. Each campaign or candidate had an opportunity to address the students.
Tinklenberg applauded the students' initiative to get information and encouraged them to attend their precinct caucuses.
"We need your participation and ideas," he told the students. "Don't be afraid to share that. This is going to be an historic year."
Representatives of the local DFL and Republican parties encouraged students to get involved as well. David Bonthuis of the DFL told students that if they are interested, they would have good odds at becoming a delegate to the regional caucus.
After the campaign representatives spoke, students took the opportunity to question them about issues ranging from the fair tax to military policy to negative campaigning.
Anoka High School John Belpedio said the school often has caucus information sessions, but this is the first time that there has been an after-school session, and the first time it has been organized by a student.
Juniors Katie Elsberry and Laura Lee, both of Ramsey, said they enjoyed the session, even though neither of them will be able to caucus this year.
"[Anthony] definitely stirred something with educating students," Elsberry said. "We can't caucus, but we can encourage people who can vote."
The two will be able to attend the Feb. 5 caucus as observers though, as can any student who is over 16.
Following Wednesday's event, Anthony has more hope for his fellow students.
"I was worrying about my naysayer friends, but obviously some people care, and it makes me more invigorated to see the campaigns and the media in support of youth," he said.
Students in search of more caucus information or a caucus precinct finder should visit the Minnesota Secretary of State Web site, www.sos.state.mn.us, and click on "voting and election information."
View a photo of this event in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19615.
19. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program
The Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program (SAMMY) recognizes outstanding grade 12 scholar athletes throughout the country and provides an opportunity for students to win a $7,500 college scholarship.
Through March 7, teachers, coaches, principals, guidance counselors, athletic directors, parents and relatives can nominate a student athlete for the SAMMY 2008 Award. High school seniors can also nominate themselves.
Judging of the nominees will be based on five criteria: academic performance, athletic excellence, leadership, community service and milk experience.
SAMMY 2008 applications will only be accepted online at: http://www.bodybymilk.com until March 7. America's Milk Processors and USA sponsor SAMMY TODAY. For official rules, visit http://www.bodybymilk.com.
20. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
21. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
22. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
23. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers.
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY FOCUS FINANCIAL
Mike Branch of Focus Financial presents the following sessions. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
• Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Listed below are two workshops from Anoka-Hennepin's Community Education Program on college planning and scholarships. Don't miss these valuable learning opportunities!
HOW TO GET INTO AND PAY FOR COLLEGE
College costs are escalating rapidly. Having the right knowledge and planning skills are critical to avoiding mistakes. Participants will learn how to select the right college and make your student more attractive to colleges. Financial topics include: reducing college costs, obtaining grants, minimizing debt and loans, myths about colleges and college aid and how FASFA and college aid work. Course material is appropriate for any family with children in high school or community college. Instructor Jay Renanav, Attorney and Financial consultant, has two children who have graduated from college and one currently in college. Class fee: $19 per family.
• Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka
• Visit Community Education online for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8163
WIN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
You don't have to be an academic superstar to win free college money. This popular course is taught by Jason Lum, a recent Harvard and UC Berkeley graduate, who won nearly $250,000 in scholarship money and worked in the Harvard admissions office. Participants will learn where to find unadvertised scholarship opportunities, how to complete scholarship forms, gather materials, and what works and doesn't work in competing for scholarship money. Class fee: $15.
• Thursday, Feb. 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka
• Visit Community Education online for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7607
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY MINNESOTA ASSOCIATION OF FINANCIAL AID ADMINISTRATORS
COLLEGE GOAL SUNDAY
College Goal Sunday is a national program that provides free information and assistance to families who are filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the federally required form for students seeking financial aid, such as grants and loans. Completing the FAFSA is the first and most important step in qualifying for aid.
The Minnesota Association of Financial Aid Administrators has two local events planned to help students and parents complete the FAFSA:
1) Informational meeting at Anoka-Ramsey Community College - Coon Rapids campus auditorium on Saturday, Feb. 9 at 10 a.m. The event will feature a presentation with a question and answer session.
2) FAFSA completion session at North Hennepin Community College room CLA 120 on Saturday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. Participants will receive assistance in completing the FAFSA.
Students should attend with a parent or guardian if possible. Participants will need to bring the following items: four-digit FAFSA pin number (students can apply for this ahead of time at: www.fafsa.ed.gov), social security number, driver's license number, 2007 tax returns for students and parents, information about savings, investments and assets for students and parents, records of untaxed income and alien registration number if not a U.S. citizen.
For more information, visit: www.mncollegegoalsunday.org. Anoka-Ramsey Community College is located at 11200 Mississippi Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids. North Hennepin Community College is located at 7411 85th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: March 27 at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
OTHER COLLEGE FAIRS
• College Week Live: March 25 and 26 online at www.collegeweeklive.com from noon to 11 p.m. (Eastern). More than 150 colleges will be represented online, with representatives and student panelists available for live discussions and questions.
25. Upcoming career sessions, career and tour days for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Dentistry, Feb. 7
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
26. District students receive 2007-08 Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards
Several Anoka-Hennepin middle and high school students received Gold and Silver Key awards and Awards of Merit in the 2007-08 Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards competition.
The Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards program (MSAA) is a statewide regional affiliation of the national Scholastic Art Awards program, which offers early recognition of creative teenagers and scholarship opportunities for graduating high school seniors.
MSAA program is open to all Minnesota students in grades 7 through 12. More than 1,000 artwork entries were submitted this year. Of those, 169 Gold and Silver Key entries were selected for an exhibition at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD). Merit Awards were given to 129 entries. Selected Gold Key artwork will continue on to the national competition in New York.
In addition to Gold and Silver Keys, scholarships and other honors are awarded in the Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards program, including scholarships to MCAD and its programs. Five Gold Key Award winners are to represent Minnesota's "Best of Show" in the national competition. One of these winners is selected as Minnesota's "American Vision." Selected Gold Key Award winners are also selected for merchant awards.
Student works will be on display in the MCAD Concourse Gallery through Feb. 17. This exhibition is free and open to the public.
BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL
Silver Key Award
Ryan Marsolek, grade 10, sculpture
Teacher: Peter Mesick
CHAMPLIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL
Gold Key Award
Brittany Lund, grade 11, sculpture
Teacher: Dolly Ptak
Silver Key Award
Laura Boller, grade 12, environmental products, design: plans/models
Teacher: Ellen M. Hoffman
Kat Chelstrom, grade 11, sculpture
Teacher: Dolly Ptak
Barbara Lee, grade 11, design: jewelry
Teacher: Ellen M. Hoffman
Merit Award
Rachel Brodin, grade 10, drawing
Teacher: Dolly Ptak
Brittany Lund, grade 11, ceramics and glass
Teacher: Jonathan Wynia
Hannah Novillo, grade 12, sculpture
Teacher: Dolly Ptak
Kyle Shute, grade 9, drawing
Teacher: Dolly Ptak
Merchant Awards: Minnesota Clay Company, $25
Brittany Lund, grade 11, sculpture
Teacher: Dolly Ptak
COON RAPIDS HIGH SCHOOL
Silver Key Award
Mark Olson, grade 12, ceramics and glass
Teacher: Sarah Hjelmberg
Alyssa Steinke, grade 10, ceramics and glass
Teacher: Sarah Hjelmberg
Merit Award
Katie Bartholomew, grade 12, sculpture
Teacher: Judith Fedo
Katherine Crockett, grade 12, mixed media
Teacher: Susan McLean Keeney
Abbi Dempesy, grade 12, sculpture
Teacher: Judith Fedo
Laura Gondek, grade 12, ceramics and glass
Teacher: Sarah Hjelmberg
NORTHDALE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Gold Key Award
Kendyl Valder, grade 8, drawing
Teacher: Alison Wanner
Silver Key Award
Cameron Clochie, grade 8, ceramics and glass
Teacher: Alison Wanner
Mariah Mooney, grade 8, ceramics and glass
Teacher: Alison Wanner
Merit Award
Nathalie Pedracine, grade 8, drawing
Teacher: Alison Wanner
Atalia Rickard, grade 8, ceramics and glass
Teacher: Alison Wanner
Community Education News and Events:
27. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
The Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is seeking people interested in coaching for the following after school athletic teams:
Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts
Contact Diane Whitcraft at 763-506-5012
1) Sixth grade girls' basketball coach: Jan. 22 through Feb. 14
2) Seventh grade boys' basketball coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
3) Girls' dance team coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
Sandburg Middle School
Contact Carla Hylle at 763-506-6012
1) Seventh grade boys' basketball coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
Oak View Middle School
Contact Nancy Knop at 763-506-5612
1) Seventh grade boys' basketball coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
If you or someone you know is interested in these after school coaching positions, please contact the person listed for each school.
28. Register for Andover children's T-ball league through June 6, coaches needed
Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is accepting registration through June 6 for Andover T-ball leagues. The focus of the T-ball program is to provide children with age appropriate skill development, social interaction, parent involvement and non-competitive contests.
The first week of the program will be two days of practice, with the last five weeks consisting of practice one day and games on the other day. This program is for all children who are 4, 5, and 6-years-old (must turn 4 by June 1, 2008). Coaches and assistants are needed.
For more information and meeting dates, times and locations, visit: www.discovercommunityed.com and click on "Available Courses," or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Backpack Online" folder to download the flier.
29. Registration information for 2008-2009 School Readiness Preschool
Registration information for the 2008-2009 School Readiness Preschool program were mailed to families with age eligible preschool children at the end of January. Call 763-506-1030 to be placed on the district mailing list if you do not receive registration information or the Families catalog.
Mail-in and drop off registrations are due Feb. 13. Registrations will be processed through a random drawing. Letters of registration confirmation will be mailed the week of Feb. 25. Phone-in registrations for remaining class openings will be accepted starting March 25.
School Readiness Preschool offers classes at 15 sites throughout the district. The preschool year begins the second week in September and ends in May. Fee assistance is available using a sliding fee based on income and family size.
Call 763-506-2480 for more information or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ce. Click on "School Readiness Preschool."
30. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Make a New Year's resolution to help the world become a better place! Tell a friend or neighbor about free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation; English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship.
Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
If your New Year's resolution is to help others discover the rewards of volunteering and working with adults to learn English, improve their basic math or reading skills, or learn to read to their child, call 763-783-4920 to volunteer at Metro North Adult Basic Education.
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-7863 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Useful Tips and Resources:
31. New technology and electronic violence data study
The following article appeared in the January issue of the Minnesota Safe and Drug Free Schools newsletter, "Making Connections." It links to a summary of the data and recommendations from a expert panel meeting on new technology and electronic violence, convened by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Anoka-Hennepin School District is a part of the Minnesota Safe and Drug Free Schools program and receives funds to ensure safe and drug free initiatives. Some of the district's Student Services programs are supported with these funds.
Electronic aggression is the newest term to describe all types of violence that occur electronically. It is referred to as cyber-bullying or Internet harassment and for many; it comes with emotional distress and conduct problems at
school.
Teenagers communicate electronically now more than ever. Eighty percent of all teenagers own some type of electronic device and they are text messaging, participating in chat rooms and logging on to social networking Web sites. For those who are isolated or have difficulty developing friendships, it is their connection to the outside world. For others, it has become a source of embarrassment and harassment.
Schools and families do have options but it will take collaboration: develop a plan to address electronic aggression; (include developing new practices and policies); implement monitoring practices; educate students, teachers and parents; implement a plan to support the reporting of electronic aggression incidents and the actions taken by school staff and parents.
An awareness of the unique and particularly troubling aspects of electronic aggression must be taught. Electronic aggression can occur at any time, be distributed quickly to a wide audience, and occur in virtual reality that can affect the everyday reality students' experience.
In September 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) convened a panel of experts to discuss issues related to this problem. A special issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health provides a summary of the information and directs readers to new resources. Visit: http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/electronic_aggression.htm and click on the "Journal of Adolescent Health" link at the bottom of the page.
Reaching Out
Anoka-Hennepin schools are involved in helping those in need a variety of ways this past holiday season. Many schools collected items for food shelves and organized volunteer activities after school. Encouraging and helping students to give to those in need promotes compassion, a core value of Anoka-Hennepin's Character Education program. Backpack Online will include examples from our schools each week throughout the next several issues.
Read more examples from schools in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19121.
Listen to AHPN podcast episodes on examples of schools reaching out at:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast. Click on the "AHPN Episodes 2007-08" folder and then click on episodes nine and 10. Additional schools will be featured in future podcast episodes.
32. Blaine High School NHS, BPA, HOSA students and girls' hockey team coordinate community projects
Blaine High School National Honor Society (NHS) students collected 931 pounds of food in the school's "Trick-or-Treat" food drive last Halloween. Students dressed up in costumes and "trick-or-treated" for food on Halloween. The school also had a contest between first hour classes to encourage student donations and participation in the drive, said Emily Widen, social studies teacher and NHS advisor. The school's collection was donated to the Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP).
The Blaine High School Business Professionals of America (BPA) students raised $4,500 last November in the school's 10th annual "Teddy Bear Challenge." Funds collected from the event were used to purchase teddy bears for sick children in the Children's and Fairview hospitals. In the past 10 years, BPA students have raised more than $37,000.
Blaine High School Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) students donated gifts to Anoka families this past holiday season. Working with Elim Transitional Housing Inc, HOSA students were provided with the wish lists of four families in need. Money collected from fundraising was used to purchase and wrap gifts for the families. Case managers for the families came to Blaine High School to pick-up and deliver the gifts to the families.
The Blaine High School girls' hockey team sponsored a drive last December to collect money to purchase teddy bears for the Children's Hospital. The drive collected enough money and donations of teddy bears from the community to send 700 bears to the hospital. The team plans to purchase Valentine-themed teddy bears in the next few weeks with additional funds received after the drive.
33. Coon Rapids Middle School student council sponsors "Hat Day"
Coon Rapids Middle School students collected $340 with a "Hat Day" fundraiser on Dec. 7. Students could wear a hat to school on that day if they made a donation. The Coon Rapids Middle School student council sponsored the event. The proceeds from the event were used to purchase holiday gifts for teenagers in Anoka County.
34. Crooked Lake Elementary School buys gifts for families in need
Crooked Lake Elementary School once again participated in the Family-to-Family program this past holiday season by sponsoring three Anoka County families in need. The school collected more than $2,500 between Nov. 19 and Dec. 7 and used the funds to purchase gifts for the families.
Crooked Lake Elementary School student council members purchased the gifts with the help of their parents and wrap the gifts at school on Dec. 10.
35. Dayton Elementary School participates in annual compassion project
During the week of Dec. 5; Dayton Elementary School students participated in the school's annual "Make Spirits Bright" project, in which students raised more than $2,600 for 24 Dayton families in need.
Money collected from the project was used to purchase items like clothing from the families' wish lists and gift cards. Each family also received three boxes of food items and one bag of hygiene items. Gifts were delivered to families on Dec. 19 and 20.
In the past two years, Dayton has supported 52 families with their "Make Spirits Bright" project.
36. Morris Bye Elementary School gives back to community in a variety of ways
Students at Morris Bye Elementary School gave back to the community in a variety of ways during the holiday season:
Students collected three cases of food for the Anoka County Food Shelf also donated more than 300 pairs of socks in the "Socks for Seniors" drive.
Morris Bye staff donated money to help support 15 community families for the holidays. The money was used to purchase food for food baskets. The baskets also included gifts for children purchased by the Faith Lutheran Church.
Brownie Troop 1957, comprised of Morris Bye students, assisted the family of an African immigrant who was severely burned in a house fire during the holidays. The troop, under the leadership of Sue Hieb-Stewart, provided a holiday party for the family and purchased grocery certificates and gifts.
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Backpack Online #16 - STEM summer enrichment institute for secondary students, Cheryl Sill named Minnesota Outstanding Earth Science Teacher of the Year and Superintendent's Column. |
Question of the Week
1. When will the 2008-09 school year calendar be ready?
2. Why are the portions given to kindergartners the same size portions given to fifth graders?
General News and Events:
3. FOX 9's Top Teacher Award, deadline to nominate Feb. 14
4. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
5. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
6. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
7. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
8. Cheryl Sill named Minnesota Outstanding Earth Science Teacher of the Year
9. High school and middle school registration guides now available to download
10. Stay healthy this winter - hand washing tips
Elementary School News and Events:
11. Coon Rapids High School "Mini-Cards" cheerleading clinic for elementary students Jan. 26
12. Elementary school classrooms named finalists in "Wild About Reading" contest
High School News and Events:
13. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program
14. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
15. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
16. High school career centers open to the public (link)
17. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students (updated)
18. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
19. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
20. Andover High School students advance to National Forensic League speech tournament
Superintendent's Column
21. Review of Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fair
Community Education News and Events:
22. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
23. New School Readiness Preschool classes to start in February
24. Registration information for 2008-2009 School Readiness Preschool
25. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
26. Coon Rapids High School raises money through a "Miracle Minute"
27. Hamilton Elementary School provide holiday boxes to families in need
28. Franklin Elementary School participates in "Mitten Tree" and food drives; seeks public donations for "Drop Your Socks" drive
29. Johnsville Elementary School students "Slip Into Giving" with food drive and Adopt a Family program
30. McKinley Elementary School participates in food drive
31. Roosevelt Middle School collects "Oodles of Noodles" in food drive
32. Wilson Elementary School donates to Heifer International
Question of the Week:
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
View the Question of the Week archives online at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/question.
(1) Question: When will the 2008-09 school year calendar be ready?
Response: The calendar cannot be developed until the state has set test dates for next year, usually sometime in February. A committee that involves representation from parents, teachers and administrators then develops the calendar and submits it to the School Board. The calendar is usually available to the public in March or April, once approved by the School Board. The 2008-09 school year calendar will be posted on the front page of the district's Web site and announced in Backpack Online when it is ready.
(2) Question: There is so much waste when it comes to school lunches. Why are the portions given to kindergartners the same size portions given to fifth graders? Couldn't money be saved by dishing out more appropriate servings and letting kids get more if needed?
Response: Streamlining the portion sizes helps to keep the costs of school lunch as low as possible, said Allison Bradford, director of Child Nutrition. Having multiple sizes would make standardizing the nutritional analysis difficult in the K-5 programs. Students don't always come in order by grade to lunch, and smaller hamburger patties, buns, etc. often cost as much or more as larger ones. Adding to that is the complexity of stocking multiple sizes of some items.
"It would cost more money to stock multiple sizes of some items," said Bradford. "What we're doing now is most efficient for the district."
General News and Events:
3. FOX 9's Top Teacher Award, deadline to nominate Feb. 14
Nominations from the public are now being accepted for FOX 9 KMSP's fourth annual Top Teacher Awards campaign. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 14 and can be submitted by anyone who knows of an educator who has gone above and beyond, both inside and outside of the classroom.
A total of nine winners will be selected by a panel of community leaders, including teachers and administrators, to receive the Top Teacher Awards from FOX 9 anchors in separate surprise school assemblies, along with on-air recognition throughout the spring.
All nomination details, including a nomination form, can be found at www.myfox9.com, or metro area Subway restaurants.
Please note this award is different from Anoka-Hennepin's Teacher Oustanding Performance (TOP) Award, which recognizes outstanding teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
4. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
The Coon Rapids High School student council will host the a cappella group Tonic Sol-Fa in a fundraiser concert Friday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Coon Rapids High School auditorium. Tonic Sol-Fa has been named one of the top five "must see" groups in America by Campus Activities Today Magazine, has won numerous original song and album awards and was nominated multiple times for the prestigious "Entertainer of the Year" award by the National Association of Campus Activities.
Tickets are on sale now for $15. For advanced tickets, contact Bonnie Hermann at 763-506-7191 or at: Bonnie.Hermann@anoka.k12.mn.us. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event. For more information call Coon Rapids High School at 763-506-7100. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
5. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students, deadline March 7
Happiness and sadness, surprise and anger are familiar emotions to many, yet few can capture them in words. The 2008 Writing Contest for Anoka-Hennepin School District students encourages students in first through fifth grades to do just that.
The contest information flier asks students to think of a time when something happened in their lives that created a strong feeling and write about it, describing smells, sounds, actions and people around them to help the reader see the experience for themselves.
Judges are looking for an imaginative title, organized beginning, middle and ending, interesting details or dialogue, correct spelling and punctuation and originality.
Stories are limited to 500 words and will be judged in four categories: first and second grade, third grade, fourth grade and fifth grade. Cash prizes will be awarded in each category, including first through third places and up to three honorable mentions.
The contest is open to students who live in or attend school in Anoka-Hennepin. Entries are due by March 11 (postmarked by March 7) and may be sent to Creative Writing Contest, c/o McKinley Elementary School, 1740 Constance Blvd., Ham Lake, MN 55304-6797.
The contest is co-sponsored by the Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the Anoka-Hennepin Education Foundation.
6. Nominate a teacher for the American Stars of Teaching award, deadline is March 31
Parents, students, colleagues and others are invited to nominate an exemplary teacher-one who is improving student achievement, using innovative strategies, and making a difference in the lives of students-for an American Stars of Teaching award. The award, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors superior teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of their students.
Nominations are accepted through March 31. Winners will be announced this fall. For more information or to nominate someone, visit: http://www.t2tweb.us/AmStar/About.asp.
7. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) summer enrichment institute for secondary students, deadline to register is May 2
The Anoka-Hennepin Math and Science summer enrichment institute is an opportunity for a limited number of students going into grades 7 through 12 to explore areas of mathematics and science not generally taught in existing courses. Students will be asked to think differently about math and science as they investigate new concepts and activities.
Listed below are brief descriptions of courses offered at the institute. Visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the STEM folder to download a brochure with full course listings, cost, grade levels, etc. or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/summerstem for more information. Brochures and promotional DVDs will be mailed to schools this week.
All About Horses (July 7 through 11)
Do horses fascinate you? During this experience students will be assigned their own horse to care for and ride. Explore horse breeds and their importance in history. Visit the new equine program at the University of Minnesota to learn about the latest research and health analysis for horses. This course will be an exciting and authentic experience for any horse lover.
Extreme Science - Metro Style (June 23 through 27)
Student will venture into the realm of the known and yet to be discovered through a sampling of the sciences: astronomy, geology, biology, chemistry, hydrology and physics. The day will be filled with fun as students investigate science questions through journaling our everyday observations. Planned field trips to: Como Zoo, WCCO, Minnehaha Falls, Wargo Nature Center, St. Paul Brickyards, Fort Snelling State Park, Sherburne Wildlife Refuge and Valleyfair.
Special Note: Participants will be hiking on average two miles per day. Please dress appropriately for the weather, including a good pair of tennis shoes, sunscreen, bug spray and a hat.
Patterns and Tunes (July 14 through 18)
Do you enjoy music? Do you like math? If you do, then this is the perfect course for you! This course will explore the relationships between pitches and their frequencies, including examining why major chords sound so good to listen to. Students will have access to the Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts music lab everyday, where they will work with the sound studio to explore how mathematics is in the music that you play!
Biotechnology (July 7 through 11)
Students will explore the fascinating field of biotechnology and nanotechnology. Find out what these cutting edge topics are all about and have a chance to debate related ethical issues. Students will perform some experiments using DNA and take a field trip to a local biotechnology business.
Engineering Energy Challenge (June 16 through 20)
In this class, students will learn new and exciting ways of generating electricity by building a generator and participating in experiments to determine the efficiency of a small engine. A field trip is planned to a fuel cell technology plant. Student will able to see where new and highly advanced power generators are designed and built.
The Brain Connection (June 23 through June 27)
Have you ever wondered how the brain works or how things affect the brain? Some of the most groundbreaking work in science today is being done in the field of neuroscience. In this summer experience, students will have the opportunity to examine real brains, visit a neuroscience lab and a neuroscience clinic. Students will also learn about memory, effects of drugs on the brain, sensory perception, neuro-disorders and disease.
Western Field Trip (June 23 through 30)
Do you like to hike, canoe, camp, fossil dig and explore? Join us in an adventure that will head west out of Minnesota to explore seven national parks over the course of eight days and seven nights. Students will search for fossils, walk where the dinosaurs once roamed, view the night sky with telescopes and learn about how the western landscape was formed.
Marine Biology (July 15 through 22 or July 22 through 29 or July 29 through Aug. 5)
Join us for eight days and seven nights studying the coral reefs of Grand Cayman. Learn SCUBA skills and explore one of the most beautiful coral reef ecosystems in the world. Dive training will begin in February at a local pool. Training continues in Grand Cayman and will include 14 to 17 dives.
Fishing Minnesota (June 19 and June 23 through 26)
Experience Minnesota by fishing one of its premiere fisheries, Upper Red Lake. Students will fish for walleye and pike and travel to the Lund Boat Factory, Northland Fishing Tackle and tour the DNR Fisheries. Students will have the ultimate experience in hands-on outdoor exploration of biology, geology, engineering and ecology.
Pathfinder: Space Adventure (June 13 through 15)
Pathfinder is a three-day, two-night program at the Rocket and Space Center in Huntsville, Ala. Experience a simulated shuttle mission by training in a three-part simulator to launch a Space Shuttle, dock it to the International Space Station, re-enter the earth's atmosphere and safely land. Students will build and launch rockets and visit the space museum where they can
test astronaut-training equipment. Students will also enjoy a fascinating IMAX film and tour one of the largest lunar and propulsion collections in the world.
Disney Y.E.S.! (Youth Education Series) (June 23 through 26)
What do Disney theme parks and science have in common? Join us as we explore the science behind the attractions at Disney. Each day will begin with a three-hour session at one of the Disney parks. Sessions will include: Properties of Motion which will explore physics concepts of mechanics at select Magic Kingdom attractions, Disney's Wild by Nature at Animal Kingdom will be a walk on the wild side, exploring the fascinating and surprising world of animal behavior and Everyday Chemistry at EPCOT will use hands on experiments to discover the mysterious world of Chemistry. After the sessions, students will have time to explore the parks.
Questions about course offerings can be directed to Nancy DuBois at 763-506-1075 or Randy Smasal at 763-506-1067.
Scholarships may be available. Registration begins Thursday, Jan. 24 and is due by Friday, May 2. Register and pay online for institute classes at: www.discovercommunityed.com (click on available courses and then click on Math and Science summer enrichment institute).
8. Cheryl Sill named Minnesota Outstanding Earth Science Teacher of the Year
The National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) recently named Cheryl Sill, science teacher at Coon Rapids Middle School, the 2007 Minnesota Outstanding Earth Science Teacher of the Year.
NAGT works to foster improvement in the teaching of the earth sciences at all levels of formal and informal instruction, to emphasize the cultural significance of the earth sciences and to disseminate knowledge in this field to the general public. The organization offers several awards, including the Outstanding Earth Science Teacher award program.
Outstanding Earth Science Teacher awards are given at the state, regional and national levels for exceptional contributions to the stimulation of interest in the Earth Sciences at the secondary level. Middle school and high-school teachers are eligible. Sill also received the distinction of Honorable Mention for the Central Section, which consists of Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan and the southern and western sections of Ontario.
Sill received a free membership to the Geological Society of America and a large wall map of the world as part of the award.
"It is quite an honor to be recognized by my peers, since we tend to be so isolated in our classrooms," said Sill.
Sill will be honored at the Geological Society of America conference in Denver next summer. Sill's Coon Rapids Middle School colleague Kirk Enzenaur, science teacher, won the award in 2006.
9. High school and middle school registration guides now available to download
In the next few months, students will begin registering for middle and high school courses. Detailed registration guides will be distributed to students this month and are now posted online on the district Web site for parents and students who want to get a head start on school planning. Schools may also distribute detailed information tailored for their students. Questions on registration should be directed to your child's school.
Click on the following link to download the middle school registration guide:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31737&catfilter=11776.
Click on the following link to download the high school registration guide:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=32028&catfilter=11776.
10. Stay healthy this winter - hand washing tips
There is no substitute for washing hands with soap and water. The Anoka-Hennepin Health Services Department reminds parents to have their children cover their coughs and wash hands frequently and thoroughly. Read the details in the following article, reprinted from Science News and endorsed by Anoka-Hennepin Health Services.
Do you know how best to rid your hands of microbes? It has long been thought that alcohol-based skin cleansers are effective for killing bacteria and viruses on the hands. They are favored by travelers since they are easy to carry in a pocket or handbag, and are known to kill a wide variety of common bacteria and viruses. However, Emery University researchers have found that while alcohol-based products are better than nothing, they do not rid the hands of Norwalk viruses (noroviruses), the notorious cause of cruise ship epidemics of diarrhea and vomiting.
In looking for the best anti-norovirus treatment, the researchers compared washing the hands with antibacterial soap, applying an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, or just washing them with ordinary soap before rinsing them thoroughly in running water. Washing with ordinary soap and lots of running water was, by far, most effective. It removed 96 percent of norovirus that had been applied to the hands. Washing with antibacterial soap and water removed only 88 percent of the virus, and the alcohol-based hand sanitizer removed only about half of it. Also, antibacterial soaps encourage development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and are environmentally unfriendly.
Soap removes oil from the skin, something that plain water does not do well. Possibly, many of us do not rinse our hands enough after soaping them and thereby do not remove all the soapy grime that harbors viruses and bacteria. Therefore, the best advice is to first wash your hands with soap and water and then rinse them thoroughly with a copious amount of running water several times a day, especially after shaking hands and touching doorknobs, etc. Also, don't rub your eyes or touch your lips, nose or face without washing your hands first. This should greatly increase your changes of remaining healthy this winter season.
Elementary School News and Events:
11. Coon Rapids High School "Mini-Cards" cheerleading clinic for elementary school students Jan. 26
The Coon Rapids High School cheerleading team will host a "Mini-Cards" cheerleading clinic on Saturday, Jan. 26 from 8:30 to noon at Coon Rapids High School. The cost of the event is $35 after Jan. 21 or day of the clinic.
The event is sponsored by the Coon Rapids High School cheerleading team and is open to all students in kindergarten through fifth grade who are interested in learning more about cheerleading. Clinic participants will receive instruction on cheers, jumps, stunting and tumbling.
Participants will receive a snack, gift bag, a photo with the Coon Rapids Cardinal mascot and a family pass to the Coon Rapids High School Varsity basketball game on Friday, Feb. 2. Participants will also have the opportunity to cheer and perform at the half-time show on Feb. 2.
For more information or to register, contact Teresa Ewins at 763-208-3036 or at: tewins8@aol.com. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
12. Elementary school classrooms named finalists in "Wild About Reading" contest
Jennifer Myers' fourth grade classroom at Washington Elementary School and Kate Horton's first grade classroom at Johnsville Elementary School are wild about reading. Both classes were recently named as finalists in the Minnesota Wild hockey team's "Wild About Reading" contest.
The contest, presented by Innovative Office Solutions, was created in an effort to promote the importance of reading to students in kindergarten through grade six and to give students an incentive to read outside the classroom. Participating classrooms have to create a cheer that incorporates their love for reading, school, hockey, and of course, the Wild. The 12 finalists' cheers were posted online for public voting, which ended Jan. 15.
Listed below is Myers' classroom cheer:
Reading is wild! Reading is cool.
You can read anywhere, not just at school!
If you can read, you can write, and that will make you very bright!
So pick up a book and take a look, see what you can find,
reading the pages cover-to-cover will surely enrich your mind!
Take your shot! Set a goal! Reading is good for your soul!
Reading is wild for every child, so do a good deed… and help someone learn to read!
Listed below is Horton's classroom cheer:
Like a puck and a stick,
books give us a shot.
B-O-O-K
Books are great!
Books are hot!
Hard work and practice
make us stronger each day.
Reading good books
just takes us away.
We're wild about books!
Huh?
Wild about books!
What?
Wild about books!
We won't mask our pride
learning is our first goal.
With reading on our side
we can take control.
We're wild about books!
They help us to think.
Books are the icing
on (3-2-1)
our rink!
High School News and Events:
13. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program
The Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Program (SAMMY) recognizes outstanding grade 12 scholar athletes throughout the country and provides an opportunity for students to win a $7,500 college scholarship.
Through March 7, teachers, coaches, principals, guidance counselors, athletic directors, parents and relatives can nominate a student athlete for the SAMMY 2008 Award. High school seniors can also nominate themselves.
Judging of the nominees will be based on five criteria: academic performance, athletic excellence, leadership, community service and milk experience.
SAMMY 2008 applications will only be accepted online at: http://www.bodybymilk.com until March 7. America's Milk Processors and USA sponsor SAMMY TODAY. For official rules, visit
http://www.bodybymilk.com
.
14. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to: http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
15. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
16. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
17. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers.
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY FOCUS FINANCIAL
The following sessions are presented by Mike Branch of Focus Financial. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
• Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Listed below are two workshops from Anoka-Hennepin's Community Education Program on college planning and scholarships. Don't miss these valuable learning opportunities!
HOW TO GET INTO AND PAY FOR COLLEGE
College costs are escalating rapidly. Having the right knowledge and planning skills are critical to avoiding mistakes. Participants will learn how to select the right college and make your student more attractive to colleges. Financial topics include: reducing college costs, obtaining grants, minimizing debt and loans, myths about colleges and college aid and how FASFA and college aid work. Course material is appropriate for any family with children in high school or community college. Instructor Jay Renanav, Attorney and Financial consultant, has two children who have graduated from college and one currently in college. Class fee: $19 per family.
• Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka
• Visit Community Education online for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8163
WIN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
You don't have to be an academic superstar to win free college money. This popular course is taught by Jason Lum, a recent Harvard and UC Berkeley graduate, who won nearly $250,000 in scholarship money and worked in the Harvard admissions office. Participants will learn where to find unadvertised scholarship opportunities, how to complete scholarship forms, gather materials, and what works and doesn't work in competing for scholarship money. Class fee: $15.
• Thursday, Feb. 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka
• Visit Community Education online for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7607
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY MINNESOTA ASSOCIATION OF FINANCIAL AID ADMINISTRATORS
COLLEGE GOAL SUNDAY
College Goal Sunday is a national program that provides free information and assistance to families who are filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the federally required form for students seeking financial aid, such as grants and loans. Completing the FAFSA is the first and most important step in qualifying for aid.
The Minnesota Association of Financial Aid Administrators has two local events planned to help students and parents complete the FAFSA:
1) Informational meeting at Anoka-Ramsey Community College - Coon Rapids campus auditorium on Saturday, Feb. 9 at 10 a.m. The event will feature a presentation with a question and answer session.
2) FAFSA completion session at North Hennepin Community College room CLA 120 on Saturday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. Participants will receive assistance in completing the FAFSA.
Students should attend with a parent or guardian if possible. Participants will need to bring the following items: four-digit FAFSA pin number (students can apply for this ahead of time at: www.fafsa.ed.gov), social security number, driver's license number, 2007 tax returns for students and parents, information about savings, investments and assets for students and parents, records of untaxed income and alien registration number if not a U.S. citizen.
For more information, visit: www.mncollegegoalsunday.org. Anoka-Ramsey Community College is located at 11200 Mississippi Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids. North Hennepin Community College is located at 7411 85th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park.
18. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: March 27 at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
19. Upcoming career sessions, career and tour days for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Dentistry, Feb. 7
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
20. Andover High School students advance to National Forensic League speech tournament
Andover High School students Michael Capp, grade 12, and Kevin Capp, grade 11, recently qualified for the National Forensic League (NFL) national tournament on June 15 through 20 in Las Vegas, Nev. in the Public Forum Debate category.
NFL is one of the premier speech and debate honor societies in the nation. NFL works to promote interscholastic debate, oratory, public speaking and interpretation of literature. National speech and debate tournaments are held in June each year. The national tournaments consist of six main speech events, four types of debate competition, two consolation speech events and four supplemental speech events.
Superintendent's Column
21. Review of Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fair
By Dr. Roger Giroux, Superintendent
Some days my role as Superintendent is more rewarding than others. Whenever I have the opportunity to see our students perform, work and learn I have a really good day. The Anoka-Hennepin Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Fair (STEM) was held at Blaine High School this past weekend. More than one thousand students presented their projects to the judges. The projects were excellent and the students were most enjoyable.
If you have ever been the parent of a science fair student you know the day comes with no small amount of anxiety and last minute work. There is a point in every project when the presentation takes over from the content. For many this occurs the night before. I often wonder how many moms and dads approach science fair Saturday with a dread of science fair Friday night and the last minute "I gotta have" from their young Einstein. I look at some of the projects and wonder just how much of the house was taken down with the experiment. Fifty years ago I can remember ruining the third oil cloth on Mom's kitchen table before I was relegated to the garage. Nevertheless this is one of the most enjoyable Saturdays of the year.
If you have judged for more than a few years you can see a distinct increase in rigor and sophistication at all ages. Gone, for the most part, is the family dog looking all too hungry as junior explains which food it likes best (leg of superintendent). The volcanoes seem tamer as well although a heavily stained shirt is still possible.
At the upper grades the project isn't a report, it's an experiment. The content isn't an absolute or a definition, it's a comparison, a proof of relationship, a statistical analysis of difference based on probability, a discovery based on repetition, measurement and note taking. The STEM disciplines are problem solving disciplines and success requires math, as well as science, as well as written expression, as well as speech and presentation. To learn content and respond to questions about that content on a written test is one type of measured performance. To state a question in the form of hypothesis, test the viability of the hypothesis with structured experimentation and then present and defend your findings to an independent judge, now that's a test of learning.
I congratulate and celebrate all of the students and each of the students who participated in this science fair. Well done! Thank you! Parents, our thanks is extended to you as well. Judges, it takes a Saturday out of your schedule but we appreciate your time and contribution on behalf of our young people.
To the teachers who prepare these students and the teachers who make this day possible, I extend a special thanks. I hope we can continue this good work and that "science fair Saturday" continues as a part of the Anoka-Hennepin calendar.
Another event was held simultaneously with the science fair. The State of Minnesota sponsored a regional science summit. The summit brought together representatives of science-based industries and post secondary institutions to discuss educational and career issues with parents and students. It is a great model for both information exchange and motivation. The format worked well with our parents and students. In this age of computer-based communication, the summit provided a model of person-to-person communication so important to understanding.
Community Education News and Events:
22. Community Education Athletics Department seeks middle school coaches
The Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Athletics Department is seeking people interested in coaching for the following after school athletic teams:
Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts
Contact Diane Whitcraft at 763-506-5012
1) Sixth grade girls' basketball coach: Jan. 22 through Feb. 14
2) Seventh grade boys' basketball coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
3) Girls' dance team coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
Sandburg Middle School
Contact Carla Hylle at 763-506-6012
1) Seventh grade boys' basketball coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
Oak View Middle School
Contact Nancy Knop at 763-506-5612
1) Seventh grade boys' basketball coach: Feb. 19 through Apr. 9
If you or someone you know is interested in these after school coaching positions, please contact the person listed for each school.
23. New School Readiness Preschool classes to start in February
The Community Education School Readiness Preschool Program is starting two new classes in February.
FRIDAY PRESCHOOL
Classes for 3 and 4 year olds will be offered at the Andover Preschool and Family Place. This class is a good first school experience with fun learning activities and the opportunity to play with other children.
• Friday mornings from Feb. 1 through May 23.
• 9 to 11 a.m.
• 15-week session
• Children must be 3 years old on or by Sept. 1, 2007.
Saturday Preschool
Classes for 4 and 5 year olds will be held at Coon Rapids Family Place and at Champlin Family Place. These classes offer readiness activities and build social skills to help prepare children for kindergarten.
• Saturday mornings from Feb. 2 to Apr. 19.
• 9 to 11:30 a.m.
• 10-week session
• Children must be 4 years old on or by Sept. 1, 2007.
A sliding fee scale based on family size and income is available to help pay tuition. Andover Preschool and Family Place is located at 13632 Crosstown Blvd. in Crosstown Square in Andover. Coon Rapids Family Place is located at 11254 Crooked Lake Blvd. in the Family Center Mall in Coon Rapids. Champlin Family Place is located at 12443 Champlin Dr. in Champlin. For more information call 763-506-2480.
24. Registration information for 2008-2009 School Readiness Preschool
Registration information for the 2008-2009 School Readiness Preschool program will be mailed to families with age eligible preschool children at the end of January. Call 763-506-1030 to be placed on the district mailing list if you do not receive registration information or the Families catalog.
Mail-in and drop off registrations are due Feb. 13. Registrations will be processed through a random drawing. Letters of registration confirmation will be mailed the week of Feb. 25. Phone-in registrations for remaining class openings will be accepted starting March 25.
School Readiness Preschool offers classes at 15 sites throughout the district. The preschool year begins the second week in September and ends in May. Fee assistance is available using a sliding fee based on income and family size.
Call 763-506-2480 for more information or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ce.
25. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Make a New Year's resolution to help the world become a better place! Tell a friend or neighbor about free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation; English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship.
Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
If your New Year's resolution is to help others discover the rewards of volunteering and working with adults to learn English, improve their basic math or reading skills, or learn to read to their child, call 763-783-4920 to volunteer at Metro North Adult Basic Education.
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-7863 or email: Patrice.Adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out
Anoka-Hennepin schools are involved in helping those in need a variety of ways this past holiday season. Many schools collected items for food shelves and organized volunteer activities after school. Encouraging and helping students to give to those in need promotes compassion, a core value of Anoka-Hennepin's Character Education program. Backpack Online will include examples from our schools each week throughout the next several issues.
Read more examples from schools in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19121.
Listen to AHPN podcast episodes on examples of schools reaching out at:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ahpodcast. Click on the "AHPN Episodes 2007-08" folder and then click on episodes nine and 10. Additional schools will be featured in future podcast episodes.
26. Coon Rapids High School raises money through a "Miracle Minute"
Coon Rapids High School students were involved in a variety of activities this past holiday season, which were organized by the school's student council.
On Dec. 5, students collected $2,500 in the school's "Miracle Minute" campaign to raise funds for Coon Rapids families in need. Collection bags were placed in every classroom. Louie Armstrong's "It's a Wonderful World" was played to encourage students and staff to donate. Funds collected during the "Miracle Minute" campaign assisted seven families.
Students collected enough items (like toiletries, clothing and personal hygiene supplies) to fill six shoeboxes for the St. Joseph's Home for Children. Items were either donated or purchased using funds students collected from the school's "Pictures with Santa" activity. The items helped to make children's stay at the home more comfortable, said Bonnie Hermann, Coon Rapids High School English teacher.
For the fifth year in a row, the Coon Rapids student council adopted a family for the holidays. This year the council and their families donated items on the adopted family's wish list. Gifts included a DVD player along with DVDs, clothes, toiletries, games, shoes and towels.
27. Franklin Elementary School participates in "Mitten Tree" and food drives; seeks public donations for "Drop Your Socks" drive
The Franklin Elementary School Kiwanis Kids Club (K-Kids) sponsored a school-wide mitten collection during the first two weeks in November. A total of 117 winter clothing items and sets were collected during the annual "Mitten Tree" drive and distributed to local families and organizations.
The K-Kids also sponsored the school's annual food drive in November and December, in which almost 600 items were collected. Franklin's collection was donated to the Anoka Christmas Committee to distribute to local families in need. In addition, the K-Kids also adopted a family over the holidays.
In other Franklin news, the K-Kids will once again sponsor the school's annual "Drop Your Socks" drive this month. Donations from the public are welcomed and appreciated.
The new socks will be donated to the St. Cloud Veteran's Hospital during the National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans. Contact Tricia Josephs, community schools programmer, at 763-506-2612 to donate your sock collection or for more information.
28. Hamilton Elementary School provide holiday boxes to families in need
Hamilton Elementary School provided 27 families with "holiday boxes" this past holiday season.
Each box is $35 and many classrooms and staff pool together to purchase one. Some teachers ask their students to earn money by doing chores around the house. The boxes are filled with food, canned goods and treats. The school also tries to include books, family games and puzzles or socks and gloves, depending on the family's needs, said Diane Merritt, Hamilton principal.
"I am pretty proud of what Hamilton does at this time of the year," said Merritt. "I go into classrooms and students tell me what they did around the house to earn the money. We have a great school with many giving people!"
The school also collected gently used clothing for the families, collected toys for the "Toys for Joy" program and collected canned goods for a local food shelf.
29. Johnsville Elementary School students "Slip Into Giving" with food drive and Adopt a Family program
Johnsville Elementary School collected $550 in the school's "Slip Into Giving" event in which students donate $1 to wear slippers to school. The money was used to purchase Target gift cards and donated to six families in need to purchase gifts for their children. The school has a similar event in the fall called "Caps for Kids," in which students donate $1 to wear a hat to school. Proceeds are donated to Caps for Kids, which is an international nonprofit organization that provides athlete- and celebrity-signed caps to pediatric cancer patients in hopes of raising their spirits.
Johnsville students and families also collected enough food items in the school's November food drive (spearheaded by Johnsville fourth graders) to donate to Anoka County and start their own school food shelf. The collection provided several Johnsville families with groceries over the winter break. Students and families also adopted 10 families in need and shopped for gifts from the families' wish lists.
30. McKinley Elementary School collects items for food drive
McKinley Elementary School first graders organized a food drive in December which collected 2,100 items. The collection was donated to the Anoka County Food Bank for Anoka County families in need.
31. Roosevelt Middle School collects "Oodles of Noodles" in food drive
Roosevelt Middle School completed its annual food drive in December, which was sponsored by the Roosevelt student council. This year's theme was "Oodles of Noodles." Students and staff collected enough food to fill seven wooden pallets to a height of six feet.
Denise Fennick's Pathways/homeroom collected the most items. Her Pathways students, along with student council members, helped sort the food items at the Anoka Armory on Dec. 17. Items were distributed to families in need on Dec. 19.
The school's collection was donated to the Anoka County Christmas Committee, which provided food for nearly 1,700 families in southern Anoka County during this past holiday season.
32. Wilson Elementary School donates to Heifer International
Wilson Elementary School Kiwanis Kids sold fun holiday novelties during the Wilson holiday festival on Dec. 6. Proceeds from the sales were donated to Heifer International, an organization that purchases a variety of farm animals for families in need around the world. The K-Kids collected enough money to purchase a flock of chicks and a "share" of a pig.
For 60 years, Heifer International has helped families develop a value-based community development model that includes gifts of animals and training.
For more information on the organization, visit www.heifer.org. |
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Backpack Online #15 - High and middle school registration guides now available to download, annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students and Blaine High School students elected to state HOSA positions. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Informational meetings on kindergarten registration tonight, deadline to apply for program options Jan. 12
2. International Baccalaureate information meeting Wednesday
3. Early Childhood Family Education open houses Jan. 11 and 12
4. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, will include STEM Summit
5. Early Childhood Family Education annual gently used book and video swap Jan. 12
Question of the Week
6. Why does the district provide a "Cadillac" level of transportation service for special education students and those in programs for expelled students?
7. Busses with low numbers of students at Blaine High School
General News and Events:
8. In-district and open enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
9. Specialty school enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
10. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
11. High school and middle school registration guides now available to download
12. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students
13. Meth task force aims to prevent drug use
Elementary School News and Events:
14. Washington Elementary School fourth grade classroom finalist in "Wild About Reading" contest
Middle School News and Events:
15. Sandburg Middle School student expo night Jan. 17
High School News and Events:
16. Blaine High School jazz band concert Jan. 15
17. Blaine High School madrigal dinner a success
18. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
19. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
20. High school career centers open to the public (link)
21. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students (updated)
22. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
23. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
24. Blaine High School students elected to state HOSA positions
Community Education News and Events:
25. Non-school day outing for students in grades two through five Jan. 28
26. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
27. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
28. Andover Elementary School participates in multiple holiday drives
29. Blaine High School students participate in blood drive
30. Food drive at Jackson Middle School a success
31. Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts participates in Adopt a Family program
32. Northdale Middle School participates in food drive
33. Park View Early Childhood Center participate in hat and mitten tree drive
Upcoming Events:
1. Informational meetings on kindergarten registration tonight, deadline to apply for program options Jan. 12
The Anoka-Hennepin School District offers several choices of kindergarten programs. The all-day, every other day kindergarten program is available to everyone at no cost. Other programs like Kindergarten Extra are offered for a fee.
Parent informational meetings are scheduled for tonight from 6 to 7 p.m. or 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. - two blocks north of Hwy. 10 on Ferry Street in Anoka.
Kindergarten Extra is available to any Anoka-Hennepin families with incoming kindergarten students (for a fee) and will be offered at the following sites:
* Andover Elementary School
* Crooked Lake Elementary School
* Eisenhower Elementary School
* Johnsville Elementary School
* Morris Bye Elementary School
* Park View Early Childhood Center
* Peter Enich Kindergarten Center
* Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science
* Rum River Elementary School
The Kindergarten Options brochure and application was mailed to families in the district the week of Dec. 10. Both items are also available to download on the Anoka-Hennepin Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Kindergarten Information" folder. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 12.
Call the Kindergarten Hotline at 763-506-3925 for more information.
2. International Baccalaureate information meeting Wednesday
District students and parents interested in participating in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, available at Champlin Park High School, are invited to attend an informational meeting Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the school's South Lecture Hall.
IB is an internationally recognized college preparation program for juniors and seniors. Information about both the full IB Diploma program (six IB courses plus additional requirements) and IB Certificate Scholar Program (three or more IB courses) will be presented, followed by a question/answer period. IB is open to all Champlin Park students and limited openings are available to students in other areas of the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Current-10th grade honors students who are interested in enrolling in three or more honors courses or the full IB Diploma Program are encouraged to attend one of these meetings.
Additional information about IB courses and the IB Diploma Program for 11th and 12th graders as well as the IB application can be found on the Champlin Park High School Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/cphs and click on the International Baccalaureate link at the top of the page.
Applications to transfer from an Anoka-Hennepin high school to Champlin Park as a full IB Diploma Candidate are due Tuesday, Jan. 15. In-district transfer forms are available to download on the district Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder.
3. Early Childhood Family Education open houses Jan. 11 and 12
Jump Into January by attending an Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) open house on Friday, Jan. 11 and Saturday, Jan. 12. Parents and children (birth up to kindergarten) will participate in fun activities, meet ECFE staff, see the classrooms and drop off class registrations.
There is no cost or registration required to attend this event. The entire family is welcome! For more information, call 763-506-1275 or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ecfe.
ECFE OPEN HOUSE DATES, TIMES AND LOCATIONS
Friday, Jan. 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at:
Andover Family Place
Crosstown Square
13632 Crosstown Blvd.
763-767-3520
Champlin Family Place
Champlin Plaza
12443 Champlin Drive in Champlin
763-433-4550
Saturday, Jan. 12 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at:
Anoka Family Place
Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center (room 117)
2740 Wingfield Ave. in Anoka
763-506-1540
Blaine Family Place
1430 131st Ave. N.E. in Blaine
763-506-2460
Coon Rapids Family Place
Family Center Mall (enter door A)
11254 Crooked Lake Blvd. in Coon Rapids
763-433-4650
4. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, will include STEM Summit
The public is invited to attend the Anoka-Hennepin School District's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair on Saturday, Jan. 12 at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. N.E., in Blaine. The fair is the largest in the state with more than 1,000 participants, and is open to all K-12 students.
The fair features research/inquiry projects in any of the STEM disciplines, and district students of all ages participate. Public viewing of grade 6 through 12 projects is from 8 to 9 a.m., with judging from 9 to 11:15 a.m. and awards at 11:45 a.m. Elementary projects can be viewed from 1 to 1:30 p.m. Students will explain projects to coaches from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., and recognition will be at 2:45 p.m.
This year's fair will also include the STEM Summit, which will feature 15 to 20 schools and business, in the school's cafeteria from 9 a.m. to noon. The Summit will feature information and interactive exhibits about STEM-related college programs and careers. The STEM Summit at BHS is one of eight regional summits that will take place in Minnesota in January and February, and the only one in the metro.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/stemfair or contact Kevin Molohon at 763-506-7084 or at: Kevin.Molohon@anoka.k12.mn.us.
5. Early Childhood Family Education annual gently used book and video swap Jan. 12
Attention parents! Bring your young children's gently used books, CDs, videos and DVDs to exchange for different items in the Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program's annual used book and video swap, co-sponsored by ECFE, Anoka-Hennepin Community Schools and Minnesota Extension, on Saturday, Jan. 12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Bunker Hills Activity Center.
Items can be dropped off on Friday, Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon and Saturday, Jan. 12 from 9 to 10 a.m. The event will also feature a storyteller and other activities for children from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
For more information, call 763-506-4012. Bunker Hills Activity Center is located at 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. in Andover.
Question of the Week:
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
(6) Question: Why does the district provide a "Cadillac" level of transportation service for special education students and those in programs for expelled students?
Response: Less than a third of special education students receive special transportation; most ride a regular school bus or walk to school. The specific type of transportation service provided for a special education student is determined by the student's Individual Education Plan team to meet the specific needs of the student. The state and federal governments require school districts to provide transportation service for students with disabilities (MN Statute 125A.03 subd.a) and the same statute requires the district to provide for students who are expelled from school. Transportation for students that require transportation due to a disability is not optional and it does not follow the same limitations that regulate regular student transportation (transportation must be provided for students living two miles or more from school). The definition of disabilities is set at the federal level in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and is not determined by individual school districts in Minnesota or by any state.
(7) Question: The other day I took my son to Blaine High School and I saw three buses with only one to two students riding them. How can we justify paying a driver and gas for the bus if only two students ride it?
Response: Anoka-Hennepin's transportation department typically routes busses to have about 50 students. However, there are some circumstances in which there are fewer students on a particular route. For example, there are some large special needs buses with wheelchair lifts that service Blaine High School. These buses may not have many students on board, due to the low number of students who require a wheelchair lift. There are also some cases where students are transported to Blaine High School and then shuttled to non-public schools. Buses may have only a few students at certain points during this process.
Blaine High School is also a specialty school in the North West Suburban Integration School District (NWSISD). NWSISD is a collaborative effort of seven school districts formed to meet the requirements of the Minnesota Desegregation Rule. NWSISD provides transportation for students who attend a NWSISD specialty school in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Blaine High School may have busses coming from other school districts with low numbers of students.
General News and Events:
8. In-district and open enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
To attend a different school (other than the attendance area school), the parent or guardian of an Anoka-Hennepin student can apply for one of two options: an in-district transfer to a school within the Anoka-Hennepin School District or open enrollment to another school district.
The in-district transfer option is for a student who resides in the Anoka-Hennepin school district and want to transfer to a different Anoka-Hennepin school from his or her regularly assigned school.
For example, if a Blaine High School student wants to attend Coon Rapids High School, the parent or guardian must request an in-district transfer.
The open enrollment option allows a student to attend a school district outside his or her home school district. Open enrollment is a commitment to another school district, not necessarily the choice of school in that district. Through the open enrollment option, a student leaves the Anoka-Hennepin School District for another district.
For example, a student at Osseo Junior High School, which is in the Osseo School District, could request open enrollment to attend Jackson Middle School in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Enrollment forms for open enrollment and in-district transfer are now available to download on the Anoka-Hennepin Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 15.
9. Specialty school enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
Families in the Anoka-Hennepin School District have educational choices. The "Choices for Your Child" brochure has been distributed to every family in the district with children eligible to attend a specialty school. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Specialty Schools Document Center" folder to download a copy.
Remaining open house dates for specialty school programs are as follows:
• Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP): Thursday, Jan. 10 from 3 to 8 p.m. STEP is on the campus of Anoka Technical College, 1353 Highway 10 in Anoka, 763-433-4000.
Application and other important information:
Applications for Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School - An IB Primary Years Programme, Monroe Elementary School - Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering, Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts and Blaine High School - Center for Engineering, Mathematics and Science are due Jan. 15. The application is submitted through the Northwest Suburban Integration School District. Click here to download the application: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31193&catfilter=11714.
Applications for Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts, Riverview Math and Environmental Science and Jackson Science and Math Teams are due Jan. 15. Click here to download the application: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31194&catfilter=11714
Students enroll in STEP and the Champlin Park International Baccalaureate Program through the regular high school registration process. Students who do not live in the Champlin Park attendance area and wish to participate in IB must apply for in-district transfer. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder to download the form. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 15.
Download individual specialty school brochures in the district's Specialty School document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&catfilter=11714#showDoc.
10. Tonic Sol-Fa in concert Feb. 22 at Coon Rapids High School
The Coon Rapids High School student council will host the a cappella group Tonic Sol-Fa in a fundraiser concert Friday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Coon Rapids High School auditorium. Tonic Sol-Fa has been named one of the top five "must see" groups in America by Campus Activities Today Magazine, has won numerous original song and album awards and was nominated multiple times for the prestigious "Entertainer of the Year" award by the National Association of Campus Activities.
Tickets are on sale now for $15. For advanced tickets, contact Bonnie Hermann at 763-506-7191 or at: Bonnie.Hermann@anoka.k12.mn.us. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event. For more information call Coon Rapids High School at 763-506-7100. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. in Coon Rapids.
11. High school and middle school registration guides now available to download
In the next few months, students will begin registering for middle and high school courses. Detailed registration guides will be distributed to students this month and are now posted online on the district Web site for parents and students who want to get a head start on school planning. Schools may also distribute detailed information tailored for their students. Questions on registration should be directed to your child's school.
Click on the following link to download the middle school registration guide:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31737&catfilter=11776.
Click on the following link to download the high school registration guide:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=32028&catfilter=11776.
12. Annual district writing contest seeks entries from Anoka-Hennepin students
Happiness and sadness, surprise and anger are familiar emotions to many, yet few can capture them in words. The 2008 Writing Contest for Anoka-Hennepin School District students encourages students in first through fifth grades to do just that.
The contest information flier asks students to think of a time when something happened in their lives that created a strong feeling and write about it, describing smells, sounds, actions and people around them to help the reader see the experience for themselves.
Judges are looking for an imaginative title, organized beginning, middle and ending, interesting details or dialogue, correct spelling and punctuation and originality.
Stories are limited to 500 words and will be judged in four categories: first and second grade, third grade, fourth grade and fifth grade. Cash prizes will be awarded in each category, including first through third places and up to three honorable mentions.
The contest is open to students who live in or attend school in Anoka-Hennepin. Entries are due by March 11 (postmarked by March 7) and may be sent to Creative Writing Contest, c/o McKinley Elementary School, 1740 Constance Blvd., Ham Lake, MN 55304-6797.
The contest is co-sponsored by the Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the Anoka-Hennepin Education Foundation.
13. Meth task force aims to prevent drug use
In an effort to prevent young people from using methamphetamine, the Anoka County Meth Task Force presented Look Smart, Don't Start at Oak View Middle School in November.
"Surveys show Anoka County has a higher percentage of high school seniors trying meth than the state average. We want to see the number go down," Anoka County Commissioner Scott LeDoux told the crowd of more than 400. He asked students to take the meth prevention message seriously.
Keynote speaker Michael George provided startling information about meth, the ease with which drugs can be obtained and used by young people, and meth's ability to cause instant addiction in many individuals. He compared it to the awareness gained in trying a new food. Most people know immediately if they want to try that food again or not. In the case of meth, individuals are gambling with the unknown, potential urge to begin a steady diet of meth, causing disastrous results for users, their families and communities.
According to George, students do not usually begin drug use with meth. Students typically engage first in "gateway" drugs such as tobacco and alcohol, making risky choices and gaining unhealthy skills that support other drug use.
For these reasons adults need to take the casual use of drugs like tobacco and alcohol, more seriously, according to Karen Dahl, Anoka-Hennepin prevention program trainer.
Follow up activities are planned for all students at Oak View and neighboring Roosevelt Middle School in Blaine.
The Anoka County Meth Task Force is a group of concerned county officials, community leaders, and professionals in law enforcement, education, health care, and human services. This was the second year the task force has presented an awareness program for the community. Several community partners contributed to this year's Look Smart. Don't Start presentation, including Anoka-Hennepin Community Education, Mercy and Unity Hospitals, Target, Dr. Donald Blakeslee, D.D.S., Anoka County Children and Family Council, and Rensch, Becker, Carlson and Ackerman, D.D.S. For more information about the Anoka County Meth Task Force, call 763-422-6970.
Elementary School News and Events:
14. Washington Elementary School fourth grade classroom finalist in "Wild About Reading" contest
Jennifer Myer's fourth grade classroom at Washington Elementary School is wild about reading. The class was recently named as one of 12 finalists in the Minnesota Wild hockey team's Wild About Reading" contest.
The contest, presented by Innovative Office Solutions, was created in an effort to promote the importance of reading to students in kindergarten through grade six and to give students an incentive to read outside the classroom. Participating classrooms have to create a cheer that incorporates their love for reading, school, hockey, and of course, the Wild. The 12 finalists' cheers are posted online for public voting.
Listed below is Myer's classroom cheer:
Reading is wild! Reading is cool.
You can read anywhere, not just at school!
If you can read, you can write, and that will make you very bright!
So pick up a book and take a look, see what you can find,
reading the pages cover-to-cover will surely enrich your mind!
Take your shot! Set a goal! Reading is good for your soul!
Reading is wild for every child, so do a good deed… and help someone learn to read!
The public can vote for their favorite cheer at:
http://wild.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NHLPage&id=19901. Myer's classroom cheer is cheer number 12. Voting ends on Tuesday, Jan. 15.
Middle School News and Events:
15. Sandburg Middle School student expo night Jan. 17
The public is invited to attend Sandburg Middle School's annual student expo night on Thursday, Jan. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will feature student projects and demonstrations. The closing ceremony is at 7:30 p.m. in the large gymnasium.
Carpooling with neighbors and friends is recommended, due to limited parking near the school. Sandburg Middle School is located at 1902 Second Ave. S., in Anoka.
High School News and Events:
16. Blaine High School jazz band concert Jan. 15
The public is invited to Blaine High School on Tuesday, Jan. 15 for an evening of jazz music. The event will feature the school's Jazz I and II ensembles and JazzMN, a professional jazz band, beginning at 7 p.m.
Advance tickets are available to purchase at $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors by contacting Shawn Kolles at 763-506-6677 by Jan. 14. Tickets are also available at the door the night of the event for $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
17. Blaine High School madrigal dinner a success
The halls of Blaine High School were transformed into "Blaine Manor" during the last week of November for the school's 11th annual madrigal dinner. This year's performance told the story of Lance and his efforts in trying to woo a princess by becoming rich and famous. His plan is to steal the crown to get money to take the princess on a date. Lance's plans go awry when the princess falls for his sauve sidekick, Pierre.
Students sang and acted in three performances while participants dined on a five-course meal. The play was written by student Jaimie Clifford and directed by music teacher Missy Moore and featured the following holiday songs: "Deck the Hall," "Glouchestershire Wassail," "A Hymn to the Virgin," "The Holly and the Ivy," "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" and "Silent Night." The cast was lead by the Blaine chamber choir.
Click on the following link to view a photo of this event in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19234.
18. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
19. Free practice ACT sessions offered this spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
20. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
21. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers.
FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS - PRESENTED BY FOCUS FINANCIAL
The following sessions are presented by Mike Branch of Focus Financial. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
• Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Champlin Park High School
• Jan. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Coon Rapids High School (time updated)
• Jan. 15 from 7 to 9 p.m.
FINANCIAL AID - PRESENTED BY COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Listed below are two workshops from Anoka-Hennepin's Community Education Program on college planning and scholarships. Don't miss these valuable learning opportunities!
HOW TO GET INTO AND PAY FOR COLLEGE
College costs are escalating rapidly. Having the right knowledge and planning skills are critical to avoiding mistakes. Participants will learn how to select the right college and make your student more attractive to colleges. Financial topics include: reducing college costs, obtaining grants, minimizing debt and loans, myths about colleges and college aid and how FASFA and college aid work. Course material is appropriate for any family with children in high school or community college. Instructor Jay Renanav, Attorney and Financial consultant, has two children who have graduated from college and one currently in college. Class fee: $19 per family.
• Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka
• Visit Community Education online for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8163
WIN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
You don't have to be an academic superstar to win free college money. This popular course is taught by Jason Lum, a recent Harvard and UC Berkeley graduate, who won nearly $250,000 in scholarship money and worked in the Harvard admissions office. Participants will learn where to find unadvertised scholarship opportunities, how to complete scholarship forms, gather materials, and what works and doesn't work in competing for scholarship money. Class fee: $15.
• Thursday, Feb. 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka
• Visit Community Education online for complete details:
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7607
22. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: Mar. 27, 2008, at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
23. Upcoming career sessions, career and tour days for high school students
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Dentistry, Feb. 7
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
24. Blaine High School students elected to state HOSA positions
The following Blaine High School students were elected to Minnesota Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) state leadership positions at the Fall Delegate Assembly on Oct. 30:
Jacklynn Van Asch, state president
Derrick Throndsen, president-elect
Majida Redzic, vice president
Josh Mitchell, vice president
HOSA is a national student organization (with state affiliates) endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Science Technology Education Division of ACTE. HOSA's two-fold mission is to promote career opportunities in the health care industry and to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.
Students are elected to these positions through a rigorous process that includes an application, interview, references and a speech delivered to the assembly of approximately 300 students.
Community Education News and Events:
25. Non-school day outing for students in grades two through five Jan. 28
The Anoka-Hennepin Community Schools Program will be offering "Funday Monday" activities on Monday, Jan. 28 (which is a no-school day for K-12 students) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration fees range from $30 to $40 and include lunch. More details are available at: www.discovercommunityed.com.
• Grand Slam, open gym and swim - Drop off/Pick up site is Roosevelt Middle School in Blaine
• Minnesota Zoo - Drop off/Pick up sites are Franklin Elementary School in Anoka or Oxbow Creek Elementary School in Champlin
• Movie and bowling - Drop off/Pick up site is Coon Rapids Middle School
Register online at: www.discovercommunityed.com. Click on "Available Courses" and scroll down to "Youth Activities - Elementary School" and click on "District Wide Classes/Trips." The registration deadline is Friday, Jan. 18.
26. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
The Winter 2008 Adult Class Catalogs will be arriving in mailboxes this week. Don't miss out on the great learning opportunities awaiting you. The New Year offers a fresh start - a chance to shift focus and do things differently. Start 2008 with a great class (or two) and jazz up your life!
For a new pastime
Internet Selling Smart
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8145&catID=
Photography - Black and White
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7303&catID=
Watercolor Studio
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7306&catID=
Ballroom Dance Camp
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8168&catID=
Jewelry Making 101
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7416&catID=
For added flavor
Asian Cooking
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7352&catID=
Cooking with a French Accent
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8150&catID=
Czech Kolaches
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7350&catID=
Glorious Garlic
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7342&catID=
Russian Dinner
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8137&catID=
For a better nest
Floor to Wall - Tile it All
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7540&catID=
Decorating Dilemmas
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8134&catID=
Windows and Siding
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8133&catID=
Decluttering
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8139&catID=
Design with House Plants
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8171&catID=
For clarity and purpose
How Much Is Enough?
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8156&catID=
Chocolate, Broccoli and Life
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7728&catID=
Law of Attraction
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=8140&catID=
Make a Difference
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7490&catID=
To check out all of the available classes or to register, visit: http://www.discovercommunityed.com or call 763-506-5766 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Press one when prompted.
27. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
One of the scariest words to a parent: "math." Whether your child needs help with math, your job requires more math, you need to brush up for entering post-secondary education, or you need math skills to GET a job, contact Metro North Adult Basic Ed.
Metro North ABE offers free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation, English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship. Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: patrice.adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out
Anoka-Hennepin schools are involved in helping those in need a variety of ways this past holiday season. Many schools collected items for food shelves and organized volunteer activities after school. Encouraging and helping students to give to those in need promotes compassion, a core value of Anoka-Hennepin's Character Education program. Backpack Online will include examples from our schools each week throughout the next several issues.
Read more examples from schools in the A-H News section at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19121.
28. Andover Elementary School participates in multiple holiday drives
Andover Elementary School students, staff and families made the holiday season a little brighter for Anoka County families in need. The school participated in several activities, ranging from a school food drive to adopting a family:
Students at Andover Elementary participated in a food drive for Anoka County families in need during the week of Dec. 3 through 7. The school collected three large pallets of food and $526.62 in monetary donations.
Fifth grade students from Cheryl Kimball and Jennifer Mallet's classrooms set up a school store and with parent support, sold snack and school items. Students assisted with the counting of the money, advertising, figuring the profit, shopping and delivering of the teddy bears. Students collected $400 and were able to purchase 80 stuffed teddy bears to donate to children who were patients at Mercy and Unity hospitals over the holidays.
Robert Barnette's fourth grade class collected more than 30 toys during their "Toys for Tots" drive. The toys were dropped off at a designated "Toys for Tots" site in Andover.
Gail Fessler's social skills class made 12 polar fleece blankets for Romanian infants and toddlers that live in a clinic for undernourished, abandoned and disabled children. Many of these children have to stay at the clinic for at least a year. ESL teacher Kristin Weidlein, who is volunteering at the clinic this summer, will deliver the blankets.
Jon Olson's third grade class collected $125 to give gifts and supplies to two needy families in Brazil through the World Vision organization. The students had to do chores above their regular duty to earn money to be donated anonymously.
Andover Adventures Plus students and staff adopted three families for the holidays and collected more than 20 boxes of gifts for the families. They also mailed 12 boxes of gifts and cards to military personnel stationed in Iraq in early December.
Several Andover staff members sponsored families by giving gifts and clothing and rang bells for the Salvation Army at Festival Foods in Andover.
29. Blaine High School students participate in blood drive
Blaine High School collected 137 units of blood in the school's blood drive on Dec. 7. The drive was sponsored by the Blaine High School Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) in conjunction with the American Red Cross. HOSA students assisted during the donation and recovery process and provided snacks to donors.
30. Food drive at Jackson Middle School a success
Jackson Middle School students demonstrated their community spirit during November by donating 3,300 food items in the school's annual food drive. The school's collection was then donated to the CROSS Food Drive, which distributes items to people in need.
The drive was organized by Jackson's "Star Serve" club, which consists of approximately 70 students. In addition to the food drive, Star Serve is involved in the community and school through participation in such drives as Toys for Tots, Change for Kids, Feed My Starving Children and many other charitable events. The club also promotes school spirit by sponsoring school dances, school pride events and selling school spirit merchandise and clothing. Advisors are teachers Tanya Buchholz, Aimee Halverson and Susan Hargroder.
31. Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts participates in Adopt-a-Family program
Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts students carried on a school tradition by participating in the Anoka County "Adopt a Family" program last month. Students collect $400 to purchased gifts for families in need.
"With more than half of money pennies and nickels, it was really a school wide effort," said John Horton, fifth grade teacher at Lincoln.
Lincoln's fifth grade students then made a trip to Target in Coon Rapids to shop for their family. Students learned to spend money wisely by looking for deals and comparing items they wanted to buy said Horton. Students bought a lot of clothes for the family including shirts, pants, and outerwear. According to the students the best thing to shop for were toys.
After the shopping trip, students wrapped presents and had a pizza party.
32. Northdale Middle School participates in food drive
Northdale Middle School students collected three pallets worth of food items in the school's annual food drive in December. Students also collected $500 by selling stars for $0.25 to assist a Northdale family in need. In the past two years, the school has raised almost $2,000 through its star drive.
33. Park View Early Childhood Center participate in hat and mitten tree drive
Park View Early Childhood Center kindergarten students practiced "compassion in action" this holiday season by collecting more than 300 hats, mittens and scarves for the school's hat and mitten tree. The school's collection was donated to the Anoka County Brotherhood Store to share with those in need.
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Backpack Online #14 - Rumor Alert, Tentative agreement with teachers reached and Northdale Middle School students use skills to adapt toys. |
Upcoming Events:
1. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
2. Community Education Project Power Merry Music Makers concert Dec. 19
3. Roosevelt Middle School Winter Book Fair Dec. 18 through 21, open to district families
Rumor Alert!
4. Rumor of district losing state funding if teacher's contract is not settled
Question of the Week
5. Kindergarten funding
General News and Events:
6. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline extended to Jan. 2
7. International Baccalaureate information meetings Jan. 7 and 9
8. Information meetings on kindergarten registration Jan 8, deadline to apply for program options Jan. 12
9. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
10. In-district and open enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
11. Specialty school enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
12. Tentative agreement with teachers reached
13. Frequently Asked Questions regarding winter weather and schools
14. Stay healthy this winter - hand washing tips
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Local Lions provide free books for McKinley Elementary School students
Middle School News and Events:
16. Northdale Middle School students use skills to adapt toys
High School News and Events:
17. Upcoming high school theater productions
18. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
19. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
20. High school career centers open to the public (link)
21. High school career centers offer career days and tours
22. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
23. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students (updated)
24. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
25. Champlin Park High School student elected as state FCCLA-HERO officer
Community Education News and Events:
26. Early Childhood Family Education open houses Jan. 11 and 12
27. Early Childhood Family Education annual gently used book and video swap Jan. 12
28. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
29. What's New from Early Childhood Family Education
30. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
31. Andover Elementary School collects items for food drive
32. Coon Rapids Middle School save 50 acres of rainforest land
33. McKinley Elementary School provide Thanksgiving meals for local families
34. Oxbow Creek Elementary School to participate in food drive relay with Champlin Park High School
35. Washington Elementary School collect winter wear and food items for holiday drives
Upcoming Events:
1. Roosevelt Middle School Winter Book Fair Dec. 18 through 21, open to district families
All Anoka-Hennepin students and their families are invited to attend the Roosevelt Middle School Winter Book Fair in the school's media center from Tuesday, Dec. 18 through Friday, Dec. 21. There will be books for all ages along with posters, pens and other fun school supplies. It's a great chance to pick up some last minute holiday gifts or to stock up on books for your home library.
The fair will be open on the following dates and times:
Tuesday, Dec. 18 from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 19 from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 20 from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 21 from 8 a.m. to noon
Contact Robbyn Riviere, Roosevelt media generalist, at 763-506-5805 for more information. Roosevelt Middle School is located at 650 125th Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
2. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
The following event is co-sponsored by Blaine High School and endorsed by Anoka-Hennepin orchestra teachers. Anoka-Hennepin families and community members are encouraged to attend this free event.
The public is invited to attend a free holiday community concert by the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. at Blaine High School.
The orchestra, conducted by Mark Russell Smith, will perform the following musical pieces:
"Brandenburg Concerto No. 3" (Bach)
"Dumbarton Oaks" (Stravinsky)
"Air" (Bach)
"Christmas Concerto" (Corelli)
"Winter" from The Four Seasons (Vivaldi)
"Emperor Waltz" (Strauss, arr. Schoenberg)
Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Call 651-291-1144 or visit: www.thespco.org to make reservations. The Blaine High School auditorium has approximately 900 seats, so make reservations as soon as possible.
Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
3. Community Education Project Power Merry Music Makers concert Dec. 19
The public is invited to attend the Merry Music Makers annual holiday concert on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. inside the front of Best Buy in the Northtown Mall in Blaine.
Merry Music Makers is part of Community Education's Project Power program. This year marks the 22nd year of the group. Many of the Merry Music Makers members have been involved since the group's first year. Members meet over the course of 10 weeks to prepare for the concert.
For more information about the Merry Music Makers concert or Community Education Project Power Programs, contact Sue Hughes, Adults With Disabilities Program specialist, at 763-506-1279.
4. Rumor Alert!
Rumor: I heard that if the teachers contract is not done by Jan. 1 that the district loses $1 million dollars in state funding. Is this true?
The facts: Yes. The district would lose $25 per student in state funding, or approximately $1 million, if the contract is not settled by Jan. 15. The district and the teachers have now reached a tentative agreement. The teachers will vote on the agreement in early January. If they approve it, it will go to the School Board for approval on Jan. 14.
5. Question of the Week:
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
Question: It looks like the legislature has passed in their funding bill for $32.5 million over the next two years to partially fund all-day kindergarten. Will that lower the tuition cost that I will be paying next year for kindergarten extra? Right now it will be $270 per month.
Response: The state legislature passed a bill last spring to provide additional funding for kindergarten. Anoka-Hennepin received an additional $735,000 as a result. The new funds go into the General Fund, which pays for K-12 programs. The district's all-day kindergarten program is offered by the Community Education Department, which has a separate source of funding.
The district is using the additional dollars to expand the district's Kindergarten Intervention Program (KIP). KIP is an invitational program offered to kindergarten students who need additional academic or social support. It provides some additional days of school for students who qualify for the program, which focuses on academics, social and emotional skills and works to ensure that students will be successful.
General News and Events:
6. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline extended to Jan. 2
The Teacher Outstanding Performance Award program involves students, parents and community members in recognizing and rewarding outstanding teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
The award program is co-sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Each year, 20 teachers from throughout the district are selected as TOP teachers. Each winner will receive a grant that may be used to cover the costs of a special educational opportunity or to purchase educational materials or equipment. Four winners will also receive an additional $1,000 grant to fund a special project at their school plus $500 cash from the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Winners will be recognized at a ceremony in May.
All licensed preK-12 teachers employed in the Anoka-Hennepin School District are eligible for this award. Teachers who have already been named TOP award recipients are no longer eligible. Click on the following link to view the list of previous winners in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18490.
A student, parent or community member can nominate a teacher, one nomination per person. Click on the following link to download a nomination form on the district Web site: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=28389&catfilter=11704. The nomination deadline has been extended to Jan. 2.
Nomination and application forms will be reviewed by a panel of parents, students and educators who will choose the winners. Interviews will be conducted to determine winners of the four school project grants. Project grant winners will be announced at the award ceremony.
7. International Baccalaureate information meetings Jan. 7 and 9
District students and parents interested in participating in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Champlin Park High School are invited to attend an information meeting on Monday, Jan. 7, and Wednesday, Jan. 9, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the school's South Lecture Hall.
IB is an internationally recognized college preparation program for juniors and seniors. Information about both the full IB Diploma Program (six IB courses plus additional requirements) and IB Certificate Scholar Program (three or more IB courses) will be presented, followed by a question/answer period. IB is open to all Champlin Park students and limited openings are available to students in other areas of the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Current 10th-grade honors students who are interested in enrolling in three or more honors courses or the full IB Diploma Program are encouraged to attend one of these meetings.
Additional information about IB courses and the IB Diploma Program for 11th and 12th-graders as well as the IB application can be found on the Champlin Park High School Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/cphs and click on the International Baccalaureate link at the top of the page.
Applications to transfer from an Anoka-Hennepin high school to Champlin Park as a full IB Diploma Candidate are due Tuesday, Jan. 15. In-district transfer forms are available to download on the district Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder.
8. Informational meetings on kindergarten registration Jan 8, deadline to apply for program options Jan. 12
The Anoka-Hennepin School District offers several choices of kindergarten programs. The all-day, every other day kindergarten program is available to everyone at no cost. Other programs like Kindergarten Extra are offered for a fee.
Kindergarten Extra is available to any Anoka-Hennepin families with incoming kindergarten students (for a fee) and will be offered at the following sites:
* Andover Elementary School
* Crooked Lake Elementary School
* Eisenhower Elementary School
* Johnsville Elementary School
* Morris Bye Elementary School
* Park View Early Childhood Center
* Peter Enich Kindergarten Center
* Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science
* Rum River Elementary School
The Kindergarten Options brochure and application was mailed to families in the district the week of Dec. 10. Both items are also available to download on the Anoka-Hennepin Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Kindergarten Information" folder. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 12.
Parent information meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 8 from 6 to 7 p.m. or 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. - two blocks north of Hwy. 10 on Ferry Street in Anoka.
Call the Kindergarten Hotline at 763-506-3925 for more information.
9. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
Judges are needed for the Anoka-Hennepin School District's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair on Saturday, Jan. 12 at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. N.E., in Blaine. The fair is the largest in the state with more than 1,000 participants, and is open to all K-12 students. Organizers are seeking volunteers to judge projects and coach students.
You don't need to be a science expert to be a judge! Judges can register for the morning session, afternoon session or both. Judges for grades 6 through 12 projects check in at 7:45 a.m., attend a one-hour training session and then judge and complete scoring by 11:15 a.m. Judges for kindergarten through grade 5 check in and attend a half-hour training session from 1 to 1:30 p.m. and give feedback to students from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
To register as a judge, go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/stemfair. For more information, contact Kevin Molohon at 763-506-7084 or at: Kevin.Molohon@anoka.k12.mn.us.
10. In-district and open enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
To attend a different school (other than the attendance area school), the parent or guardian of an Anoka-Hennepin student can apply for one of two options: an in-district transfer to a school within the Anoka-Hennepin School District or open enrollment to another school district.
The in-district transfer option is for a student who resides in the Anoka-Hennepin school district and want to transfer to a different Anoka-Hennepin school from his or her regularly assigned school.
For example, if a Blaine High School student wants to attend Coon Rapids High School, the parent or guardian must request an in-district transfer.
The open enrollment option allows a student to attend a school district outside his or her home school district. Open enrollment is a commitment to another school district, not necessarily the choice of school in that district. Through the open enrollment option, a student leaves the Anoka-Hennepin School District for another district.
For example, a student at Osseo Junior High School, which is in the Osseo School District, would request open enrollment to attend Jackson Middle School in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Enrollment forms for open enrollment and in-district transfer are now available to download on the Anoka-Hennepin Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 15.
11. Specialty school enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
Families in the Anoka-Hennepin School District have educational choices. The "Choices for Your Child" brochure has been distributed to every family in the district with children eligible to attend a specialty school. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Specialty Schools Document Center" folder to download a copy.
Remaining open house dates for specialty school programs are as follows:
• Champlin Park High School - International Baccalaureate: Monday, Jan. 7 and Wednesday, Jan. 9 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the South Lecture Hall. Champlin Park is at 6025 109th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park, 763-506-6800
• Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP): Thursday, Jan. 10 from 3 to 8 p.m. STEP is on the campus of Anoka Technical College, 1353 Highway 10 in Anoka, 763-433-4000.
Application and other important information:
Applications for Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School - An IB Primary Years Programme, Monroe Elementary School - Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering, Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts and Blaine High School - Center for Engineering, Mathematics and Science are due Jan. 15. The application is submitted through the Northwest Suburban Integration School District. Click here to download the application: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31193&catfilter=11714.
Applications for Lincoln, Elementary School for the Arts, Riverview Math and Environmental Science and Jackson Science and Math Teams are due Jan. 15. Click here to download the application: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31194&catfilter=11714.
Students enroll in STEP and the Champlin Park International Baccalaureate Program through the regular high school registration process. Students who do not live in the Champlin Park attendance area and wish to participate in IB must apply for in-district transfer. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder to download the form. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 15, 2008.
Download individual specialty school brochures in the district's Specialty School document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&catfilter=11714#showDoc.
12. Tentative agreement with teachers reached
The Anoka-Hennepin School District reached a tentative agreement with teachers Dec. 10. The district had been bargaining on a two-year contract with Anoka-Hennepin Education Minnesota since last spring and worked with a state mediator over the last couple of months.
Leadership of the teachers' union informed the district they would recommend their members approve the agreement. The union will present details of the agreement to teachers next week and give teachers an opportunity to vote on the agreement Jan. 8 and 9.
If teachers ratify the agreement it will go to the School Board for approval Jan. 14, which is the first regularly scheduled meeting of the year.
"We are extremely pleased to have reached this agreement," said School Board Chair Michael Sullivan. "It met the board's goal of continuing to provide a competitive salary and benefits package for teachers while maintaining the promise we made to voters with our levy, maintaining the stability of our educational programs, and remaining fiscally responsible and good stewards of our tax dollars."
13. Frequently Asked Questions regarding winter weather and schools
How cold does it have to be to close school?
There is not a temperature at which the district automatically closes school. Typically, when Anoka-Hennepin has closed school, the conditions were snow and ice - conditions that kept buses from running. In 1994, then-Gov. Arne Carlson ordered schools closed due to extreme wind chill temperatures.
Why don't you close school when it is 25 below zero?
Even though that is very cold, typically businesses and government offices remain open, and most school districts in Minnesota, including all those in the metro area, remain open.
The decision to close school is a serious one, and it affects many working families who would have to take a day off of work or find day care on short notice. Some families do not have these options and their children may be left home alone. Often, children are more at risk when we close school. As the largest school district in Minnesota, with more than 240,000 residents and 41,000 students, many families and businesses are affected when Anoka-Hennepin closes its schools.
Extremely cold weather is not unheard of in Minnesota. Many times it gets very cold in the state while school still is in session. By dressing children properly, parents/guardians can protect against the effects of cold weather.
Tips on appropriate dress for cold weather:
• Wear several layers, the layer of air between each piece of clothing acts as extra insulation
• Wear clothing that insulates, shields and breathes. Wool and polypropylene are good insulators
• Outer layers should be wind and waterproof
• Wear wool socks and well-fitting waterproof boots
• Wear a hat to prevent heat loss
• In most cases, mittens are warmer than gloves
• In extreme cold, cover all areas of exposed skin
What if I am concerned about the weather and school is in session?
In cases of extreme winter weather, parents/guardians have the ultimate decision on whether to send their child to school. Parents can choose to keep their children home because of the weather, and their children will have an excused absence for the day.
Does the district lose money if school is closed?
No. The district does not lose state aid if school closes for weather or other emergencies.
Will elementary students be allowed outside for recess when it is 25 below zero?
No. The guideline for keeping children inside for recess will be zero degrees or 10 degrees below zero wind chill. Accommodations for children with special medical needs can be made with the Health Services office; written documentation from a doctor will be required.
Are student crossing guards allowed out in cold weather?
Yes. School staff check student-crossing guards to ensure that they have warm and proper clothing to be out in cold weather.
Be sure to view the Schools in Focus video segment on winter weather and school closings at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/sifstream. Click on the appropriate player link under the "Winter Weather and School Closings" heading.
14. Stay healthy this winter - hand washing tips
Stay healthy with tips on hand washing from Anoka-Hennepin's Health Services Department (reprinted with permission from Science News):
Do you know how best to rid your hands of microbes? It has long been thought that alcohol-based skin cleansers are effective for killing bacteria and viruses on the hands. They are favored by travelers since they are easy to carry in a pocket or handbag, and are known to kill a wide variety of common bacteria and viruses. However, Emery University researchers have found that while alcohol-based products are better than nothing, they do not rid the hands of Norwalk viruses (noroviruses), the notorious cause of cruise ship epidemics of diarrhea and vomiting.
In looking for the best anti-norovirus treatment, the researchers compared washing the hands with antibacterial soap, applying an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, or just washing them with ordinary soap before rinsing them thoroughly in running water. Washing with ordinary soap and lots of running water was, by far, most effective. It removed 96 percent of norovirus that had been applied to the hands. Washing with antibacterial soap and water removed only 88 percent of the virus, and the alcohol-based hand sanitizer removed only about half of it. Also, antibacterial soaps encourage development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and are environmentally unfriendly.
Soap removes oil from the skin, something that plain water does not do well. Possibly, many of us do not rinse our hands enough after soaping them and thereby do not remove all the soapy grime that harbors viruses and bacteria. Therefore, the best advice is to first wash your hands with soap and water and then rinse them thoroughly with a copious amount of running water several times a day, especially after shaking hands and touching doorknobs, etc. Also, don't rub your eyes or touch your lips, nose or face without washing your hands first. This should greatly increase your changes of remaining well this winter season.
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Local Lions provide free books for McKinley Elementary School students
Ham Lake and East Bethel Lions Clubs teamed up with the McKinley Parent Teacher Organization this year to ensure three free books for each of 850 McKinley Elementary students. Students received their first books of the year Nov. 14 and 15, each choosing from hundreds of titles.
For the past 27 years, McKinley has participated in the nationwide Reading is Fundamental (RIF) program, which provides free books to every student in participating schools. Until this year, the school received funding from the national program and matching funds from the McKinley Parent Teacher Organization. Federal funding cuts last year eliminated the funding source for the program.
Two local Lions clubs stepped up to fill the void, each contributing $500 to keep the program going. Book companies work with the RIF program to provide high-quality books at a reasonable cost.
Recent studies show that students are reading less, but the free books provided by RIF work against the trend by motivating students to read interesting and informative books. For children and families who do not have access to libraries, or the availability to own books, the RIF program makes sure that books are a part of their lives.
Future book distributions will be held in the winter and spring.
Middle School News and Events:
16. Northdale Middle School students use skills to adapt toys
Northdale Middle School eighth-graders have been working on a special project in their Power and Energy class.
"I feel good about this," said Nick, who was working to adapt a remote-control car. "My brother is special needs, he's deaf. So this makes me feel good to help kids like him."
The students adapted more than 60 toys from the early childhood program to allow them to be used by students with disabilities. They located the circuits and switches that make the toy giggle or squirm and rewired it to connect to an adapter. The adapter allows the toy to be plugged into a large button that the early childhood students can push to elicit the same reaction from a toy as a squeeze from another child.
Students worked on a variety of toys, from simple remote-control cars to the more complicated Tickle Me Elmo and Baby Big Bird. Elmo is more complicated because he has multiple switches in his chin, tummy and foot.
Industrial Technology teacher Kelly McQuay said the project is a natural choice for the class, and a money-saver for the district.
"[The district] could buy adapted toys, but it's more expensive," he said.
Early childhood teachers plan to take photos of the children using the toys so the Northdale students can see the results of their work. McQuay said the children learn about cause and effect from the toys, seeing the results of pressing the large red button.
Before students began working on the toys, they learned to create switches by making pop can flashlights and fans.
Click on the following link to view a photo of this project: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=19159.
High School News and Events:
17. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater fall productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Anoka High School
"Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"
Thursday, Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m.
Joseph explodes onto the Anoka stage in his dazzling coat of many colors. Retelling of the biblical story about Joseph, his uncanny abilities and his designer coat sings out to the young and old alike! Featuring a score of wall to wall hits including "Close Every Door," "Any Dream Will Do," and "Go, Go, Go Joseph!" Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a true family classic! Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. School matinées are available for this production.
Ticket prices are $10 for reserved and $8 for general admission balcony. Ticket prices for students and senior citizens are $5 for reserved and $4 for balcony. Call the ticket office at 763-5066439 between the hours of 3 and 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday, for more information.
Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
18. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
19. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
20. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
21. High school career centers offer career days and tours
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
22. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. They are presented by Mike Branch, Focus Financial. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Champlin Park High School
Jan. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Coon Rapids High School (time updated)
Jan. 15 from 7 to 9 p.m.
23. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
Local college fairs at Anoka-Hennepin high schools
Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: Mar. 27, at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Andover High School College Fair: Thursday, May 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Andover High School.
24. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
University of Minnesota "Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
Program Dates:
Dentistry, Feb. 7
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
25. Champlin Park High School student elected as state FCCLA-HERO officer
Katie Brumbaugh, student at Champlin Park High School, was recently elected as First Vice President to the Minnesota Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)-HERO board.
FCCLA-HERO is a career preparation youth organization which focuses on service occupations. Minnesota FCCLA-HERO was developed in 1971 under the name Minnesota Association of H.E.A.R.T. (Home Economics and Related Training.)
Community Education News and Events:
26. Early Childhood Family Education open houses Jan. 11 and 12
Jump Into January by attending an Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) open house on Friday, Jan. 11 and Saturday, Jan. 12. Parents and children (birth up to kindergarten) will participate in fun activities, meet ECFE staff, see the classrooms and drop off class registrations.
There is no cost or registration required to attend this event. The entire family is welcome! For more information, call 763-506-1275 or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ecfe.
ECFE OPEN HOUSE DATES, TIMES AND LOCATIONS
Friday, Jan. 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at:
Andover Family Place
Crosstown Square
13632 Crosstown Blvd. in Andover
763-767-3520
Champlin Family Place
Champlin Plaza
12443 Champlin Drive in Champlin
763-433-4550
Saturday, Jan. 12 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at:
Anoka Family Place
Anoka-Hennepin Learning Center (room 117)
2740 Wingfield Ave. in Anoka
763-506-1540
Blaine Family Place
1430 131st Ave. N.E. in Blaine
763-506-2460
Coon Rapids Family Place
Family Center Mall (enter door A)
11254 Crooked Lake Blvd. in Coon Rapids
763-433-4650
27. Early Childhood Family Education annual gently used book and video swap Jan. 12
Attention parents! Bring your young children's gently used books, CDs, videos and DVDs to exchange for different items in the Anoka-Hennepin Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program's annual used book and video swap, co-sponsored by ECFE, Anoka-Hennepin Community Schools and Minnesota Extension, on Saturday, Jan. 12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Bunker Hills Activity Center.
Items can be dropped off on Friday, Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon and Saturday, Jan. 12 from 9 to 10 a.m. The event will also feature a storyteller and other activities for children from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
For more information, call 763-506-4012. Bunker Hills Activity Center is located at 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. in Andover.
28. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
The winter 2008 adult class catalog will be sent to each home in the Anoka-Hennepin School District just before the first of January. Watch your mailbox for more than 200 great learning opportunities. Exciting and enriching classes are calling your name. Get in shape, explore your crafty side and discover new ways to manage your money. This catalog is full of learning opportunities for everyone!
If you would like a preview of winter classes, visit the Community Education Web site at: http://www.discovercommunityed.com. Winter courses will be available for viewing and registration after Dec. 17.
29. What's New from Early Childhood Family Education
The winter/spring 2008 Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) catalog will be mailed to Anoka-Hennepin residents in late December. Be sure to check out ECFE classes, playtimes, aquatics, family events, Community School activities and information on home visits, School Readiness Preschool and much more!
For more information on ECFE, call 763-506-1275 or visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ecfe. Catalogs are also available to download at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/ce. Click on the "Catalogs to Download" link in the left-hand index.
30. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
One of the scariest words to a parent: "math." Whether your child needs help with math, your job requires more math, you need to brush up for entering post-secondary education, or you need math skills to GET a job, contact Metro North Adult Basic Ed.
Metro North ABE offers free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation, English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship. Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: patrice.adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out
Anoka-Hennepin schools are involved in helping those in need a variety of ways this holiday season. Many schools are collecting items for food shelves and organizing volunteer activities after school. Encouraging and helping students to give to those in need promotes compassion, a core value of Anoka-Hennepin's Character Education program. Backpack Online will include examples from our schools each week throughout the next several issues.
31. Andover Elementary School collects items for food drive
Students at Andover Elementary participated in a food drive for Anoka County families in need during the week of Dec. 3 through 7. To make the event more interesting, we designated each day for different food items, said Dorothy Olsen, principal.
Monday, Dec. 3 was box day.
Tuesday, Dec. 4 was can day.
Wednesday, Dec. 5 was sack/bag day.
Thursday, Dec. 6 was plastic day
Friday, Dec. 7 was cash day.
The school collected three large pallets of food and $526.62 in monetary donations.
32. Coon Rapids Middle School save 50 acres of rainforest land
For more than 11 years, Coon Rapids Middle School students have been helping to save the rainforests of the world, one T-shirt at a time. Each year, Coon Rapids science students sell T-shirts as part of a science class project to raise money for rainforest preservation through the Earth Foundation. This year, funds went toward preserving land in the Osa peninsula of southwest Costa Rica.
Every 10 T-shirts sold saves one acre of rainforest. This fall, Coon Rapids Middle School students sold 500 shirts and saved 50 acres of rainforest land. In 2006, students saved approximately 40 acres. In 2005, the school saved 50.7 acres of land. Coon Rapids Middle School holds the distinction of being an Earth Foundation All-Star school for saving 20 or more acres each year for the past three or more years in a row.
33. McKinley Elementary School provide Thanksgiving meals for local families
McKinley Elementary School's third grade classrooms provided a full thanksgiving meal for a six families in the community last month. Each classroom is assigned a family and is given the total number of people in that family. The class then creates and plans a Thanksgiving meal, down to the butter and a flower centerpiece, said Mark VanVoorhis, principal.
After planning the meal, students write a nonperishable item or monetary amount on a turkey feather, which are then sent home. Families decide how many feathers they want and then send the items or money with their child.
On Monday, Nov. 19, Principal VanVoorhis took a representative from each third grade class and shopped for perishable items to complete the project.
34. Oxbow Creek Elementary School to participate in food drive relay with Champlin Park High School
Oxbow Creek Elementary School students collected a total of 6,321 items in the school's November food drive. The collection was donated to the Cross Food Shelf.
Joe Scheller's third grade classroom and Keith Rose's fifth grade classroom will participate in a fun relay race with Champlin Park High School athletes on Dec. 21 for collecting the most items in the drive. Scheller's classroom the most items (370) in grades one through three. Rose's classroom collected the most items (974) in grades four and five.
35. Washington Elementary School collect winter wear and food items for holiday drives
Washington Elementary School students helped to make local families' winter a bit warmer this past month. Through the school's annual "Mitten Tree" giving campaign, Washington students collected 256 new mittens, gloves, hats and scarves that were distributed to local families in need through the Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP). The campaign was spearheaded by Washington fifth graders.
In other news, the school collected approximately 1,000 items in its annual holiday food basket collection.
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Backpack Online #13 - International Baccalaureate information meetings, Schools In Focus video segments now available to stream online and district students participate in bullying essay and poster contest. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts present "A Fairy Tale from Mars" Dec. 10 through 12
2. Upcoming college planning session for high school students: Dec. 12 at Andover High School
3. International Baccalaureate information meetings Dec. 13, Jan. 7 and 9
Question of the Week
4. Are the AP courses in our district legitimate?
General News and Events:
5. Temporary service disruption for A-HConnect Dec. 14 and 15
6. Twin Cities Public Television presents "Change" Dec. 15
7. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
8. Roosevelt Middle School Winter Book Fair Dec. 18 through 21, open to district families
9. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline extended to Jan. 2
10. Informational meetings on kindergarten registration Jan 8, deadline to apply for program options Jan. 12
11. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
12. In-district and open enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
13. Specialty school enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
14. Schools In Focus video segments now available to stream online
15. District schools celebrate Veterans Day
Elementary School News and Events:
16. Lincoln Elementary School Partnership Action Team gains national recognition for parent involvement practices
17. L.O. Jacob Elementary School students participate in jazz music residency
High School News and Events:
18. Upcoming high school theater productions
19. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
20. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
21. High school career centers open to the public (link)
22. High school career centers offer career days and tours
23. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
25. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
26. Andover High School students selected to participate in American Choral Directors Association honor choirs
27. District students participate in bullying essay and poster contests
28. Minnesota State High School League fall state tournament update
Superintendent's Column
29. Thank you, thank you, thank you
Community Education News and Events:
30. Community Education Project Power Merry Music Makers concert Dec. 19
31. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
32. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
33. Coon Rapids Middle School collects more than 4,500 items in food drive
34. Jackson Middle School staff participate in annual "Giving Tree"
Upcoming Events:
1. Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts present "A Fairy Tale from Mars" Dec. 10 through 12
The public is invited to attend Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts' performance of "A Fairy Tale from Mars," Monday, Dec. 10, Tuesday, Dec. 11 and Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts. The play is about three little space pigs and the big bad weather wolf.
Tickets are free. Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S., in Anoka.
2. Upcoming college planning session for high school students: Dec. 12 at Andover High School
District parents and students are invited to attend a college planning presentation at Andover High School on Wednesday, Dec. 12 from 6 to 7 p.m. in the school's media center. Please R.S.V.P. to Katy Eliason at 763-506-8508 or by email: Kathryn.Eliason@anoka.k12.mn.us.
Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. N.W. in Andover.
3. International Baccalaureate information meetings Dec. 13, Jan. 7 and 9
District students and parents interested in participating in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, available at Champlin Park High School, are invited to attend an informational meeting on Thursday, Dec. 13 at 3:30, 6 and 7 p.m.; Monday, Jan. 7, and Wednesday, Jan. 9, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the school's South Lecture Hall.
IB is an internationally recognized college preparation program for juniors and seniors. Information about both the full IB Diploma program (six IB courses plus additional requirements) and IB Certificate Scholar Program (three or more IB courses) will be presented, followed by a question/answer period. IB is open to all Champlin Park students and limited openings are available to students in other areas of the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Current-10th grade honors students who are interested in enrolling in three or more honors courses or the full IB Diploma Program are encouraged to attend one of these meetings.
Additional information about IB courses and the IB Diploma Program for 11th and 12th graders as well as the IB application can be found on the Champlin Park High School Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/cphs and click on the International Baccalaureate link at the top of the page.
Applications to transfer from an Anoka-Hennepin high school to Champlin Park as a full IB Diploma Candidate are due Tuesday, Jan. 15. In-district transfer forms are available to download on the district Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder.
4. Question of the Week:
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
Question: I heard that a lot of high schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses that aren't rigorous or up to standard. Are the AP courses in our district legitimate?
Response: Yes. Anoka-Hennepin offers 13 different Advanced Placement courses. They are all authorized by College Board, the national body that sets standards for AP classes. You can check whether or not a school's AP courses are authorized by going to the AP Course Ledger on the College Board Web site at: https://apcourseaudit.epiconline.org/ledger/qsearch.php.
General News and Events:
5. Temporary service disruption for A-HConnect Dec. 14 and 15
A-HConnect will be unavailable from Friday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. to Saturday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. for scheduled maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience. Parents will not be able to access information about their children during this time (This includes items such as grade book information, schedules and lunch account balances).
If you are experiencing problems with A-HConnect, please call the A-HConnect helpline at 763-506-HELP (4357). For routine access issues, staff will contact you the next business day; if the problem affects the entire site, staff will be paged and work to resolve the issue immediately.
6. Twin Cities Public Television presents "Change" Dec. 15
The following event is endorsed by the Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program. Anoka-Hennepin families and community members are encouraged to view this program.
Twin Cities Public Television (TCPT, channel 17) will broadcast the television musical "Change" on Saturday, Dec. 15 at 10 p.m. Change is a musical about building and maintaining healthy, peaceful family relationships. As the holiday seasons approach, many families and individuals experience both great joy and great stress. Anoka-Hennepin's Parent Involvement Program encourages families to view this program.
"Change "was a project developed by the Initiative for Violence Free Families and Communities in Ramsey County and produced in conjunction with TCPT.
7. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
The following event is co-sponsored by Blaine High School and endorsed by Anoka-Hennepin orchestra teachers. Anoka-Hennepin families and community members are encouraged to attend this free event.
The public is invited to attend a free holiday community concert the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. at Blaine High School.
The orchestra, conducted by Mark Russell Smith, will perform the following musical pieces:
"Brandenburg Concerto No. 3" (Bach)
"Dumbarton Oaks" (Stravinsky)
"Air" (Bach)
"Christmas Concerto" (Corelli)
"Winter" from The Four Seasons (Vivaldi)
"Emperor Waltz" (Strauss, arr. Schoenberg)
Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Call 651-291-1144 or visit: www.thespco.org to make reservations. The Blaine High School auditorium has approximately 900 seats, so make reservations as soon as possible.
Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
8. Roosevelt Middle School Winter Book Fair Dec. 18 through 21, open to district families
All Anoka-Hennepin students and their families are invited to attend the Roosevelt Middle School Winter Book Fair in the school's media center from Tuesday, Dec. 18 through Friday, Dec. 21. There will be books for all ages along with posters, pens and other fun school supplies. It's a great chance to pick up some last minute holiday gifts or to stock up on books for your home library.
The fair will be open on the following dates and times:
Tuesday, Dec. 18 from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 19 from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 20 from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 21 from 8 a.m. to noon
Contact Robbyn Riviere, Roosevelt media generalist, at 763-506-5805 for more information. Roosevelt Middle School is located at 650 125th Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
9. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline extended to Jan. 2
The Teacher Outstanding Performance Award program involves students, parents and community members in recognizing and rewarding outstanding teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
The award program is co-sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Each year, 20 teachers from throughout the district are selected as TOP teachers. Each winner will receive a grant that may be used to cover the costs of a special educational opportunity or to purchase educational materials or equipment. Four winners will also receive an additional $1,000 grant to fund a special project at their school plus $500 cash from the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Winners will be recognized at a ceremony in May.
All licensed preK-12 teachers employed in the Anoka-Hennepin School District are eligible for this award. Teachers who have already been named TOP award recipients are no longer eligible. Click on the following link to view the list of previous winners in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18490
A student, parent or community member can nominate a teacher, one nomination per person. Click on the following link to download a nomination form on the district Web site: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=28389&catfilter=11704. The nomination deadline has been extended to Jan. 2.
Nomination and application forms will be reviewed by a panel of parents, students and educators who will choose the winners. Interviews will be conducted to determine winners of the four school project grants. Project grant winners will be announced at the award ceremony.
10. Informational meetings on kindergarten registration Jan 8, deadline to apply for program options Jan. 12
The Anoka-Hennepin School District offers several choices of kindergarten programs. The all-day, every other day kindergarten program is available to everyone at no cost. Other programs like Kindergarten Extra are offered for a fee.
Kindergarten Extra is available to any Anoka-Hennepin families with incoming kindergarten students (for a fee) and will be offered at the following sites:
* Andover Elementary School
* Crooked Lake Elementary School
* Eisenhower Elementary School
* Johnsville Elementary School
* Morris Bye Elementary School
* Park View Early Childhood Center
* Peter Enich Kindergarten Center
* Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science
* Rum River Elementary School
The Kindergarten Options brochure and application will be mailed to families in the district the week of Dec. 10. Both items are also available to download on the Anoka-Hennepin Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Kindergarten Information" folder. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 12.
Parent informational meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 8 from 6 to 7 p.m. or 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. - two blocks north of Hwy. 10 on Ferry Street in Anoka.
Call the Kindergarten Hotline at 763-506-3925 for more information.
11. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
Judges are needed for the Anoka-Hennepin School District's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair on Saturday, Jan. 12 at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. N.E., in Blaine. The fair is the largest in the state with more than 1,000 participants, and is open to all K-12 students. Organizers are seeking volunteers to judge projects and coach students.
You don't need to be a science expert to be a judge! Judges can register for the morning session, afternoon session or both. Judges for grades 6 through 12 projects check in at 7:45 a.m., attend a one-hour training session and then judge and complete scoring by 11:15 a.m. Judges for kindergarten through grade 5 check in and attend a half-hour training session from 1 to 1:30 p.m. and give feedback to students from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
To register as a judge, go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/stemfair. For more information, contact Kevin Molohon at 763-506-7084 or at: Kevin.Molohon@anoka.k12.mn.us.
12. In-district and open enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
To attend a different school (other than the attendance area school), the parent or guardian of an Anoka-Hennepin student can apply for one of two options: an in-district transfer to a school within the Anoka-Hennepin School District or open enrollment to another school district.
The in-district transfer option is for a student who resides in the Anoka-Hennepin school district and want to transfer to a different Anoka-Hennepin school from his or her regularly assigned school.
For example, if a Blaine High School student wants to attend Coon Rapids High School, the parent or guardian must request an in-district transfer.
The open enrollment option allows a student to attend a school district outside his or her home school district. Open enrollment is a commitment to another school district, not necessarily the choice of school in that district. Through the open enrollment option, a student leaves the Anoka-Hennepin School District for another district.
For example, a student at Osseo Junior High School, which is in the Osseo School District, would request open enrollment to attend Jackson Middle School in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Enrollment forms for open enrollment and in-district transfer are now available to download on the Anoka-Hennepin Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 15.
13. Specialty school enrollment period begins, deadline to apply Jan. 15
Families in the Anoka-Hennepin School District have educational choices. The "Choices for Your Child" brochure has been distributed to every family in the district with children eligible to attend a specialty school. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Specialty Schools Document Center" folder to download a copy.
Remaining open house dates for specialty school programs are as follows:
• Jackson Middle School Math and Science Teams: Monday, Dec. 10, from 6 p.m. presentation with tours to follow, 6000 109th Ave. N. in Champlin, 763-506-5200
• Champlin Park High School - International Baccalaureate: Thursday, Dec. 13 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., South Lecture Hall. Champlin Park is at 6025 109th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park, 763-506-6800
• Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP): Thursday, Jan. 10 from 3 to 8 p.m. STEP is on the campus of Anoka Technical College, 1353 Highway 10 in Anoka, 763-433-4000.
Application and other important information:
Applications for Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School - An IB Primary Years Programme, Monroe Elementary School - Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering, Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts and Blaine High School - Center for Engineering, Mathematics and Science are due Jan. 15. The application is submitted through the Northwest Suburban Integration School District. Click here to download the application: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31193&catfilter=11714.
Applications for Lincoln, Elementary School for the Arts, Riverview Math and Environmental Science and Jackson Science and Math Teams are due Jan. 15. Click here to download the application: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=31194&catfilter=11714
Students enroll in STEP and the Champlin Park International Baccalaureate Program through the regular high school registration process. Students who do not live in the Champlin Park attendance area and wish to participate in IB must apply for in-district transfer. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/documentcenter and click on the "Enrollment Options" folder to download the form. Applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 15, 2008.
Download individual specialty school brochures in the district's Specialty School document center: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&catfilter=11714#showDoc.
14. Schools In Focus video segments now available to stream online
Selected Schools In Focus video segments are now available to stream online. Schools In Focus is a monthly TV news program featuring interesting stories and schools news from the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Schools In Focus is broadcast on local cable stations that serve the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/sifstream to view segments on the results of the 2007 levy and winter weather and school closings. New segments will be added as they become available, so be sure to check back often!
Three formats are available to view in: Windows Media (suggested for Windows platform users), QuickTime (suggested for Mac platform users) and RealPlayer. All three formats will work on either Windows or Mac platforms.
You can also check out a DVD copy of Schools In Focus at each Anoka-Hennepin school for home viewing.
15. District schools celebrate Veterans Day
Students at Sandburg Middle School learned what it means to be a veteran from one of their teachers this year. Bob Cahow, industrial technology teacher, told the students about his experiences as a serviceman in Iraq. He shared videos and photos with the students Monday, Nov. 12 in honor of Veterans Day.
Cahow said most of his work in Iraq during his year there dealt with policing. His unit also helped train the Iraqi police force. He was in C Company, an infantry division. He is a Staff Sergeant. While he was in Iraq, he re-enlisted for another six years with the Minnesota National Guard.
He thinks it is important for the students to understand what he and other soldiers do in Iraq and around the world. "The reason you have such a great life, it's because before us, a lot of men and women served," Cahow told the students. "We have it really good. This made me appreciate how life could be, and how great it is."
He encouraged the students to call a veteran and tell them thanks for their service. His own father was also a middle school teacher and a veteran, and he wore his uniform for a Veterans Day program.
"I would like my students to see a different perspective about the conflict in Iraq that isn't often shown on the news - one of hope and success," Cahow said.
Other district schools also honored those who served.
Franklin Elementary students spent the first part of November collecting supplies for the Veterans Administration Medical Center in St. Cloud. This is the second year the school has done this project, led by first-grade teacher and Blue Star Mom Pat Georg. Georg's daughter is a Coast Guard officer. Photos of veterans, mostly family members of the students and staff members, line the main hallway at the school.
Mississippi Elementary's live announcement included a piece about the holiday by a fifth-grade student. Jefferson students had a Veteran's Day display with artifacts and pictures, and students made posters. Blaine residents were invited to the school to see the display, which was in place until the end of November. Dayton Elementary fifth-graders heard about veterans' experiences firsthand from two special guests. Two Hamilton Elementary staff members and veterans spoke to students and answered questions.
Johnsville Elementary students and staff marked the day as they do for all patriotic days: the whole school recited the Pledge of Allegiance around the flagpole. Principal Pat Murray talked about the significance of the day.
Lincoln Elementary fifth-graders researched the origins and meaning of Veterans Day and how veterans are honored around the world. A grandparent of a fifth-grade student also came to the school and talked about being a veteran.
University Avenue Elementary students participated in the local VFW poster and essay contest in November, and the winners were honored on Veterans Day with a visit from the post commander and auxiliary president.
Students at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts watched a video that included staff members talking about their family members who had served in the armed forces. Coon Rapids Middle School students made cards and notes that were delivered to the Veterans Administration Hospital. Nov. 12 was Red, White and Blue Day at Jackson Middle School, and activities included school decorations and a "special edition" of the school's news program, with a report on the history of Veterans' Day.
Roosevelt Middle School had a special announcement to mark the holiday, and had a display up for the beginning of the month including items from veterans, including an American flag that was flown in Iraq.
Veterans were honored during the Champlin Park High School band concert held Nov. 12. They were asked to stand for recognition (to thunderous applause) and the band played Morton Gould's "American Salute".
Blaine High School students honored veterans during their 10th annual program held Oct. 17. The event's keynote speech was given by Jon Hovde, a Vietnam veteran.
Elementary School News and Events:
16. Lincoln Elementary School Partnership Action Team gains national recognition for parent involvement practices
The Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts Partnership Action Team is one of 75 schools across the nation this year to be featured in the National Network of Partnership Schools (NNPS) publication "Promising Partnership Practices 2007." The annual collection features more than 600 good ideas from NNPS members to improve family and community involvement linked to school improvement and student success.
Lincoln's submission describes the classroom coordinators project undertaken to assist the school's parents in transitioning to a fine arts specialty school. Classroom coordinators, also are parents or guardians of students who act much like a "room parent." A total of 14 coordinators, one from each classroom, assisted other parents with communication between the school and homes regarding class work, organized parties, promoted classroom activities, helped with field trips and assisted in the classroom.
Lincoln's coordinators were recruited and trained by Dianna Orr, Lincoln Volunteer Services coordinator. The Lincoln Partnership Action Team provides support and feedback for the coordinators and work to promote their positions at events and staff meetings. The school plans to expand the program during the school year.
Lincoln joins Morris Bye Elementary School and Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science as Anoka-Hennepin Partnership Schools that have been featured in the NNOS collection.
In addition to producing the annual collection, NNPS also recognizes schools, districts, state and organizations annually with Partnership Awards for demonstrating excellence and continous progress in applying NNPS research-based approaches to implement goal-oriented programs of school, family and community partnerships. The Anoka-Hennepin School District was a recipient of a NNPS Partnership District Award with Special Recognition in 2005.
17. L.O. Jacob Elementary School students participate in jazz music residency
L.O. Jacob Elementary students filled the school's halls with scat singing, improvisation and jazz riffs during a jazz music residency in October.
During the week-long residency, fourth grade students were immersed in creating jazz music each day, led by jazz musicians Ruth MacKenzie and Joan Griffith, and created their own lyrics and melodies to a song: "MAP Test Blues," "Cryin' All Day Blues" and "Mr. Keran Blues." Each student participated in the effort through singing or playing an instrument.
"The highlight of the week was the school song, 'We Are the Bluejays, the Mighty, Mighty Bluejays,'" said Karen Hartung, music teacher. "On the last day of the residency, the students performed all of the class blues songs and the school song for the other students, staff and their parents. The school song was a big hit, and it will be used for years to come by all the students at L.O. Jacob."
The residency was sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation (AHEF), Target and by a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board through Young Audiences of Minnesota.
High School News and Events:
18. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater fall productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Anoka High School
"Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"
Friday, Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 15 at 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 16 at 2 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m.
Joseph explodes onto the Anoka stage in his dazzling coat of many colors. Retelling of the biblical story about Joseph, his uncanny abilities and his designer coat sings out to the young and old alike! Featuring a score of wall to wall hits including "Close Every Door," "Any Dream Will Do," and "Go, Go, Go Joseph!" Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a true family classic! Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. School matinées are available for this production.
Ticket prices are $10 for reserved and $8 for general admission balcony. Ticket prices for students and senior citizens are $5 for reserved and $4 for balcony. Call the ticket office at 763-5066439 between the hours of 3 and 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday, for more information.
Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
19. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
20. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
21. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
22. High school career centers offer career days and tours
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
23. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. They are presented by Mike Branch, Focus Financial. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
• Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Blaine High School
• Dec. 11 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Champlin Park High School
• Jan. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Coon Rapids High School (time updated)
• Jan. 15 from 7 to 9 p.m.
24. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: Mar. 27, 2008, at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
25. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Dentistry, Feb. 7
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
26. Andover High School students selected to participate in American Choral Directors Association honor choirs
The following Andover High School concert choir members have been selected to participate in the Men's Honor Choir and the Women's Honor Choir for the 2008 North Central Convention of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). The event will be held Mar. 3 through 8 in Fargo, North Dakota.
Kevin Clark, grade 12, tenor I
Erin Daly, grade 12, alto II
Tavis Grorud, grade 12, bass I
Brittany Krebsbach, grade 11, soprano I
James Ostrander, grade 12, tenor II
Emily Picardi, grade 10, soprano I
Lindsay Probert, grade 12, soprano II
The Andover concert choir director is under the direction of Melanie Kjellberg.
Picardi was also selected to be a member of the ninth and 10th grade ACDA Honor Choir. She will perform with other selected students on Friday, Feb. 14 during the Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA) Mid-Winter Convention at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
27. Minnesota State High School League fall state tournament update
Backpack Online will include information on team and individual state tournament results as it is received from schools.
HIGH SCHOOL TEAMS
The following Anoka-Hennepin high schools had teams that received academic recognition through the MSHSL:
ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
Football, Section 7AAAAA Academic Champions
INDIVIDUALS
The following Anoka-Hennepin students placed first through eighth at a state tournament or received recognition through the MSHSL for participation in school athletics:
ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
All-State Academic Team - football, section AAAAA
Geoff Schmalzer
MSHSL Triple "A" Award
This award goes to one male senior and one female senior who excel in academics, arts and athletics.
Monica Boshart
Kevin Clark
BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL
Swimming and Diving - girls' 200-yard IM
Alie Schirmers, sixth place
Swimming and Diving - girls' 500-yard freestyle
Alie Schirmers, eighth place
CHAMPLIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL
All-Star Game - girls' volleyball
Natalie Thomas
Swimming and Diving - girls' 100-yard breaststroke
Abby Duncan, first place
COON RAPIDS HIGH SCHOOL
All-State Cheer Squad
Makenzie Ewins
Swimming and Diving - girls' 100-yard butterfly
Liz Starke, fifth place
28. District students participate in bullying essay and poster contests
Congratulations to winners of the district's anti-bullying poster and essay contests. The annual contest challenges students to create a poster or write an essay that shows what they can do to stop bullying in their schools. This year's theme was "Take Part, Have a Heart, Don't Bully." The contest is open to all Anoka-Hennepin students.
One winning essay and poster is selected from each grade at each school to compete in the district-level contest. District winners were recognized by the School Board earlier this fall.
POSTER WINNERS
Kindergarten: Kaitlin Nathe, Johnsville Elementary
First Grade: Callie Korzeniowski, Andover Elementary; Anna Nummela, Mississippi Elementary
Second Grade: Justin Ly, Sand Creek Elementary
Third Grade: Tammy Pham, Riverview Elementary
Fourth Grade: Grace Wojciechowski, Dayton Elementary
Fifth Grade: Sasha Dennis, University Avenue Elementary
Sixth Grade: Kate Roth, Oak View Middle School
Seventh Grade: Mary Vang, Jackson Middle School
Eighth Grade: Jonisha Smith-Gilmore, COMPASS Program
ESSAY WINNERS
Third Grade: Rylee Smith, Washington Elementary
Fourth Grade: Bradley Nelson, Sand Creek Elementary; Jazmin Waltner, Sand Creek Elementary; Joshua Kolonight, Sand Creek Elementary
Fifth Grade Essay Winner: Sydney Miller, McKinley Elementary
Sixth Grade: Robin Lindemann, Northdale Middle School
Eighth Grade: Alicia Lampe, Northdale Middle School
Click on the following link to view winning essays and posters: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=242376&sc_id=1197062430.
Superintendent's Column
29. Thank you, thank you, thank you
By Dr. Roger Giroux, Superintendent
Thank you neighbors, parents and friends. Thank you for your support of our children and their education. Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your tax dollars. Those of us who work for you acknowledge the commitment and promise on which the vote of Nov. 6 was based. Each and every day the dollars have to yield results for students. Efficiency, effectiveness, and transparency have to be the call words for our school district's educational and financial conduct.
Parents will provide the first judgment of how we value the election of Nov. 6 based on how we serve each of their sons and daughters. The integrity of our commitment will also be judged by our success with all of our students. To a greater degree than ever, our work as the educators of your children will be judged by documented, measured and observed learning in each classroom, each school and throughout the district. Measured learning is not the only criteria for effectiveness or necessarily the best, but it is an established criterion for public judgment of school effectiveness and it will serve to document the commitment sealed with the vote on Nov. 6.
Five hundred classrooms without teachers would have been the incomprehensible outcome of a failed levy vote in the schools of Anoka-Hennepin. For many of Minnesota's school districts the unthinkable of the day before is the reality of the day after. In districts with failed levy votes, children will lose their teachers and teachers will lose their jobs. It wasn't a threat; it was the logical outcome of a reduction in funding. As a state we once again face a great inequity because a child's educational opportunity is all too much determined by the location of the family house, not by a commitment to a world-class education for each child. Our state constitution guarantees a uniform system of education, not a distribution of education by wealth of community or number of households with school-age children.
During the past several months we heard from thousands of parents and other citizens and with each conversation we were presented with concerns as well as support. Our plea was to allow the levy questions to stand based on the needs of our students and the continuation of programs; and to deal with individual issues in other ways. Those conversations are not lost to a convenient post-election failure of memory. We will review the issues raised during this election and address them at the classroom, school and district levels as well as at the school board, state legislative and federal levels. A good number of the issues actually emanate from our federal government and need to be addressed through federal action. I will use this column over the next several months to report on our response to the questions raised during this levy vote.
Five years ago, we realized that the work of communicating for the renewal of an existing levy began as the vote was taken and the public was giving their support. In a very real sense our critical supporters are most focused on our schools now, in the days and weeks following a vote. We reinforce or weaken our credibility for the next five years by how well we immediately return to the voting public the quality of learning that they have financed. This year the public will be all the more focused because levy votes have passed in some districts and failed in others and the contrasting effect on students and teachers will be painfully obvious.
The challenges faced by students, parents, teachers and even school administrators and board members won't go away because we had a levy election. Problems will continue to emerge, as will differences of opinion. Nevertheless, we are blessed now as we have been blessed these many years with a concerned and involved public that accept the responsibility of educating their neighbor's children as well as their own. We are blessed with selfless public servants who put themselves up for review by neighbors as elected officials and give countless hours solving the problems of others.
We are thankful for those who continue to serve on the Anoka-Hennepin School Board. We are thankful for Marci Anderson's willingness to serve as a new member of the Board. We are thankful to Dan Cook for 10 difficult, challenging, productive years given to the children and families of our community. Thank you Mr. Cook. We are thankful for our great teachers and those who work in our schools supporting our teachers; teaching is a vocation and mission as well as a profession. We are grateful for the parents of our students who generously share the most important part of their lives with us. Above all else, we are thankful for our students because they are the greatest gift and we cherish our time with them more than all else. Friends and neighbors, we are truly thankful.
Community Education News and Events:
30. Community Education Project Power Merry Music Makers concert Dec. 19
The public is invited to attend the Merry Music Makers annual holiday concert on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. inside the front of Best Buy in the Northtown Mall in Blaine.
Merry Music Makers is part of Community Education's Project Power program. This year marks the 22nd year of the group. Many of the Merry Music Makers members have been involved since the group's first year. Members meet over the course of 10 weeks to prepare for the concert.
For more information about the Merry Music Makers concert or Community Education Project Power Programs, contact Sue Hughes, Adults With Disabilities Program specialist, at 763-506-1279.
31. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
The winter 2008 adult class catalog will be sent to each home in the Anoka-Hennepin School District just before the first of January. Watch your mailbox for more than 200 great learning opportunities. Exciting and enriching classes are calling your name. Get in shape, explore your crafty side and discover new ways to manage your money. This catalog is full of learning opportunities for everyone!
If you would like a preview of winter classes, visit the Community Education Web site at: http://www.discovercommunityed.com. Winter courses will be available for viewing and registration after Dec. 17.
32. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
One of the scariest words to a parent: "math." Whether your child needs help with math, your job requires more math, you need to brush up for entering post-secondary education, or you need math skills to GET a job, contact Metro North Adult Basic Ed.
Metro North ABE offers free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation, English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship. Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: patrice.adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out
Anoka-Hennepin schools are involved in helping those in need a variety of ways this holiday season. Many schools are collecting items for food shelves and organizing volunteer activities after school. Encouraging and helping students to give to those in need promotes compassion, a core value of Anoka-Hennepin's Character Education program. Backpack Online will include examples from our schools each week throughout the next several issues.
33. Coon Rapids Middle School collects more than 4,600 items in food drive
Coon Rapids Middle School collected a total of 4,699 items in the school's annual food drive, held during the month of November. The school's collection was donated to the Anoka County Food Shelf. The event was sponsored by the Coon Rapids Middle School student council, who will help sort and organize the collection at the Anoka Armory.
Ronald Scavo's seventh grade advisory group collected the most items this year, coming in with more than 700. The top five individual collectors in the school were: Crystal Overbaugh, Brady Thompson, Emma Stivers, Matthew Wright-Mark and Laura Nelson. The students were treated to a special lunch with Dr. Langenfeld, Coon Rapids Middle School principal.
34. Jackson Middle School staff participate in annual "Giving Tree"
Jackson Middle School staff are working to make the upcoming holiday a little brighter for families who need assistance during the holidays. Each year, staff donate food and money to provide Jackson families in need with a holiday meal, as part of their "Giving Tree" project. Staff purchase designated items that are displayed on Christmas balls on a tree in the staff breakroom. Food items purchased by staff are used to create food baskets for Jackson families. Monetary donations are used to purchase a turkey for each basket. Baskets are given to families the week before Christmas.
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Backpack Online #12 - Temporary service disruption for A-HConenct, TOP Award nomination deadline extended to Jan. 2 and Sandburg Middle School teacher presents Veterans Day program. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Temporary service disruption for A-HConnect Nov. 21 through 26
2. Public hearing on Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Program Nov. 26
Question of the Week
3. Are elementary children not required to eat a well-balanced lunch if purchased through the lunch program?
School Board News:
4. School Board update
General News and Events:
5. Public invited to Elementary Math Adoption Materials open house Dec. 3
6. Anoka Children's Theatre presents "The Nutcracker" Dec. 7 through 9
7. Twin Cities Public Television presents "Change" Dec. 15
8. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
9. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline extended to Jan. 2
10. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
11. Anoka-Hennepin schools participate in "Mix It Up at Lunch" Day
12. Champlin Park High School nurse awarded School Nurse of the Year title
13. Sandburg Middle School industrial technology teacher named Minnesota Technology Education Association New Teacher Excellence award winner
14. Free Early Childhood Screening available for three and a half, four and five-year-olds
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Franklin Elementary School celebrates World Culture Day
Middle School News and Events:
16. Honeywell brings "FMA Live" science program to Coon Rapids Middle School
17. Sandburg Middle School teacher presents Veterans Day program
18. Sandburg Middle School sixth grade teams spend "A Day in Pompeii"
High School News and Events:
19. Upcoming high school theater productions
20. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
21. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
22. High school career centers open to the public (link)
23. High school career centers offer career days and tours
24. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students (updated)
25. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
26. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
27. Coon Rapids High School students elected as state FCCLA officers
28. Minnesota State High School League fall state tournament update
Community Education News and Events:
29. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
30. Classes now available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
31. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
32. Blaine High School 10th annual Teddy Bear Challenge
33. Eisenhower Elementary School "Kookies" give back to the community (update)
Upcoming Events:
1. Temporary service disruption for A-HConnect Nov. 21 through 26
A-HConnect will be unavailable from Wednesday, Nov. 21 at noon to Monday, Nov. 26 for scheduled maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience. Parents will not be able to access information about their children during this time (This includes items such as grade book information, schedules and lunch account balances).
If you are experiencing problems with A-HConnect, please call the A-HConnect helpline at 763-506-HELP (4357). If you call after hours, please leave a message; staff will be notified and work to resolve the issue immediately.
2. Public hearing on Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Program Nov. 26
The Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Parent Committee and Indian Education staff invites citizens to share their ideas on the Indian Education Program at a public hearing on Monday, Nov. 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
Public comment from the meeting will be considered as Indian Education Parent Committee revises and strengthens the Indian Education Program for the district.
Those who call ahead will be heard first, but others may also speak to the committee. There will be a three-minute time limit. Speakers may provide a written summary of their remarks if they wish. Refreshments will be served.
For more information or to be placed on the agenda, contact Barry Scanlan at 763-506-1280 or at: Barry.Scanlan@anoka.k12.mn.us.
3. Question of the Week:
The Anoka-Hennepin School District Communications Department often receives questions from community members about various aspects of the district. In an effort to keep our community members informed, Backpack Online will include periodically some of these questions and responses.
Do you have a question that you'd like to ask about the Anoka-Hennepin School District, or need a rumor clarification? If so, send them to Courtney Markuson, staff writer, at: Courtney.Markuson@anoka.k12.mn.us. The Communications and Public Relations Department will periodically select one question and/or rumor to address in Backpack Online communications.
Question: My husband recently had a lunch date with our sons, who are in kindergarten and first grade. He noticed that neither of them took any fruit or vegetables. Are elementary children not required to eat a well-balanced lunch if purchased through the lunch program? Parents are paying for the fruits and vegetables as a combined meal price. If students do not take part of what is offered, are parents still charged for the food that their child did not take?
Response: School menus are planned to allow students several choices within each food category, while still maintaining the nutritional integrity of the meals (known as the "offer versus serve" provision).
Under the "offer versus serve" provision, students must be offered the minimum required four food items at breakfast and five food items at lunch in the required amounts, but have the options of selecting a minimum of two items at breakfast and three items at lunch. Combination foods can be selected and can count as more than one food item. All meals that meet the guidelines are priced as a unit, regardless of whether or not all required items are chosen.
When students are allowed to select the foods they intend to eat, there is less food waste, increased customer satisfaction, they learn to make healthy choices and, most importantly, students eat more food and get the proper nutrients they need to grow and maintain a healthy mind and body.
Anoka-Hennepin's Child Nutrition staff encourage students to try "taste portions" of new or unfamiliar foods, rather than turn them down completely.
The "offer versus serve" notification is published annually in the September menu. Additional nutritional information can be found on the Child Nutrition Web site at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/cnp.
School Board News:
4. School Board update
Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP) was in the spotlight at the Anoka-Hennepin School Board meeting held Tuesday, Nov. 12. Program Director Ginny Karbowski presented a slide show talking about the progress STEP has made in its six years.
The school has 800 students enrolled, some part-time and some full time. Students come from district high schools and alternative programs. The student body at STEP mirrors the district in ethnicity and academic achievement, Karbowski said. More than 60 percent of the students at STEP intend to go on to a two- or four-year college program.
Blaine High School and STEP student Molly Miller talked about her experiences in the program's law enforcement classes, which she loved. She showed the board a diorama of a crime scene, where all of the elements were carefully placed after measurements were taken from a room to recreate it in painstaking accuracy. The measurements, she said, are proof of what happened in the room.
"The measurements help us locate objects, like a body in the room," she said. "I believe I understood math a lot more at my home high school after these classes. I actually wanted to try after these classes."
Miller told the board that now she wants to be a crime scene investigator. She plans to attend North Hennepin for a two-year degree and be a community service officer to help her work her way through college.
Aviation teacher Pete Groebner said the classes he has been teaching have had students fascinated over the past year with learning how to write a program on a chip that will run a pacemaker or a defibrillator.
"The students come to understand this circuit is a complex working program," he said. The engineering classes at STEP are considered entry-level engineering classes, with a curriculum written by college professors and accepted at 28 colleges.
Karbowski said STEP has attracted many visitors and admirers over the past year, including the Minnesota Department of Education and a delegation from Sweden.
General News and Events:
5. Public invited to Elementary Math Adoption Materials open house Dec. 3
The public is invited to attend the Elementary Math Adoption Materials open house on Monday, Dec. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka.
Community members, parents and teachers will be able to view Elementary Math Adoption Materials and see the three programs that are being reviewed by the Elementary Math Adoption Committee: Investigations in Number, Data and Space Second Edition, Math Expressions and Everyday Math.
The programs are being piloted this fall. The committee will vote on final choices in January and the new math program will be implemented in the fall of 2008.
For more information, contact Penny Freberg, teaching and learning specialist for elementary mathematics, at: penny.freberg@anoka.k12.mn.us.
6. Anoka Children's Theatre presents "The Nutcracker" Dec. 7 through 9
The public is invited to attend the Anoka Children's Theatre's (ACT) production of "The Nutcracker" Friday, Dec. 7 through Sunday, Dec. 9.
The Nutcracker is an endearing story about a young girl and her nutcracker as they journey through Candyland and the land of the Snow Queen. They are in search of the
Sugar Plum Fairy who has the power to break the spell, turning the Nutcracker back into
the Prince.
Public performances are: Friday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m.,
Saturday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for youth (ages 18 and under) and are available at the door or by calling the ACT reservation line at 763-506-5114. Reservations will be accepted through Tuesday, Dec. 4.
ACT is an Anoka-Hennepin Community Education fine arts program for students in grades four through eight. A total of 30 students from 15 district schools will perform in "The Nutcracker."
"This is holiday entertainment for the entire family right in your own community," said Sheila Moller, ACT production manager.
Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts is located at 1523 Fifth Ave. S., in Anoka.
7. Twin Cities Public Television presents "Change" Dec. 15
The following event is endorsed by the Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement Program. Anoka-Hennepin families and community members are encouraged to view this program.
Twin Cities Public Television (TCPT, channel 17) will broadcast the television musical "Change" on Saturday, Dec. 15 at 10 p.m. Change is a musical about building and maintaining healthy, peaceful family relationships. As the holiday seasons approach, many families and individuals experience both great joy and great stress. Anoka-Hennepin's Parent Involvement Program encourages families to view this program.
"Change "was a project developed by the Initiative for Violence Free Families and Communities in Ramsey County and produced in conjunction with TCPT.
8. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
The following event is co-sponsored by Blaine High School and endorsed by Anoka-Hennepin orchestra teachers. Anoka-Hennepin families and community members are encouraged to attend this free event.
The public is invited to attend a free holiday community concert the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. at Blaine High School.
The orchestra, conducted by Mark Russell Smith, will perform the following musical pieces:
"Brandenburg Concerto No. 3" (Bach)
"Dumbarton Oaks" (Stravinsky)
"Air" (Bach)
"Christmas Concerto" (Corelli)
"Winter" from The Four Seasons (Vivaldi)
"Emperor Waltz" (Strauss, arr. Schoenberg)
Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Call 651-291-1144 or visit: www.thespco.org to make reservations. The Blaine High School auditorium has approximately 900 seats, so make reservations as soon as possible.
Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
9. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline extended to Jan. 2
The Teacher Outstanding Performance Award program involves students, parents and community members in recognizing and rewarding outstanding teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
The award program is co-sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Each year, 20 teachers from throughout the district are selected as TOP teachers. Each winner will receive a grant that may be used to cover the costs of a special educational opportunity or to purchase educational materials or equipment. Four winners will also receive an additional $1,000 grant to fund a special project at their school plus $500 cash from the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Winners will be recognized at a ceremony in May.
All licensed preK-12 teachers employed in the Anoka-Hennepin School District are eligible for this award. Teachers who have already been named TOP award recipients are no longer eligible. Click on the following link to view the list of previous winners in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18490
A student, parent or community member can nominate a teacher, one nomination per person. Click on the following link to download a nomination form on the district Web site: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=28389&catfilter=11704. The nomination deadline has been extended to Jan. 2.
Nomination and application forms will be reviewed by a panel of parents, students and educators who will choose the winners. Interviews will be conducted to determine winners of the four school project grants. Project grant winners will be announced at the award ceremony.
10. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
Judges are needed for the Anoka-Hennepin School District's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair on Saturday, Jan. 12 at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. N.E., in Blaine. The fair is the largest in the state with more than 1,000 participants, and is open to all K-12 students. Organizers are seeking volunteers to judge projects and coach students.
You don't need to be a science expert to be a judge! Judges can register for the morning session, afternoon session or both. Judges for grades 6 through 12 projects check in at 7:45 a.m., attend a one-hour training session and then judge and complete scoring by 11:15 a.m. Judges for kindergarten through grade 5 check in and attend a half-hour training session from 1 to 1:30 p.m. and give feedback to students from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
To register as a judge, go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/stemfair. For more information, contact Kevin Molohon at 763-506-7084 or at: Kevin.Molohon@anoka.k12.mn.us.
11. Anoka-Hennepin schools participate in "Mix It Up at Lunch" Day
Several Anoka-Hennepin schools participated in "Mix It Up at Lunch" Day on Nov. 13. The event encourages students to cross lines and meet new people at lunch. By making the move, students can cross the lines of division, meet new people and make new friends.
Jackson Middle School in Champlin was one of the participating schools and was featured on KARE 11. Click on the following link to view the video or read the text of this broadcast: http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=269578.
12. Champlin Park High School nurse awarded School Nurse of the Year title
Sheila Davies, Champlin Park High School school nurse, has been named 2007-2008 School Nurse of the Year by the School Nurse Organization of Minnesota (SNOM).
SNOM recognized Davies for exemplary service including improving the health and well being of students at Champlin Park High School, enriching the Anoka-Hennepin School Community, and providing a model of excellence in school nursing practices and school health for all school nurses in Minnesota.
Davies has served as a school nurse for the Anoka-Hennepin school district since 1995. Prior to that, she worked for 22 years at North Memorial Hospital. Her responsibilities in the district include supervising services to meet the overall health of students at Champlin Park High School, Monroe Elementary School and Evergreen Park Elementary School.
Davies says the job of a school nurse has evolved from the days when they mainly "put on Band-Aids" to assisting students with physical and emotional needs. The Minnesota State Department of Education now licenses school nurses. Just as essential as emergency room nurses, Davies says, "The 650 licensed school nurses in Minnesota are specialists facing a unique set of opportunities and challenges."
"Currently school nurses help students and families move forward every day so that student needs are met and they can be successful and effective in their classrooms," says Davies. At the high school level, students seek advice from school nurses as they learn how to make mature health decisions. School nurses sometimes coach families in finding healthcare for their children, especially as health insurance has become more difficult to obtain. Other educators seek advice from school nurses on appropriate information to include in health-related curriculums.
As part of her duties, Davies collaborates with community groups and agencies to effectively meet the needs of students at Champlin Park, the second-largest high school in the state. She mentors fellow school nurses and provides leadership to support a student scholarship. Davies represented SNOM on the Minnesota High School League and acts as the SNOM West Metro Representative. She has been active in the local teacher's union and participated in the Johnson & Johnson School Nurse Fellowship, a program hosting school nurses from around the world at Rutgers University. Together the nurses in the program set goals for positively impacting student health and educating the public about the role of school nurses.
13. Sandburg Middle School industrial technology teacher named Minnesota Technology Education Association New Teacher Excellence award winner
In a field dominated by men, Sandburg Middle School industrial technology teacher Alison Almos has risen to the top.
Almos was recently named the Minnesota Technology Education Association New Teacher Excellence award winner for 2007. The award is given to an outstanding teacher with fewer than five years of teaching experience.
Almos enjoys the real hands-on aspects of her class, and believes the students have a unique opportunity to really grasp concepts in real applications. She gave an example of alternative energy sources, like solar and wind power.
"I believe that students don't truly understand this concept until they come down and work on the alternative energy module," she wrote in her award application. "There they manipulate solar cells and learn in a hands-on way how to manipulate the blade angle of the wind generator to see how many volts of energy it can produce."
Almos and her teaching partner, Bob Cahow, teach a class that is divided between a modular lab and traditional woodworking. Cahow received the MTEA award last year.
In her fourth year of teaching, Almos said she has no desire to teach at the high school level, even though she could.
"I love middle-school kids because they're goofy," she said. "To see them go from sixth to eighth grade is cool."
When Almos was in school in Oshkosh, Wis., she had a female technical education instructor in her graphics class. While she said that didn't inspire her to become a tech ed teacher, it showed her that she could.
In his nomination letter, Cahow said Almos has been an inspiration for her students.
"She is an excellent role model for all young women who want to take technology education classes, which I believe has led to an increased female population in our technology education classrooms," he said.
Education seems to run in her family - her husband and brother-in-law are both shop teachers and her mother and grandmother were both teachers.
14. Free Early Childhood Screening available for three and a half, four and five-year-olds
Do you have a three and a half, four or five-year-old child? In Minnesota, all children are required to complete Early Childhood Screening before they enter kindergarten. Screening should be completed before a child turns four years old, specifically between the ages of three and a half and four. Screening is a free, brief check of a young child's health and development. Screening is not an IQ test nor does it determine school readiness; rather it helps to identify possible concerns. The screening process includes:
• a look at the child's development
• vision and hearing checks
• height and weight measurements
• immunization and health history review
Call the Early Childhood Screening office at 763-433-4600 for more information if:
• you are new to the district
• your child is between the ages of three and four
• your child will be entering kindergarten in the fall of 2008 and has not been screened
Screening is offered daily throughout the school year at the Family Center Mall on Crooked Lake Boulevard. in Coon Rapids and once a month at the Blaine Family Place.
Elementary School News and Events:
15. Franklin Elementary School celebrates World Culture Day
Franklin Elementary School celebrated World Culture Day on Nov. 7 with a school-wide interactive event.
The event brings the world directly to students and students, said Principal Vickie Spindler. "The event provides an opportunity for students and staff to meet and learn from natives of different countries."
Each student heard from three representatives of different cultures and participated in a variety of intercultural activities, including having "passports" stamped by international guests as a reminder of the day's experiences and multicultural purpose. The event culminated with a school-wide ceremony to celebrate new friendships.
Middle School News and Events:
16. Honeywell brings "FMA Live" science program to Coon Rapids Middle School
It's not every day that middle school students get to see their assistant principal take a cream pie in the face, see two teachers wrestle in giant padded suits or see a fellow classmate jump onto a Velcro wall. However, for Coon Rapids Middle School students, it was a reality on Oct. 31, thanks to "FMA Live," a science education program that teaches students about Sir Isaac Newton's laws of motion and the universal law of gravity.
The program, created by NASA and Honeywell Corp. in 2004, travels to middle schools across the county and Canada, and uses fast-paced videos, singing, hip-hop dancing and interactive science demonstrations to get students excited about science and to show how science is in their everyday lives. Its name is taken from the equation inspired by Newton's Second Law of Motion, Force = mass x acceleration, or F = ma.
Students were chosen to demonstrate Newton's laws of motion using a Velcro wall, a 6-foot-tall and uncharacteristically heavy soccer ball and carbon dioxide-powered dragsters. Teachers Bob Adams and Wade Hinson volunteered for "extreme wrestling" with giant padded suits and helmets while Assistant Principal Kent Smith piloted a hover chair into a giant cream pie.
For some students, the exciting part was participating in the demonstrations. Eighth grader Alicia Chubb thought the carbon dioxide-powered race was especially fun.
"I liked being able to be a participant in the actual program," said Chubb. "My favorite demonstration was the one that I was in. I sat in a little derby car with tanks of compressed air that made them go. I had to wear a helmet for safety and earplugs because it was really loud. The backwards force created by the compressed air sent the car moving in the opposite direction. There was a bungee cord to prevent me from crashing. It was really fun!"
Students are already using the knowledge gained from the event, according to Cheryl Sill, Coon Rapids Middle School science teacher.
"The students were bombarded with the formula F = ma and its continual repetition helped to engrain this concept," said Sill. "This is a wonderful example of how the 'Language of Science' can be put to practical applications. Already, the F = ma formula has been used as a basis for several of my students' science projects. How cool!"
Honeywell covers the cost of the program, so there is no cost to schools. Coon Rapids Middle School was the only metro-area stop for the program. For more information on the program, visit: www.fmalive.com.
Click on the following link to view photos of this event in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18983.
17. Sandburg Middle School teacher presents Veterans Day program
Students at Sandburg Middle School learned what it means to be a veteran from one of their teachers this year. Bob Cahow, industrial technology teacher, told the students about his experiences as a serviceman in Iraq. He shared videos and photos with the students Monday, Nov. 12 in honor of Veterans Day.
Cahow said most of his work in Iraq during his year there dealt with policing. His unit also helped train the Iraqi police force. He was in C Company, an infantry division. He is a Staff Sergeant. While he was in Iraq, he re-enlisted for another six years with the Minnesota National Guard.
He thinks it is important for the students to understand what he and other soldiers do in Iraq and around the world. "The reason you have such a great life, it's because before us, a lot of men and women served," Cahow told the students. "We have it really good. This made me appreciate how life could be, and how great it is."
He encouraged the students to call a veteran and tell them thanks for their service. His own father was also a middle school teacher and a veteran, and he wore his uniform for a Veterans Day program.
"I would like my students to see a different perspective about the conflict in Iraq that isn't often shown on the news - one of hope and success," Cahow said.
Click on the following link to view a photo of this event in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18951.
18. Sandburg Middle School sixth grade teams spend "A Day in Pompeii"
On August 24, 79 A.D., a massive eruption of Mt. Vesuvius buried the ancient Roman resort city of Pompeii, freezing the city and its people in a historic moment in time. On Nov. 8, Sandburg Middle School sixth graders experienced their own historic moment by spending "A Day in Pompeii" and learning what life was like in first century Rome.
The event was inspired by a field trip to view the "A Day in Pompeii" exhibit at the Science Museum of Minnesota and featured a variety of Roman-themed activities that were integrated into curricular areas, complete with Roman music, food, and of course, togas.
Students participated in different activities in each curricular area, said Diane Hunter, sixth grade teacher at Sandburg. "Sixth grade teachers looked over our curriculum after the field trip to the Science Museum and realized how easy it would be to integrate the day into all curricular areas."
"The event especially tied in with sixth-grade social studies, as Pompeii is studied as part of our social studies unit on ancient Rome," said Judy Anderson, sixth grade teacher at Sandburg. Students also viewed "Greece: Secrets of the Past" at the Omnitheater as part of their unit of ancient Greece.
Students read about a historical fiction piece about a boy and his dog in Pompeii, as well as a non-fiction article on the events of the volcano, in Integrated Language Arts (ILA) classes. Students also acted out a Roman play ("The Phantoms of Pompeii"), reviewed Lation root words and their meanings and read a letter from a young girl in neighboring Naples about what she witnessed on the day of the eruption.
In science, students constructed, experimented and discussed the strength of Roman columns in teams using books to test the amount of weight a paper column could hold. Students also discussed and experimented with earthquakes and volcanoes. In math, students used Roman numerals (made out of popsicle sticks) in math activities and review.
In physical education and health, students learned about archery and popular Roman games like Roman chess, tic tac toe, twelve lines and knuckle bones. In art and music classes, students created mosaics and listened to Roman music.
Students and staff also dressed up in togas to mark the occasion and learned an important lesson about Roman fashion said Hunter. "Students learned quickly why the fashion statement of the day, 'the toga' became short lived; it was cumbersome and difficult to walk in!"
Overall, the day was a success, according to Hunter. "The students enjoyed the day and they seemed to get so much more out of their study as the topic of Pompeii was intertwined in every
classroom."
Click on the following link to view photos of this event in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18986.
High School News and Events:
19. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater fall productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Coon Rapids High School
"A Christmas Carol"
Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance)
Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Dec. 6 at 7 p.m.
Dec. 7 at 7 p.m.
Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Coon Rapids High School FCCLA students and staff will provide childcare during the following performances (donations are accepted and reservations are required):
• Saturday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.
To reserve a seat or make a reservation for childcare, call the Coon Rapids High School box office at 763-506-7291. Tickets may also be reserved online at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/crhstheatre. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W., in Coon Rapids.
20. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
21. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
22. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
23. High school career centers offer career days and tours
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
24. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students (updated)
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. They are presented by Mike Branch, Focus Financial. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
• Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Blaine High School
• Dec. 11 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Champlin Park High School
• Jan. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Coon Rapids High School (time updated)
• Jan. 15 from 7 to 9 p.m.
25. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: Mar. 27, 2008, at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
26. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Dentistry, Feb. 7
Pharmacy, Feb. 29
Medicine, Mar. 27
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
27. Coon Rapids High School students elected as state FCCLA officers
Coon Rapids High School students Corissa Duffy and Amber Johnson were elected to the Minnesota Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) executive council on Nov. 16 at the annual FCCLA fall delegate assembly.
FCCLA is a student leadership organization that focuses on youth, peer education and family. The Minnesota FCCLA executive council is comprised of eight state officers.
Duffy and Johnson attended FCCLA leadership training this past weekend and represented the Minnesota FCCLA delegation at the National FCCLA Cluster Conference.
28. Minnesota State High School League fall state tournament update
Backpack Online will include information on team and individual state tournament results as it is received from schools.
HIGH SCHOOL TEAMS
The following Anoka-Hennepin high schools had teams that placed first, second or third in a Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) state tournament this fall:
ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
Girl's volleyball, second place, class AAA
ANOKA HIGH SCHOOL
Boy's soccer, first place, class AA
ANOKA-HENNEPIN SCHOOL DISTRICT
Adapted soccer, first place, physical impairment (PI)
Adapted soccer, second place, cognitive impairment (CI)
INDIVIDUALS
The following Anoka-Hennepin students received recognition through the MSHSL and other associations for participation in school athletics:
ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
2007 Class AAA All-Tournament Team - girl's volleyball
Megan Carlson
Lauren Cipperly
All-State - girl's volleyball
Megan Carlson
All-State Honorable Mention - boy's soccer
Thomas Shuldheisz
All-Conference - girl's volleyball
Megan Carlson
Lauren Cipperly
Alex Nelson
American Volleyball Coaches' Association (AVCA) Player of the Week - girl's volleyball
Megan Carlson
ANOKA-HENNEPIN SCHOOL DISTRICT
2007 CI Division All-Tournament Team - adapted soccer
Nathan Jockisch
Tyler Kurkowski
Marcus Leser
2007 PI Division All-Tournament Team - adapted soccer
Lesley Sherga
Jacob Wiehle
Star Tribune Athlete of the Week - adapted soccer
Leslie Sherga
ANOKA HIGH SCHOOL
2007 Class AA All-Tournament Team - boy's soccer
Alex Casey
Miles Colago
Joe Gustafson
Nick Svedin
BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL
2007 Class AAA All-Tournament Team - girl's volleyball
Jessica Granquist
All-State - girl's volleyball
Jessica Granquist
All-State - girl's soccer
Alexandra Pafko
All-State - cross country
Ryan Baumgartner
Community Education News and Events:
29. What's New from Community Education Adult Learning
It's that time a year when we welcome friends and family into our homes and enjoy all the season has to offer. The holiday season is an occasion for celebrating, gift giving, making memories and sharing good food. That's why Adult Learning is the perfect choice for great class offerings to take you through the entire season. Check out these terrific classes:
HOLIDAY FRIENDSHIP TEA http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7335&catID=
MOSAIC COASTERS http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7757&catID=
PARENT/CHILD DESERT GARDEN http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7712&catID=
FUSED GLASS ORNAMENTS http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7748&catID=
GIFTS GALORE TEACHER MAKE AND TAKE GIFTS http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7820&catID=
THREE-TIERED HOLIDAY SUNCATCHER http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7800&catID=
ORNAMANIA http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7772&catID=
GET EXCITED ABOUT WINTER http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7486&catID=
CROSS COUNTRY SKIING http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7487&catID=
CROSS COUNTRY SKI WAXING CLINIC http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7485&catID=
HOLIDAY HORS D'OEUVRES http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7362&catID=
For more information or to register for classes, visit: http://www.discovercommunityed.com or call 763-506-5766 (Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
30. Classes now available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
PARENTS FOREVER
A Minnesota Supreme Court-approved parent education program offered in three, four-hour classes covering: impact of divorce on adults, impact of divorce on children (two parts), legal issues and role of mediation in divorce, money issues in divorce and pathways to a new life. Childcare is not available for this class. Registration fee includes a $30 materials fee.
Section 3
• Saturdays, Dec. 1 and 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
• $120 per person
For more information on this class, click on the following link: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=194135&sc_id=1189178881.
NOTE TO PARENTS OF KIDS WITH AUTISM
Join other parents of children and youth demonstrating characteristics of autism spectrum disorder. Grow in stress management, communication, and empowerment though small group and personal reflection. View your child relative to home, school and society as you look at your own challenges in your parenting role. Instructor: Mary Z. McGrath. Class fee: $9 per person.
• Tuesday, Nov. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
WALKING THE TALK: HOW TO TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Come learn accurate and timely ways to talk with your kids about the use and nonuse of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, and understand the important influence parents' behavior and attitudes have on their children. This class provides an opportunity to develop your own personal guidelines and practice how to initiate discussions with family members and friends.
Co-Sponsored by Connexus Energy, Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement and the Minnesota Prevention Resource Center (MPRC), a project of the Minnesota Institute of Public Health with funding provided through a grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Chemical Health Division. Snacks and refreshments provided. This is a free class, however, pre-registration is required.
• Thursday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Connexus Energy, 14601 Ramsey Blvd., Ramsey, community rooms A and B (arrive at front entrance and park in visitor parking)
DATING VIOLENCE
How can you be sure your teen is aware of what dating violence is and know how to avoid being a victim - or victimizer. Come find the words of how to talk to your teen about healthy dating relationships and tips to keep them safe. Learn how to identify if your teen is in trouble in their relationship and the influence that technology has in modern dating. Presented by Sarah McClellan, Women of Nations. No fee for this class.
• Thursday, Nov. 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
PARENTING ON PURPOSE: RED YELLOW GREEN
The Red-Yellow-Green Framework is a way to think about parenting in order to raise a cared for, self-reliant child. This simple but effective method helps adults deliver direct and clear messages, establish necessary rituals and routines, and communicate family values, benefits and expectations. Instructor: Ada Alden, PhD. Class fee: $9 per person.
• Thursday, Nov. 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
STEPPING IN AND STEPPING UP FOR FAMILIES
You are shopping and see a parent at wit's end with their screaming child. Or maybe it's the parent who's screaming. Is there something you can do to help ease the situation? You can initiate simple, helpful interactions that support parents when they are in an awkward situation parenting in public. Learn how to lend a hand to families as fellow human beings. Presented by Donna McDonald, Linda Rodgers and Beth Kuehn. Class fee: $5 per person.
• Tuesday, Dec. 4 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
Register for classes by phone, 763-506-1278, or online at: www.discovercommunityed.com. There is a $1 fee for online registration. Classes without a fee must call 763-506-1587 or fax 763-506-1268 to register.
31. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
One of the scariest words to a parent: "math" - Whether your child needs help with math, your job requires more math, you need to brush up for entering post-secondary education, or you need math skills to GET a job, contact Metro North Adult Basic Ed.
Metro North ABE offers free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation, English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship. Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-783-4879 or email: patrice.adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out:
32. Blaine High School 10th annual Teddy Bear Challenge
The Blaine High School Business Professionals of America (BPA) students are sponsoring the school's 10th annual Teddy Bear Challenge. Funds will be collected through next week and then used to purchase real teddy bears for sick children in the Children's and Fairview hospitals. Public donations are welcomed. Contact Randy Hemstad, business teacher at Blaine High School, at randy.hemstad@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information.
33. Eisenhower Elementary School "Kookies" give back to the community (update)
Eisenhower Elementary School's year long penny drive is still going strong into the month of November. To date, Eisenhower staff and students have raised $197.51, of which $111.68 was donated to the Coon Rapids Police Department and $85.83 to the Coon Rapids Fire Department. November's funds will be donated to the Coon Rapids Senior Center.
The school will continue to collect funds through its penny drive and donate to organizations through May. The penny drive is spearheaded by Eisenhower child nutrition staff and self-proclaimed "Kookies."
The following organizations and members have volunteered their time to serve lunch to Eisenhower students:
Coon Rapids Police Department - Police Chief Steve Wells and Officer Ken Young, Sept. 21
Coon Rapids Fire Department - Fire Chief John Piper and Fire Marshall Todd Williams, Oct. 25
Coon Rapids Senior Center - Ron and Linda Heltemes, Nov. 15
Backpack Online will update Eisenhower's totals every month in a featured issue. Members of the public are welcome to participate in the drive by donating their own pennies or contacting Patty Sathre at 763-506-2311 for details.
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Backpack Online #11 - Anoka-Hennepin teachers awarded AEMinnesota art educator of the year awards, mathematical pumpkins at Adams Elementary School and Riverview Specialty School students participate in Girls in Science Saturday camp. |
Upcoming Events:
1. Free meth prevention program "Look Smart, Don't Start" for families Nov. 15
2. Jackson Middle School to present "The Pied Piper" Nov. 15 and 16
3. Coon Rapids High School German club "Oktoberfest" event Nov. 15
General News and Events:
4. AHEF Northern Stars Beach Ball Nov. 17
5. Public hearing on Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Program Nov. 26
6. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline Dec. 7
7. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
8. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
9. Anoka-Hennepin teachers awarded Art Educators of Minnesota art educator of the year awards
Elementary School News and Events:
10. Mathematical pumpkins at Adams Elementary School
11. Riverview Specialty School students participate in "Girls in Science - Saturday Science Camp"
High School News and Events:
12. Champlin Park High School "So You Think You Can Dance" performance Nov. 17
13. Upcoming high school theater productions
14. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
15. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
16. High school career centers open to the public (link)
17. High school career centers offer career days and tours
18. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
19. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
20. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
21. Andover High School marching band ends season on a high note
22. Andover High School student elected as state DECA officer
Community Education News and Events:
23. Classes now available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
24. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
25. Johnsville Elementary School raises $1,575 for UNICEF
Upcoming Events:
1. Free meth prevention program "Look Smart, Don't Start" for families Nov. 15
The Anoka-Hennepin School District, Anoka County Meth Task Force and Mercy-Unity Hospitals are partnering to offer a meth prevention program, "Look Smart, Don't Start" on Thursday, Nov. 15 at Oak View Middle School cafetorium from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The event is free and no registration is required. A prize drawing will be held.
Featuring speaker Michael George, the event will cover prevention tips for parents and students, resources for help or questions, the impact of meth on users, their families and taxpayers.
George, an assistant principal at Coon Rapids High School, learned about meth's impact while experiencing his sister and brother-in-law's struggles with addiction. George decided to help others spot the signs of meth use and get help before it's too late.
For more information on the event, call 763-422-6970. Oak View Middle School is located at 15400 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
2. Jackson Middle School to present "The Pied Piper" Nov. 15 and 16
The public is invited to attend Jackson Middle School's production of the musical "The Pied Piper" on Thursday, Nov. 15 and Friday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. in the school's gymnasium.
The performances will feature 60 sixth-grade students singing and dancing as rats invade their beautiful town of Hamelin. Come and see the Pied Piper lead the nasty rats away and run into trouble when the townspeople refuse to pay him his fee.
Event admission is $2 for students and $3 for adults. Jackson Middle School is located at 6000 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
3. Coon Rapids High School German club "Oktoberfest" event Nov. 15
The public is invited to attend Coon Rapids High School's "Oktoberfest" celebration on Thursday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. in the school auditorium. The event is hosted by the Coon Rapids High School German club and will feature German music from the Bavarian Musikmeisters band, German food and fun.
A bratwurst supper will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the door and are $5 for adults and $3 for students. All proceeds will benefit the 2008 German trip participants at Coon Rapids High School and the Coon Rapids High School German club. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
General News and Events:
4. AHEF Northern Stars Beach Ball Nov. 17
By Barb Winfield, executive director, Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation
A warm beach, summer sun … in Minnesota in November? "Northern Stars Beach Ball" is the theme of the 13th annual Northern Stars Ball to benefit students of Anoka-Hennepin School District and Anoka Technical College. The "Northern Stars Beach Ball" will be at the Northland Inn in Brooklyn Park, an elegant, yet convenient, location for north suburban residents. Festivities are Saturday, Nov. 17, and begin with a silent auction and social at 6 p.m., followed by dinner.
A short program and live auction begin at 8:30 p.m. Kevin Fuhrman, director of the Coon Rapids High School Marching Band, will play the steel drums during the social hour, and Andover High School Orchestra will provide fun music for dinner. Kevin Fuhrman and his group called "330 North" will provide an excellent sound for island dancing.
The ball is jointly sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation (AHEF) and the Anoka Technical College Foundation. More than $40,000 was raised last year, which was divided equally between the two foundations. AHEF uses these funds for talent development grants, which provide challenging and creative learning experiences for students in Anoka-Hennepin schools.
Tickets are $75, $30 of which is tax deductible. Barb Winfield, Executive Director for AHEF said, "We invite you to gather a group of friends or work colleagues and purchase a table. We also welcome table sponsors at several levels."
Created in 1990 as a 501 (c) (3), non-profit corporation, AHEF's mission is to seek resources to support and enrich educational opportunities for Anoka-Hennepin students in partnership with the community of District 11. To order tickets or for more information on AHEF events and opportunities, call Barb Winfield at 763-506-1107.
5. Public hearing on Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Program Nov. 26
The Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Parent Committee and Indian Education staff invite citizens to share their ideas on the Indian Education Program at a public hearing on Monday, Nov. 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
Public comment from the meeting will be considered as Indian Education Parent Committee revises and strengthens the Indian Education Program for the district.
Those who call ahead will be heard first, but others may also speak to the committee. There will be a three-minute time limit. Speakers may provide a written summary of their remarks if they wish. Refreshments will be served.
For more information or to be placed on the agenda, contact Barry Scanlan at 763-506-1280 or at: Barry.Scanlan@anoka.k12.mn.us.
6. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline Dec. 7
The Teacher Outstanding Performance Award program involves students, parents and community members in recognizing and rewarding outstanding teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
The award program is co-sponsored by the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Each year, 20 teachers from throughout the district are selected as TOP teachers. Each winner will receive a grant that may be used to cover the costs of a special educational opportunity or to purchase educational materials or equipment. Four winners will also receive an additional $1,000 grant to fund a special project at their school plus $500 cash from the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation. Winners will be recognized at a ceremony in May.
All licensed preK-12 teachers employed in the Anoka-Hennepin School District are eligible for this award. Teachers who have already been named TOP award recipients are no longer eligible. Click on the following link to view the list of previous winners in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18490
A student, parent or community member can nominate a teacher, one nomination per person. Click on the following link to download a nomination form on the district Web site: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=28389&catfilter=11704. The deadline to nominate is Dec. 7.
Nomination and application forms will be reviewed by a panel of parents, students and educators who will choose the winners. Interviews will be conducted to determine winners of the four school project grants. Project grant winners will be announced at the award ceremony.
7. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra to perform free holiday community concert Dec. 19
The following event is co-sponsored by Blaine High School and endorsed by Anoka-Hennepin orchestra teachers. Anoka-Hennepin families and community members are encouraged to attend this free event.
The public is invited to attend a free holiday community concert performance by the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. at Blaine High School.
The orchestra, conducted by Mark Russell Smith, will perform the following musical pieces:
"Brandenburg Concerto No. 3" (Bach)
"Dumbarton Oaks" (Stravinsky)
"Air" (Bach)
"Christmas Concerto" (Corelli)
"Winter" from The Four Seasons (Vivaldi)
"Emperor Waltz" (Strauss, arr. Schoenberg)
Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Call 651-291-1144 or visit: www.thespco.org to make reservations. The Blaine High School auditorium has approximately 900 seats, so make reservations as soon as possible.
Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. in Blaine.
8. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
Judges are needed for the Anoka-Hennepin School District's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair on Saturday, Jan. 12 at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. N.E., in Blaine. The fair is the largest in the state with more than 1,000 participants, and is open to all K-12 students and seeks volunteers to judge projects and coach students.
You don't need to be a science expert to be a judge! Judges can register for the morning session, afternoon session or both. Judges for grades 6 through 12 projects check in at 7:45 a.m., attend a one-hour training session and then judge and complete scoring by 11:15 a.m. Judges for kindergarten through grade 5 check in and attend a half-hour training session from 1 to 1:30 p.m. and give feedback to students from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
To register as a judge, go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/stemfair. For more information, contact Kevin Molohon at 763-506-7084 or at: Kevin.Molohon@anoka.k12.mn.us.
9. Anoka-Hennepin teachers awarded Art Educators of Minnesota art educator of the year awards
Two Anoka-Hennepin teachers were recognized for exemplary service and professional dedication last weekend at the annual Art Educators of Minnesota (AEM) fall conference.
Diane Gronewold, Anoka High School, and Ronda Dick, Ramsey Elementary School, were awarded the AEM Secondary Art Educator of the Year award and AEM Elementary Art Educator of the Year award, respectively. Gronewold and Dick were introduced at the awards ceremony by Kevan Nitzberg, art teacher at Anoka High School and past president of AEM.
Gronewold has been an art educator for 27 years in Minnesota and Iowa. Beyond her normal teaching duties at Anoka High School, Gronewald has helped to orchestrate the weekly after school Studio Arts program, which she also facilitates.
Gronewold is also a working artist and has several works in collections in the U.S. and England, said Nitzberg. She has also served as a Minnesota High School League Visual Arts Competition Judge for and worked on curriculum writing teams in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.
Dick has taught at several elementary schools in the Anoka-Hennepin School District and has participated in multi-age, K-12 art education for several home school groups throughout the Twin Cities. She developed custom-fit curriculum for each group, said Nitzberg.
Dick has also participated in curriculum writing and implementation teams, worked in the Gifted and Talented program and facilitated other educational programs, including coaching for the Odyssey of the Mind/Destination Imagination program.
Elementary School News and Events:
10. Mathematical pumpkins at Adams Elementary School
Adams Elementary School students in Coon Rapids used pumpkins to learn math concepts on Halloween. Students used the pumpkins to illustrate concepts like circumference, place value and estimation.
Each classroom in the school received a pumpkin, and students cut the pumpkins open and counted all the seeds. The students counted the pumpkin's seeds - some had 500 or more!
The fifth-grade students compiled the data from all the classrooms and charted the pumpkin data, including weight and number of seeds. They found a correlation - the heavier the pumpkin, the more seeds it has. They presented their findings to the entire school in a video announcement.
Principal Libby White said that exercises like this make math relevant and fun, and that helps students learn better. "The kids loved it," White said. The pumpkin activity was in place of a costume celebration, and most classes did the activity during their fall parties.
Click on the following link to view a photo of the event in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18921.
11. Riverview Specialty School students participate in "Girls in Science - Saturday Science Camp"
Fifty-two fourth and fifth grade girls from Riverview Specialty School for Math and Environmental Science learned that they can change the world through careers in math and science on Saturday, Nov. 3. The girls, along with several Riverview parents and staff, attended the "Girls in Science: Changing the World" event at Bethel University, which is designed to help students envision potential careers in the science fields.
Students had the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities related to engineering, life science and systems studies, such as creating polymer (plastic), discovering living organisms in pond water, identifying small mammals in habitats and performing math modeling with Bethel students majoring in science, math and elementary education.
Students also heard from a panel of professional women in science careers with metro-area companies and Bethel women professors in science and math on how their experiences in math and science led them to their career choices. Featured speaker Kimberly Chaffin, Ph.D., senior principal scientist and technical fellow at Medtronic, encouraged Riverview girls to start thinking differently.
"You can be a doctor, a scientist, or an engineer!" said Chaffin. "The stereotypes tell us that you have to be old and wrinkled and preferably have facial hair to succeed. Start thinking differently."
Riverview students attended the event for free, courtesy of a $10,000 grant from Honeywell. The grant is designed to help close an emerging gender gap in science performance at the school-one that is typical, according to Patricia Paulson, Ph.D., Bethel science education professor who coordinated the science camp, in conjunction with Linda Williams-Tuenge, Riverview principal, and Sue Roth, Riverview curriculum integrator.
"Test results show girls equal to boys at fourth grade but dropping off in eighth grade and significantly below boys by grade 12 in these areas," said Paulson. "We believe that by giving young girls a 'can do' message prior to middle school, and providing actual role models, we may help change their vision of their future career path."
"As a specialty school in math and environmental science, we are consistently evaluating how all of our students are performing in those areas," said Williams-Tuenge. "Being aware of gender equity, Riverview staff strive to provide leadership opportunities for girls at this age that will encourage and strengthen their interest and passion in math and science throughout their educational years and into the future."
In addition to the Saturday science event, the Honeywell grant also allowed Riverview girls to visit with astronaut Sally Ride last summer and will fund a similar day at Bethel for third grade students in the spring of 2008.
Click here to view photos of this event in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18926
High School News and Events:
12. Champlin Park High School "So You Think You Can Dance" performance Nov. 17
The public is invited to attend Champlin Park High School's "So You Think You Can Dance" performance on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 11 a.m. The event, sponsored by the Champlin Park High School troupe dance team, will feature performances from local high school dance teams and studio performers.
Tickets are $5 in advance or $7 at the door ($5 at the door for students). For more information, contact Joann Sanford at: jsanford_01@msn.com. Champlin Park High School is located at 6025 109th Ave. N., in Champlin.
13. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater fall productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
"You Can't Take It With You"
Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 18 at 2 p.m.
Guess who's coming to dinner? When it's the Sycamore home, the guests could be just about anyone. The eccentric, free-spirited Sycamores take in everyone from tipsy Broadway showgirls to displaced members of the Russian aristocracy. When daughter Alice introduces her uptight fiancé and his parents to her unconventional relatives, side-splitting chaos ensues. From literary luminaries Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman comes a comic classic of the American stage, a winner of both the Pulitzer Prize and an Academy Award, and a fun-loving favorite for generations of American audiences.
Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Call 763-506-8491 for more information. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
Blaine High School
"The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe"
Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.
Nov. 17 at 7 p.m.
Nov. 18 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for students and seniors and children under the age of three are free. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
Coon Rapids High School
"A Christmas Carol"
Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance)
Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Dec. 6 at 7 p.m.
Dec. 7 at 7 p.m.
Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Coon Rapids High School FCCLA students and staff will provide childcare during the following performances (donations are accepted and reservations are required):
• Saturday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.
To reserve a seat or make a reservation for childcare, call the Coon Rapids High School box office at 763-506-7291. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd., N.W. in Coon Rapids.
14. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
15. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
16. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
17. High school career centers offer career days and tours
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
18. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. They are presented by Mike Branch, Focus Financial. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
• Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Blaine High School
• Nov. 13 from 7 to 9 p.m.
• Dec. 11 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Champlin Park High School
• Jan. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Coon Rapids High School
• Jan. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m.
19. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: Mar. 27, 2008, at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
20. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Veterinary Medicine, Nov. 15
Dentistry, Feb. 7.
Pharmacy, Feb. 29.
Medicine, Mar. 27.
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18.
Nursing, TBA
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
21. Andover High School marching band ends season on a high note
The Andover High School marching band recently ended its season on a high note earning total of four first place awards, four outstanding winds awards, three outstanding color guard awards and two outstanding drum major awards in seven competitions.
The school performed its show "Electronica" at the following state-wide and regional field show competitions: Eastview High School Marching Band Festival, Waseca Marching Classic, Coon Rapids Cardinal Fall Classic, Irondale High School Music of the Knight, Festival of Bands USA in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Prairie Colors Marching Band Festival and Rosemount Marching Band Festival. Anywhere from 10 to 30 bands competed in any given show, said Brent Comeau, Andover marching band director.
Andover's season officially ended in late October with an indoor show and banquet at Andover High School.
22. Andover High School student elected as state DECA officer
Sara Dannenberg, senior at Andover High School, was recently elected to the Minnesota Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) board as vice president of communications. Dannenberg is the first student from Andover High School to serve on the Minnesota DECA board. She represents DECA District Four, which includes Anoka-Hennepin, Mounds View, Irondale, Forest Lake, Chisago City, Elk River, Rogers and Zimmerman.
DECA is a career and technical student organization geared toward the interests of future leaders in marketing, merchandising, and management. It works to enhance the education of all students with interests in marketing, management or entrepreneurship while meeting local & state initiatives.
Community Education News and Events:
23. Classes now available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
PARENTS FOREVER
A Minnesota Supreme Court-approved parent education program offered in three, four-hour classes covering: impact of divorce on adults, impact of divorce on children (two parts), legal issues and role of mediation in divorce, money issues in divorce and pathways to a new life. Childcare is not available for this class. Registration fee includes a $30 materials fee.
Section 3
• Saturdays Nov. 17, Dec. 1 and 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
• $ 120 per person
For more information on this class, click on the following link: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=194135&sc_id=1189178881.
NOTE TO PARENTS OF KIDS WITH AUTISM
Join other parents of children and youth demonstrating characteristics of autism spectrum disorder. Grow in stress management, communication, and empowerment though small group and personal reflection. View your child relative to home, school and society as you look at your own challenges in your parenting role. Instructor: Mary Z. McGrath. Class fee: $9 per person.
• Tues., Nov. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St.., Anoka
Register for classes by phone, 763-506-1278, or online at: www.discovercommunityed.com. Classes without a fee must call 763-506-1587 or fax 763-506-1268 to register.
24. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
One of the scariest words to a parent: "math" - Whether your child needs help with math, your job requires more math, you need to brush up for entering post-secondary education, or you need math skills to GET a job, contact Metro North Adult Basic Ed.
Metro North ABE offers free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation, English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship. Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-506-4879 or email: patrice.adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out:
25. Johnsville Elementary School raises $1,575 for UNICEF
Johnsville Elementary School recently raised more than $1,575 for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in a school-wide collection during Halloween. The school tripled its goal of raising $500. The project was spearheaded by Johnsville second graders and teachers.
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Backpack Online #10 - Rumor Alert, Reminder to vote on Nov. 6 and Anoka-Hennepin Parent Legislative Team seeks members. |
Rumor Alert!
1. I heard the cost of the new levy will be an extra $600 a year for the owner of an average home in the district.
Levy Questions of the Week
2. I was very surprised to learn that my polling place for this election is different from where I voted last time. Have other polling places changed or just mine?
3. If a voter decides not to vote on some of the ballot questions, does it count as a vote of No for the questions for which neither Yes or No are marked?
4. Why doesn't the district make a better effort to conserve energy?
Upcoming Events:
5. Choice Fair Nov. 3 will showcase special schools open to all students
6. Election 2007: Remember to vote on Nov. 6 and frequently asked questions regarding voting
7. Election 2007: View the "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum on cable TV or DVD
8. Franklin Elementary School Veteran's Day collection through Nov. 7
9. Anoka-Hennepin Parent Legislative Team seeks members; introductory session Nov. 8
General News and Events:
10. Free meth prevention program "Look Smart, Don't Start" for families Nov. 15
11. AHEF Northern Stars Beach Ball Nov. 17 (link)
12. Public hearing on Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Program Nov. 26
13. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline Dec. 7 (link)
14. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
15. Get Fit, Get Right with online program from Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation
Elementary School News and Events:
16. Sand Creek Elementary School featured on KARE 11's "What's Cool In Your School"
Middle School News and Events:
17. Jackson Middle School to present "The Pied Piper" Nov. 15 and 16
High School News and Events:
18. Coon Rapids High School German club "Oktoberfest" event Nov. 15
19. Champlin Park High School "So You Think You Can Dance" performance Nov. 17
20. Upcoming high school theater productions (updated)
21. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
22. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
23. High school career centers open to the public (link)
24. High school career centers offer career days and tours
25. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
26. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
27. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
28. Blaine High School student elected to state BPA position
Community Education News and Events:
29. Community Education's Power Hour featured on KARE 11's "OnLIVE"
30. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
31. Classes now available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
32. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
33. Andover High School students and staff participate in "Walk for Hope"
34. Andover High School HOSA students raise $500 for Autism Speaks Foundation
35. STEP collects 100 coats for "Coats for Kids"
Rumor Alert!
Backpack Online readers can view previous rumors and levy-related rumors in the Rumor Alert archives on the district Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/rumoralert and select "Rumors about the 2007 levy."
(1) Rumor: I heard the cost of the new levy will be an extra $600 a year for the owner of an average home in the district. That's more than the district's materials said it would be. They are hiding the true cost.
The facts: The additional tax cost of the Anoka-Hennepin School District levy and bond proposal would not be $600 a year for a home valued at $250,000, it would be $330 per year, or approximately $28 per month, if all four questions on the ballot were approved. This is in addition to the $22 per month homeowners are currently paying for the levy approved in 2002 that is now expiring. As stated in the district's levy mailing, Your Schools, Your Community, Your Choice, the total cost would be $594 a year, which includes the new amount plus the tax people have been paying for the levy voters approved in 2002.
A tax calculator is available on the district Web site at: www.anoka.k12.mn.us. Thank you citizens for your interest in these critical issues.
Levy Questions of the Week
Backpack Online readers can view previous questions and responses and levy-related questions in the Question of the Week archive. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/question and select a topic. For levy-related questions, visit the "Levy Q & A" sections on the district Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/levy2007 and use the buttons in the left hand index to navigate through sections.
(2) Question: I was very surprised to learn that my polling place for this election is different from where I voted last time. Have other polling places changed or just mine?
Response: Yes, a number of polling places have changed since the last levy election. Residents can check their polling place in several ways:
• Look at the mailer called "Your Schools, Your Community, Your Choice" that you received in the mail within the last 10 days. Your polling place will be printed in red ink underneath the return address.
• Go to the Secretary of State Web site at: www.sos.state.mn.us. Click on Election Center, then on Where do I vote?
• Call Anoka County Elections, 763-323-5275 (Hennepin County residents also call Anoka County for this election).
NOTE: Do not check your city web site for polling place information. Not all city sites have updated information.
(3) Question: If a voter decides not to vote on some of the ballot questions, does it count as a vote of No for the questions for which neither Yes or No are marked?
Response: No, only the items marked will be counted.
(4) Question: Why doesn't the district make a better effort to conserve energy?
Response: The district has made a great effort to conserve energy. Here are some of the things it has done in the last few years:
• By being willing to cut back on electricity usage at high demand times, the district reduced its electric rate by 24 percent. This saved the district $380,000 last year alone.
• More efficient light fixtures have been installed.
• Sensors have been installed in classrooms, gymnasiums and cafeterias to automatically shut off lights and turn the heat down in rooms when they are unoccupied.
• More energy efficient ventilation systems are being installed in older schools. They will improve the air quality in schools by meeting updated codes for the amount of fresh air they bring into the building while at the same time achieving savings in energy use.
• School boilers have been retrofitted with automatically controlled day/night set back systems that sense the indoor and outdoor temperatures and adjust the boilers accordingly.
Upcoming Events:
5. Choice Fair Nov. 3 will showcase special schools open to all students
Students and parents interested in exploring new educational opportunities for kindergarten through grade 12 are invited to attend the Northwest Suburban Integration School District (NWSISD) Choice Fair on Saturday, Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Maple Grove Community Center in Maple Grove. This exciting event will feature performances and presentations from NWSISD magnet programs, as well as activities for children and informational booths where students and parents can pick up information and applications and speak with representatives from the schools.
Magnet schools provide students with learning adventures that take them beyond the traditional instructional experience while helping them open their minds and reach their true potential. They are designed around specialized themes that appeal to students' interests and aptitudes: Visual, Performing, Literary and Technological/Media Arts; Science, Math and Technology; and International Baccalaureate. Free transportation will be provided to students in the seven districts who apply to and are accepted to a magnet school through the NWSISD lottery.
NWSISD was created in 2001 in response to a new state desegregation rule. It has three goals: increase student achievement, create more educational opportunities for students, and create more integrated learning environments.
All students residing within the seven NWSISD member districts (Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose, Elk River, Fridley, Osseo and Rockford) can apply to any of the nine NWSISD magnet school programs. The application period for the 2007-08 school year begins on Nov. 4. Applications are due to the NWSISD magnet office on Jan. 15. Application forms are available to download in the district's document center at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=27200&catfilter=11714.
For more information call 763-450-1304 or go to: www.nws.k12.mn.us. The Maple Grove Community Center is located at 12951 Weaver Lake Rd. in Maple Grove.
6. Election 2007: Remember to vote on Nov. 6 and frequently asked questions regarding voting
Voter registration
Voter registration takes place as usual in a citizen's city or county of residence. As always, people may register at the polls with proper identification.
Polling places
Polling places are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Absentee ballots
You can still vote by absentee ballot if you are unable to go to the polls on election day. For information on voting by absentee ballot, call Anoka County Elections at 763-323-5275. Anoka County, because of their contract for this election, will process absentee ballots for all Anoka-Hennepin voters, including those in Hennepin County. Click here to download an absentee ballot.
Have you checked where you vote in this election?
A number of polling places have changed since the last levy election. Fewer polling places are open than in a state or national election to save money. Before you head out to vote, make sure you know your polling place location for this election. Residents can check their polling place in several ways:
* Look at the mailer called "Your Schools, Your Community, Your Choice" that you received in the mail within the last 10 days. Your precinct and the name and address of your polling place will be printed in red ink underneath the return address.
* Go to the Secretary of State Web site at: www.sos.state.mn.us. Click on Election Center, then on Where do I vote?
* Call Anoka County Elections, 763-323-5275 (Hennepin County residents also call Anoka County for this election).
NOTE: Do not check your city Web site for polling place information. Not all city sites have updated information.
7. Election 2007: View the "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum on cable TV or DVD
If you missed the "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum on Oct. 23, you can now catch it on local cable. Cable channel 18, which is available in most areas of the district, will rebroadcast the event daily at 3:30 p.m.
If you don't have cable access, you may also check out a DVD copy of the event. A limited number of copies are available to check out from the district's Parent Involvement Department for a 24-hour period. Contact the Parent Involvement Resource Center (PIRC) at 763-506-1567. PIRC is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during school days.
The "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum was held at the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Service Center in Coon Rapids. The following candidates participated in the event:
ELECTION DISTRICT TWO
Serving the communities of Blaine and Coon Rapids, including all or part of the attendance areas of Blaine and Coon Rapids high schools, Roosevelt and Northdale middle schools; Adams, Johnsville, Jefferson, Madison and University Avenue elementary schools:
Marci Anderson
Dan Cook (incumbent)
ELECTION DISTRICT FIVE
Serving the communities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids and Fridley including all or part of the attendance areas of Champlin Park High School, Evergreen Park, Hoover, L.O. Jacob, Mississippi, Monroe, Oxbow Creek and Riverview elementary schools:
Warren Harder
Scott Wenzel (incumbent)
The event was co-sponsored by the Anoka-Blaine-Champlin League of Women Voters, the Parent Legislative Team of Anoka-Hennepin and Working Partnerships. All three organizations are non-partisan and support citizens' participation in American democracy.
8. Franklin Elementary School Veteran's Day collection through Nov. 7
In honor of Veteran's Day, Franklin Elementary School will be accepting donations of reading glasses, personal care products, stationary, pens, stamps, phone cards, new socks and underwear (for men or women) to distribute to veterans receiving care at the V.A. Medical Center in St. Cloud. Items can be made at the school from Nov. 1 through 7. The Franklin K-Kids will assist with the packaging of materials for delivery.
Franklin Elementary School is located at 215 W. Main St. in Anoka.
9. Anoka-Hennepin Parent Legislative Team seeks members; introductory session Nov. 8
Attention parents! Did you know that the Anoka-Hennepin School District has a Parent Legislative Team (PLT)? The PLT is a parent-led, non-partisan group that advocates for improved education funding for children in the district. Potential new members are invited to attend an introductory session meeting on Thursday, Nov. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka. The regular meeting begins at 7 p.m.
The team works to inform and lobby the 18 legislators who represent the district and educate them on the specific, evolving needs of Anoka-Hennepin. The team also works to generate education funding for Anoka-Hennepin students that is comparable to the funding for other metro districts. The group typically meets once or twice a month during the school year.
Other PLT activities include establishing priorities and accompanying strategies, hosting an annual meeting with area legislators, making trips to the Capitol and devising methods to educate district parents on legislative issues pertinent to Anoka-Hennepin, such as e-mail communications and open forums.
"The Parent Legislative Team is an excellent way to advocate for our children and helping to ensure that they will be educated to reach their full potential," said Tom Miller, PLT member. "PLT participation is a wonderful tool for learning about school funding, gaining an appreciation of the excellent work done in our schools and participating in our democracy."
The PLT welcomes new members at any time. Interested parents can also participate in the Parent Legislative Network (PLN). The PLN is a group of parents from Anoka-Hennepin schools who have agreed to make personal contacts to targeted legislators in support of specific bills and actions that will benefit all students.
PLT members are also available to speak to Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO) and similar parent groups.
For more information, visit: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/parentinvolvement, or contact Tom Miller at 763-421-9277. Contact Tammy Schmitz, Parent Involvement specialist, at 763-506-1216 or at: tammy.schmitz@anoka.k12.mn.us to attend the introductory session.
General News and Events:
10. Free meth prevention program "Look Smart, Don't Start" for families Nov. 15
The Anoka-Hennepin School District, Anoka County Meth Task Force and Mercy-Unity Hospitals are partnering to offer a meth prevention program, "Look Smart, Don't Start" on Thursday, Nov. 15 at Oak View Middle School cafetorium from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The event is free and no registration is required. A prize drawing will be held.
Featuring speaker Michael George, the event will cover prevention tips for parents and students, resources for help or questions, the impact of meth on users, their families and taxpayers.
George, an assistant principal at Coon Rapids High School, learned about meth's impact while experiencing his sister and brother-in-law's struggles with addiction. George decided to help others spot the signs of meth use and get help before it's too late.
For more information on the event, call 763-422-6970. Oak View Middle School is located at 15400 Hanson Blvd. in Andover.
11. AHEF Northern Stars Beach Ball Nov. 17 (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18170.
12. Public hearing on Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Program Nov. 26
The Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Parent Committee and Indian Education staff invite citizens to share their ideas on the Indian Education Program at a public hearing on Monday, Nov. 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St. in Anoka.
Public comment from the meeting will be considered as Indian Education Parent Committee revises and strengthens the Indian Education Program for the district.
Those who call ahead will be heard first, but others may also speak to the committee. There will be a three-minute time limit. Speakers may provide a written summary of their remarks if they wish. Refreshments will be served.
For more information or to be placed on the agenda, contact Barry Scanlan at 763-506-1280 or at: Barry.Scanlan@anoka.k12.mn.us.
13. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline Dec. 7 (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18168.
14. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
Judges are needed for the Anoka-Hennepin School District's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair on Saturday, Jan. 12 at Blaine High School, 12555 University Ave. N.E., in Blaine. The fair is the largest in the state with more than 1,000 participants, and is open to all K-12 students and seeks volunteers to judge projects and coach students.
You don't need to be a science expert to be a judge! Judges can register for the morning session, afternoon session or both. Judges for grades 6 through 12 projects check in at 7:45 a.m., attend a one-hour training session and then judge and complete scoring by 11:15 a.m. Judges for kindergarten through grade 5 check in and attend a half-hour training session from 1 to 1:30 p.m. and give feedback to students from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
To register as a judge, go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/stemfair. For more information, contact Kevin Molohon at 763-506-7084 or at: Kevin.Molohon@anoka.k12.mn.us.
15. Get Fit, Get Right with online program from Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation
The following program is endorsed by Anoka-Hennepin's Parent Involvement Program. The Anoka-Hennepin School District's healthy school initiative promotes the development of healthy living habits through nutrition and exercise education for students and their families. Parents and their children are encouraged to participate.
The Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation recently launched a new online program called, "Get Fit, Get Right." The program is an interactive online intervention for overweight teens that are at risk for diabetes or heart disease. Through real-life success stories, video stories, blogs and chats teens learn how to change their lives while they get fit and get right.
The program targets youth ages 13-18 and features a faux "reality show" format to deliver peer-to-peer content from six overweight teens, an online coaching feature to monitor and encourage physical activity and an online community to provide peer support.
A key feature of the program is streamed video of teens participating in physical activities such as hip-hop dance classes and personal training sessions - and personal stories from teens for teens. Nutrition and physical activity resources, such as articles and tips, are available on the program Web site.
For more information on the program, visit: http://www.getfitgetright.org/
Elementary School News and Events:
16. Sand Creek Elementary School featured on KARE 11's "What's Cool In Your School"
Sand Creek Elementary School was recently featured on KARE 11's "What's Cool In Your School" morning segment for special things going at the school:
Oct. 16 was National Child Hunger Day. To mark the event, the Minneapolis Chapter of the American Culinary Federation sent chefs throughout the metro to teach children how to make their own healthy breakfast.
Chef Michael Grieb told Sand Creek Elementary third graders in Coon Rapids why they need a healthy breakfast to start their day, and then guided the students through the creation of their own yogurt fruit parfaits.
Principal Paul Anderson says the Anoka-Hennepin School District works to promote healthy lifestyles for students through its wellness policy.
"What a fun, interactive way to teach the kids how simple it is to make a breakfast all by themselves," said Anderson.
To view the video segment for Sand Creek Elementary School, go to: www.kare11.com, click on Education in the left hand index and then click on Cool In School.
Middle School News and Events:
17. Jackson Middle School to present "The Pied Piper" Nov. 15 and 16
The public is invited to attend Jackson Middle School's production of the musical "The Pied Piper" on Thursday, Nov. 15 and Friday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. in the school's gymnasium.
The performances will feature 60 sixth-grade students singing and dancing as rats invade their beautiful town of Hamelin. Come and see the Pied Piper lead the nasty rats away and run into trouble when the townspeople refuse to pay him his fee.
Event admission is $2 for students and $3 for adults. Jackson Middle School is located at 6000 109th Ave. N. in Champlin.
High School News and Events:
18. Coon Rapids High School German club "Oktoberfest" event Nov. 15
The public is invited to attend Coon Rapids High School's "Oktoberfest" celebration on Thursday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. in the school auditorium. The event is hosted by the Coon Rapids High School German club and will feature German music from the Bavarian Musikmeisters band, German food and fun.
A bratwurst supper will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the door and are $5 for adults and $3 for students. All proceeds will benefit the 2008 German trip participants at Coon Rapids High School and the Coon Rapids High School German club. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd. N.W. in Coon Rapids.
19. Champlin Park High School "So You Think You Can Dance" performance Nov. 17
The public is invited to attend Champlin Park High School's "So You Think You Can Dance" performance on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 11 a.m. The event, sponsored by the Champlin Park High School troupe dance team, will feature performances from local high school dance teams and studio performers.
Tickets are $5 in advance or $7 at the door ($5 at the door for students). For more information, contact Joann Sanford at: jsanford_01@msn.com. Champlin Park High School is located at 6025 109th Ave. N., in Champlin.
20. Upcoming high school theater productions
It's time to get ready for another great season of high school theater fall productions! School productions, times and prices will be posted as they become available.
Andover High School
"You Can't Take It With You"
Nov. 9 at 7:30 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance)
Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 11 at 2 p.m.
Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 18 at 2 p.m.
Guess who's coming to dinner? When it's the Sycamore home, the guests could be just about anyone. The eccentric, free-spirited Sycamores take in everyone from tipsy Broadway showgirls to displaced members of the Russian aristocracy. When daughter Alice introduces her uptight fiancé and his parents to her unconventional relatives, side-splitting chaos ensues. From literary luminaries Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman comes a comic classic of the American stage, a winner of both the Pulitzer Prize and an Academy Award, and a fun-loving favorite for generations of American audiences.
Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Call 763-506-8491 for more information. Andover High School is located at 2115 Andover Blvd. in Andover.
Anoka High School
"Blood Brothers"
Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 4 at 2 p.m.
Blood Brothers is Willy Russell's award-winning tale of Liverpudlian twins separated at birth. Though they grew up apart and lead very different lives, fate decrees that their paths will cross again, in both friendship and anger. Hailed as one of the best musicals of all time - scooping up no fewer than four awards for best musical in London and seven Tony Award nominations on Broadway - Blood Brothers is currently booking into its 20th year in London. Recommended for ages 13 and up.
Ticket prices for adults are $10 for reserved tickets and $8 for general admission balcony tickets. Ticket prices for students and senior citizens are $5 for reserved tickets and $4 for balcony tickets.
Call 763-506-6439 (Monday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m.) for more information. Anoka High School is located at 3939 Seventh Ave. N. in Anoka.
Blaine High School
"The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe"
Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.
Nov. 17 at 7 p.m.
Nov. 18 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for students and seniors and children under the age of three are free. Blaine High School is located at 12555 University Ave. N.E. in Blaine.
Champlin Park High School
"Man of La Mancha"
Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 4 at 2:30 p.m.
Nov. 9 at 7:30 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance)
Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 11 at 2:30 p.m.
Come and dream the impossible dream with Don Quixote and Sancho in the musical Man of La Mancha; where we learn to see the world not as it is, but how it ought to be.
Seating is general admission. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors, and go on sale one hour prior to each performance. Champlin Park High School is located at 6025 109th Ave. N.E. in Brooklyn Park.
Coon Rapids High School
"A Christmas Carol"
Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance)
Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Dec. 6 at 7 p.m.
Dec. 7 at 7 p.m.
Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Coon Rapids High School FCCLA students and staff will provide childcare during the following performances (donations are accepted and reservations are required):
• Saturday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.
To reserve a seat or make a reservation for childcare, call the Coon Rapids High School box office at 763-506-7291. Coon Rapids High School is located at 2340 Northdale Blvd., N.W. in Coon Rapids.
21. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
For upcoming sports schedules and locations, go to: http://www.nwsconference.org and click on Calendar.
College and Career Planning Events:
22. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18147.
23. High school career centers open to the public (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18190.
24. High school career centers offer career days and tours
The Anoka-Hennepin Career Placement Specialists work together to develop career days. These are opportunities for students to "try on" different occupations by visiting the workplace. A variety of experiences are available. Contact your career center specialist for more information about tours available at your student's high school.
25. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
Here are some upcoming financial aid workshop dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers. They are presented by Mike Branch, Focus Financial. No registration is necessary to attend.
Anoka High School
• Feb. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Blaine High School
• Nov. 13 from 7 to 9 p.m.
• Dec. 11 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Champlin Park High School
• Jan. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Coon Rapids High School
• Jan. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m.
26. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
Here are some upcoming college and job fair dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS AT ANOKA-HENNEPIN HIGH SCHOOLS
• Anoka-Hennepin College Fair: Mar. 27, 2008, at Blaine High School from 7:45 to 10:45 a.m. and Champlin Park High School from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
27. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Here are some upcoming career session dates from Anoka-Hennepin's Career Centers:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA "SCRUBS, GLOVES AND MICROSCOPES" (SGM)
Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes (SGM) is a hands-on health career exploration opportunity for high school students currently in grades nine through 12. Students can explore six different health careers during the 2007-08 school year.
SGM provides students with the opportunity to briefly experience life in the health profession they wish to explore. Each half-day session lasts about three to four hours. During each session, students will learn from graduate students and professionals in the field, participate in a hands-on experience and discover important next steps for pursuing the featured health career.
PROGRAM DATES:
Veterinary Medicine, Nov. 15
Dentistry, Feb. 7.
Pharmacy, Feb. 29.
Medicine, Mar. 27.
Physical Therapy, Apr. 18.
Nursing, TBA
For program details and application information, visit the SGM Web site at: http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html.
Student Success:
28. Blaine High School student elected to state BPA position
Tiffany Wicken, senior at Blaine High School, was recently elected as one of six students from across the state to serve as a Minnesota Business Professionals of America (BPA) officer. Wicken was elected as BPA state executive secretary.
Wicken is now the ninth student from Blaine High School to be elected as a state officer in 11 years.
BPA is a co-curricular career and technical organization for middle school, high school and college students preparing for careers in business and information technology. Elected officers plan BPA conferences at their respected levels, which are comprised of local, state and national. Wicken will assist in planning the 2008 Minnesota Spring BPA Conference and represent Minnesota at the National Spring BPA Conference in May.
Community Education News and Events:
29. Community Education's Power Hour featured on KARE 11's "OnLIVE"
Community Education's Power Hour was recently featured on KARE 11's "OnLIVE" weekday segment.
The Power Hour program teaches students to make smart choices for healthy living and is offered to Anoka-Hennepin students after school through a collaboration between the district's Community Education Department and Allina's Mercy and Unity hospitals. The program is a part of the district's healthy school initiative and promotes the development of healthy living habits through nutrition and exercise education for elementary students and their families.
The program is now offered at 10 elementary schools in the district and was recognized with the following awards:
• Allina Hospitals and Clinics 2007 Healthy Community Award
• Minnesota Hospital Association 2006 Community Health Commitment Award - Mercy and Unity Hospitals - Large Hospital Category
• 2007 Anoka County Public Health Recognition Award
The program is also the recipient of a $10,000 grant from the General Mills Champions for Healthy Kids fund and has been selected to participate in the Youth Obesity Learning Collaborative on behalf of the Center for Disease Control and the Health Research and Education Trust.
To view the video segment for the Power Hour program, click on the following link: http://www.kare11.com/onlive/bodysoul/bodysoul_article.aspx?storyid=268540.
For more information on the program, contact Susan Nygaard at: susan.nygaard@anoka.k12.mn.us or at 763-506-1270.
30. What's new from Community Education Adult Learning
Whether we are ready or not, the holiday season will soon be upon us. We can help you prepare for a festive season with decorative touches, creative gift-giving ideas and tasty tidbits. Below are holiday-themed classes you won't want to miss. Check out all of the Adult Learning classes online at http://www.discovercommunityed.com.
Place the crowning touch on your home's décor with seasonal arrangements you've created along with wonderful creative arts for gift giving or enjoying yourself. Jump into the holidays with these upcoming classes:
Parent Child Holiday Ornaments
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7717
Fall's Bounty Centerpiece-Floral Design Workshop
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7725
Fused Glass Votive Holder
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7749
Wire Wrapped Bracelet
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7407
Holiday Card Workshop
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7398
Thanksgiving Floral Arrangement
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7510
Holiday Wreath and Centerpiece
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7513
Holiday Crystal Jewelry
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7756
Parent/Child Desert Garden
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7712
Fused Glass Ornaments
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7748
Three-Tiered Holiday Suncatcher
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7800
Ornament Extravaganza
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7772
Looking for flavor in your holiday? What you learn in our culinary classes will delight guests and bring cheer to your holiday entertaining. These in-demand classes go quickly - enroll today!
Holiday Party Foods
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7346
Classic Cookies
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7360
Lefse
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7813
Wine Dinner
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7338
Holiday Friendship Tea
http://www.discovercommunityed.com/insight/registry/classinfo.asp?courseID=7335
31. Classes now available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
PARENTS FOREVER
A Minnesota Supreme Court-approved parent education program offered in three, four-hour classes covering: impact of divorce on adults, impact of divorce on children (two parts), legal issues and role of mediation in divorce, money issues in divorce and pathways to a new life. Childcare is not available for this class. Registration fee includes a $30 materials fee.
Section 2
• Saturday, Nov. 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
• $ 120 per person
Section 3
• Saturdays Nov. 17, Dec. 1 and 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Anoka-Hennepin Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
• $ 120 per person
For more information on this class, click on the following link: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=194135&sc_id=1189178881.
ENHANCING YOUR CHILD'S SELF ESTEEM
We hear a lot of references to self-esteem. What is it, really? Learn about the nature of self-esteem, how caregivers can help children develop it, and how adults can positively affect children's overall self-concept. Instructor: Julie Koritz. Class fee: $9 per person.
• Thurs., Nov. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
I'M SO SAD: KIDS AND DEPRESSION
Childhood depression is different from the normal "blues" and everyday emotions that occur as a child develops. Yet, just because a child seems depressed or sad, does not necessarily mean they have depression. Learn about childhood and teen depression and it's signs and symptoms. Instructor: Pat Bryan, L.I.C.S.W. Class fee: $9 per person.
• Mon., Nov. 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St., Anoka
NOTE TO PARENTS OF KIDS WITH AUTISM
Join other parents of children and youth demonstrating characteristics of autism spectrum disorder. Grow in stress management, communication, and empowerment though small group and personal reflection. View your child relative to home, school and society as you look at your own challenges in your parenting role. Instructor: Mary Z. McGrath. Class fee: $9 per person.
• Tues., Nov. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Staff Development Center, 2727 N. Ferry St.., Anoka
Register for classes by phone, 763-506-1278, or online at: www.discovercommunityed.com. Classes without a fee must call 763-506-1587 or fax 763-506-1268 to register.
32. Adults - improve your reading, writing and math skills through Metro North Adult Basic Education
One of the scariest words to a parent: "math" - Whether your child needs help with math, your job requires more math, you need to brush up for entering post-secondary education, or you need math skills to GET a job, contact Metro North Adult Basic Ed.
Metro North ABE offers free classes for adults (ages 16 and above, not currently enrolled in school) in the following areas: reading, writing and math, GED preparation, English language classes (ESL), adult diploma, family literacy and U.S. Citizenship. Metro North ABE classes are free and offered year round with day and night classes in various Twin Cities area locations. Professional staff teaches classes with volunteer assistance. If you know of someone needing classes, have them call 763-783-4870.
Staff needed for North Metro ABE
Day and evening opportunities are available for licensed staff to substitute at various locations. Call 763-506-4879 or email: patrice.adams@anoka.k12.mn.us for more information on substituting.
Metro North ABE is a consortium partnership among the following school districts: Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Centennial, Columbia Heights, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and St. Francis. Metro North ABE provides basic adult education programming to eligible adult learners throughout the nine-school district geographic area through the collaborative use of federal, state and local resources.
The Metro North ABE consortium is governed by a board made up of the Community Education Directors from the nine-member districts. Visit the Metro North ABE Web site at: http://www.metronorthabe.org.
Reaching Out:
33. Andover High School students and staff participate in "Walk for Hope"
Several Andover High School students and staff participated in the Alexandra House's third annual "Walk for Hope: Steps to End Domestic Violence" event on Oct. 6 at Bunker Hills Regional Park. The goal of the event is to raise funds to help end domestic violence. Andover students and staff collected approximately $1,000 through donations, which was donated to the Alexandra House shelter.
34. Andover High School HOSA students raise $500 for Autism Speaks Foundation
Andover High School Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) students recently collected $500 for the Autism Speaks Foundation through participation in a walk on Oct. 6 at Lake Nokomis. Autism is a neurodevelopment disorder that affects one in 100 children born today. The group is planning for another fundraiser this spring.
35. STEP collects 100 coats for "Coats for Kids"
Secondary Technical Educational Program (STEP) students recently held their first school coat drive during the months of September and October and collected a total of 100 coats as part of WCCO's "Coats for Kids" drive. STEP Emergency Medical Careers (EMC) students spearheaded the project.
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Backpack Online #9 - Rumor Alert, Superintendent's Column and Madison Elementary School celebrates 40th birthday. |
Rumor Alert!
1. I have heard that "Levy Yes" yard signs are only being given to parents in Anoka-Hennepin and not all residents.
2. I heard that Andover Elementary was going to change to grades one through six if the levy doesn't pass.
3. I've heard that the district pays $2,000 for Apple computers when Dell computers can be purchased for $1,200.
Levy Questions of the Week
4. I pay fees for my students to ride the bus and be on sports teams, if I just vote yes on question three and it passes, the fees go away! Is that correct?
5. Why is question two important?
6. If questions one and two are both needed to prevent cuts, what's the difference between them?
7. Questions about technology and the Microsoft settlement
Superintendent's Column
8. The outcome of the Nov. 6 election
Upcoming Events:
9. Encourage a student to apply for a Prudential Spirit of Community Award, deadline Oct. 31
General News and Events:
10. Choice Fair Nov. 3 will showcase special schools open to all students
11. Free meth prevention program "Look Smart, Don't Start" for families Nov. 15 (link)
12. AHEF Northern Stars Beach Ball Nov. 17 (link)
13. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline Dec. 7 (link)
14. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed (link)
15. View the Oct. 23 "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum on cable TV or DVD
16. Download a PDF copy of the district's Annual Report on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Performance
Elementary School News and Events:
17. Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School celebrates International Peace Day
18. Madison Elementary School celebrates 40th birthday
Middle School News and Events:
19. Northdale Middle School fiddle group selected to perform at National Association for Gifted Children national convention
High School News and Events:
20. Champlin Park High School "So You Think You Can Dance" performance Nov. 17
21. Commissioner Seagren visits Blaine High School
22. Upcoming high school theater productions (updated)
23. Look here for high school sports games and information (link)
College and Career Planning Events:
24. Free practice ACT sessions offered this fall and next spring (link)
25. High school career centers open to the public (link)
26. High school career centers offer career days and tours
27. Upcoming financial aid workshops for high school students
28. Upcoming college and job fair dates for high school students
29. Upcoming career sessions and tour days for high school students
Student Success:
30. Students earn AP Scholar designations (updated)
31. Blaine High School student attends HOSA leadership academy
32. Coon Rapids High School girls' cross-country team to compete in state tournament
33. Coon Rapids High School marching band wins grand champion at North Central Iowa Band Invitational
Community Education News and Events:
34. Classes now available through Anoka-Hennepin Parent Involvement
35. Discover the rewards of volunteering through Metro North Adult Basic Education
Reaching Out:
36. Franklin Elementary School Veteran's Day collection Nov. 1 through 7
37. Blaine High School BPA students collect coats for "Coats for Kids"
38. Dayton Elementary School fifth graders raise money for students in Uganda (update)
Rumor Alert!
Backpack Online readers can view previous rumors and levy-related rumors in the Rumor Alert archives on the district Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/rumoralert and select "Rumors about the 2007 levy."
(1) Rumor: I have heard that "Levy Yes" yard signs are only being given to parents in Anoka-Hennepin and not all residents. The purpose being that if more residents go to the polls, that are not parents, the levy will fail.
The facts: The Anoka-Hennepin School District is not involved in the creation, printing or distribution of lawn signs for the 2007 levy. Under state law, the district cannot encourage a yes or no vote on a ballot question. Its job is to provide information. Election lawn signs are created by an independent organization.
(2) Rumor: I heard that Andover Elementary was going to change to grades one through six if the levy doesn't pass. Is that true?
The facts: If questions 1 and 2 do not pass, it is possible that schools will be reconfigured. If the levy is not approved, the School Board would implement the list of cuts it approved in September. This includes closing up to six elementary schools, up to two middle schools and up to one high school. This will require a change in all attendance area boundaries. It may also change the grade structure at all levels: elementary to kindergarten through six (not grades one through six), middle school to seven through nine, high school to 10 through 12.
No decisions have been made yet about which schools will be closed if the levy is not approved. Many factors will be considered and the district is now in the process of gathering data to help make this decision. The list of potential cuts is available to view on the district Web site, Levy 2007 News section.
(3) Rumor: I've heard that the district pays $2,000 for Apple computers when Dell computers can be purchased for $1,200. Is that true?
The facts: The average cost of Apple computers purchased by the district is well below $1,000, according to Patrick Plant, director of technology. For example, the purchase price has been as low as $615, which was the cost of our current entry-levy classroom computers for kindergarten through grade eight.
In addition, the district also purchases PCs. Recently; six-year-old high school classroom computers were replaced with Dell computers at a cost of $815 each. The six-year-old computers were then repurposed to meet student needs elsewhere in the district, replacing even older computers.
Levy Questions of the Week
Backpack Online readers can view previous questions and responses and levy-related questions in the Question of the Week archive. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/question and select a topic. For levy-related questions, visit the "Levy Q & A" sections on the district Web site. Go to: www.anoka.k12.mn.us/levy2007 and use the buttons in the left hand index to navigate through sections.
(4) Question: I pay fees for my students to ride the bus and be on sports teams, if I just vote yes on question three and it passes, the fees go away! Is that correct?
Response: That's not quite true. Questions one and two must both pass for question three to pass. Even if more citizens vote yes than no on question three, it will not pass unless questions one and two have both passed. If all three levy questions pass, transportation fees will be eliminated and fees for high school athletics and activities will be cut in half.
(5) Question: Why is question two important?
Response: The revenue from question two is needed to prevent cuts. If question one passes but question two does not, the district would need to cut $12 million in staff, programs and services next year. This would be the largest amount ever cut in a single year in Anoka-Hennepin. It will result in eliminating dozens of teachers and other staff positions and closing some schools.
(6) Question: If questions one and two are both needed to prevent cuts, what's the difference between them?
Response: Question one renews the 2002 levy that is expiring and increases it by the level of inflation experienced over the last five years so it has the same purchasing power as it did when it was first approved.
Question two is additional revenue needed to fill the gap created by a funding shortfall from the state. The legislature has already approved state funding for 2008-09 and it falls $12 million short of covering district expenses. The School Board has pledged not to levy this amount, even if
approved by voters, unless it is necessary. In other words, if the legislature decides to increase funds for schools, the board may not need to levy the full amount allowed under question two.
(7) Question: The district received a big payout from the Microsoft settlement (millions of dollars). Where did that money go? Why does the district need more money for computers? A five to one ratio is excessive, extravagant and over the top. Elementary age children do not need computers. I'd like to vote yes for this but the school board did not give me the option of purchasing computers just for the higher grades. My kindergartner and third-grader are too young for computers. Why are elementary schools' Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO) raising funds for computers when there's a bond question on the Nov. 6 ballot?
Editor's Note: Due to the length and number of questions presented in this question, the district's responses will be listed in sections below.
Q. Why are elementary schools' Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO) raising funds for computers when there's a bond question on the Nov. 6 ballot?
A. Because little district money is available for computers, some parent groups have raised substantial amounts of money to purchase an array of technology for their children's schools, including complete computer labs. Technology access has become dependent on fundraising. One of the primary reasons for the technology bond ballot question is to make technology no longer so dependent on fundraising, which varies from building to building, and to make sure all students have the same basic opportunities.
If question four does not pass, schools will still need to replace obsolete computers and find ways to pay for it since the district does not have consistent funding (hence the fundraising).
If approved by voters, question four will provide $14 million for equitable student access to technology in the classroom and upgrade. It will also allow the district to develop a consistent cycle for replacement of obsolete computers for the next six years. Parent organizations could use the dollars they raised to purchase other types of technology or for other needs of their schools.
Q. A five to one ratio is excessive, extravagant and over the top.
A. Data collected by Education Week for the "2007 Technology Counts Report" indicates that Minnesota's average ratio of students to instructional computer is 3.7, or close to four students per computer. In Anoka-Hennepin the average number of students to computers is approximately nine to one, however at some schools it is as high as 14 students per computer.
Statistics in the report also indicate that the majority of instructional computers are placed in labs. It does not take into account the hours these computers are available, nor does it indicate how many hours/weeks the lab computers are out of service for various types of online testing.
According to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), in order to fully integrate technology with instruction and help students learn the technology skills they need to be successful in work and in postsecondary education, this margin of computers to students should be lowered to at least three to one, and preferably two to one. In addition, the computers allocated for instruction need to be available to teachers for instruction on all instructional days.
The figures in the report include computers six years old or newer. If question four is passed, the district would be able to improve the ratio to approximately five students per computer, which is still less than the state average.
Q. Elementary age children do not need computers. I'd like to vote yes for this but the school board did not give me the option of purchasing computers just for the higher grades. My kindergartner and third-grader are too young for computers.
A. The federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) act requires students to be technology and information literate by grade eight. In order to accomplish this, students need to start the learning process in the elementary years. The purpose of this requirement is to make sure students have the skills to be successful before they reach high school.
If elementary students did not use computers or only had very limited access, they would already be behind, in terms of instruction, by the time they entered middle and high school. Students need much more in depth instruction (more than just using text messaging and the Internet for social interaction) in the appropriate use of technology and information for work, particularly in the area of learning to be effective users of information and how to work successfully with a team using critical thinking and problem solving.
The district's current plan at the elementary level is to use computers more extensively in the upper grade levels.
Q. The district received a big payout from the Microsoft settlement (millions of dollars). Where did that filed money go?
A. Anoka-Hennepin received money in the form of vouchers from a class action suit against Microsoft in 2001 for violation of anti-trust laws. The case went to trial in 2004 and was settled several weeks later. The settlement allowed Minnesota consumers of Microsoft products to claim vouchers for the purchase of new computers and software.
Half of the value of any unclaimed vouchers went to Minnesota schools, along with any unredeemed vouchers. The total settlement was $174.5 million, and Minnesota schools received $55.2 million. The Anoka-Hennepin School District received a total of $1,985,588 million from this settlement.
According to the Minnesota Department of Education, the voucher amount for each district was based upon schools' percentage of students eligible for free and reduced price lunch and vouchers could be allocated only to schools with the high percentages of eligible students. Schools can spend the funds only on computers and software. Vouchers from the settlement must be spent by 2012.
The district's schools have used the Microsoft funds according to the School Board-approved technology plan and the list of priorities established by the board for the 2002 technology bond. The bond failed by a narrow margin and as a result, the district has been addressing only the most critical technology needs.
"Every dollar we get, we apply to our state and School Board approved technology plan, even if the money is not from the voters," said Patrick Plant, director of technology.
Last spring, the district completed the process of fulfilling the first priority, which was to replace six-year-old high school classroom computers, and to upgrade the operating system and memory for the five-year-old entry-level computers in elementary and middle school classrooms.
For kindergarten through grade eight, the district's Technology Steering Committee has identified these needs: replacing obsolete student computers, and improved connectivity, both wired and wireless.
As planning continues, the district's Technology Steering Committee will consider additional district-wide priorities and specific school needs, including upgrading as many Macintosh and Windows computers as possible to the latest version of their respective operating software and purchasing licenses to run Windows Office software (Word, Excel and PowerPoint are used extensively in student instruction and staff development).
Q. Why does the district need more money for computers?
A. The district needs money for computers because student access to computers is unequal throughout the school district, primarily due to a lack of ongoing funding. The state hasn't developed an ongoing funding stream for technology (like it has for other education needs, such as building repair, health and safety, desegregation, transportation). Anoka-Hennepin is significantly behind other school districts in student access to technology.
Superintendent's Column
8. The outcome of the Nov. 6 election
By Dr. Roger Giroux, superintendent
Modern elections focus on personalities and sound bites, fund raising, and, if there's time, a cursory discussion of issues. I often think of the people of small town Iowa inundated by presidential candidates and the national press. These elections are a great part of our national culture and, amazingly, a source of our entertainment and amusement. By comparison, how lowly and lackluster are local elections for school district referenda. And yet, I'd submit that the election on a local levy question will be of far greater importance and more immediate impact than the presidential primaries. We won't have the "glitz" and the voter turnout will be far less but, the effect of the election on our community's way of life is extraordinary.
The message of this article is simple. The outcome of the election will be determined by those who vote "yes," those who vote "no" and those who fail to vote. I believe those who vote will be informed on the issues. I fear that many will not vote because they assume someone else will take care of the problem. My dear friends and neighbors, this vote will determine more than the future of our schools. It will determine the future for our children, the quality of life in our neighborhoods, and the viability of our housing market for families with children. It will affect our tax bill, it will affect our monthly cash flow, and it will affect student fees and the cost and safety of student transportation. The basic point is simple. The issues are in our hands, the voting public of Anoka-Hennepin. The outcomes will be determined by us, not by elected officials, not by the press, not by the legislature, not by cities or counties. The outcome will be our doing and this isn't a casual vote.
Next Tuesday, Nov. 6, we vote. I've said often that I believe the funding cliff faced by the district if the levies are not approved is terribly inappropriate for general election decisions, if only because they must be implemented in eight months. They put our school children at great risk, and the consequences of a "no" vote are carried by the students and their families for years to come. I pray for an informed electorate that actually knows how it would provide education in September of 2008 if the levies fail. A quick sound bite, flippant comment or reliance on something called conventional wisdom isn't going to do it.
I want to devote a good part of this article to the extraordinary conversations I've had during this information campaign and the great people I've met along the way. We are blessed with caring and concerned citizens.
I met many of our senior citizens living on fixed incomes and worried about the payment of their tax bills. These same seniors were equally worried about the education of their grandchildren. They fret over fees for bus rides to and from school. They voiced concern about students in their neighborhoods paying for high school activities. They want their homes to retain value and their communities to be safe and thriving. They aren't often asked to vote on a tax. One gentleman remembered voting on bonds to build schools but couldn't remember being asked by any other branch of government to vote on continuing to pay the taxes to support the continued operation of the city, county or state.
Young couples whose children are not yet of school age and have stretched to buy their first home want great schools and voiced a support for the levy with a caution that the taxes shouldn't go much higher.
I met fathers and mothers in their second or third family homes. They have often bought up in the housing market and are faced not only with the mortgage and interest rates, but also the cost of raising a family, pending college tuition, medical costs and what sometimes appears to be a teetering economy. For the most part, their children are in the upper elementary grades or in our secondary schools. They too are facing the balance between the tax of the levy and the fees for activities and transportation. They worry about their son's or daughter's chance for college and asked if a failed vote would eliminate courses they need to get into a good school.
Not all students are heading for a strictly book-based, post secondary college career. Students at the Anoka Technical College value their education. Our high school students attending the Anoka-Hennepin Secondary Technical Education Program on the Anoka college campus want to know if those programs are at risk.
There is a general puzzlement on how the failure of this levy would actually result in the closing of schools. School closings seem to become more clear when the dollars represented by the levy questions are converted into the eliminations of teaching positions and the creation of 520 classrooms without teachers.
People are anxious to talk about technology and computers. Equity of access to computers at each school is a concern. Creating efficiencies by keeping our investment in technology for our students and schools competitive is also a concern. Most people I've met would not consider themselves computer savvy, but those who were had insightful questions and comments on the district's technology plan. There is concern that the children of Anoka-Hennepin not be left behind.
The questions as they appear on the ballot are designed by law and are not voter friendly. Each question is headed by a bold-type explanation of what the question is about. Please study the explanatory material sent to each Anoka-Hennepin household as a guide or look at the district Web site at www.anoka.k12.mn.us.
Nov. 6 is an important day in the lives of our 41,000 students. Please give them your careful consideration of these issues. Please give them the benefit of your experience with these schools and with our communities. Please give them the time and effort it takes to vote.
Upcoming Events:
9. Encourage a student to apply for a Prudential Spirit of Community Award, deadline Oct. 31
Over the past 12 years, Prudential Spirit of Community Awards have been awarded to more than 75,000 middle and high school students across the country for helping the less fortunate, promoting health and safety, protecting the environment and serving their communities through volunteer activities. Last year an Anoka-Hennepin student, Brittany Fedje of Sandburg Middle School, was a winner of this award.
The award, sponsored by Prudential Financial Inc in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), honors outstanding community service by young people in grades five through 12 at the local, state and national level.
Applications need to be completed and submitted by Oct. 31 to a middle or high school principal, Girl Scout council, county 4-H agent, American Red Cross chapter, YMCA or a volunteer center belonging to the Points of Light Foundation and Volunteer Center National Network. The school or local organization will then certify and nominate one (or more) applicant(s) to advance to state-level judging as its Local Honoree(s). Applicants must be certified and nominated by a principal or the head of an officially designated local organization to be eligible for state-level awards.
Applications are available online at: www.prudential.com/spirit. In addition, a paper version of the application form may be obtained through the mail by calling toll-free 1-877-525-8491.
General News and Events:
10. Choice Fair Nov. 3 will showcase special schools open to all students
Students and parents interested in exploring new educational opportunities for kindergarten through grade 12 are invited to attend the NorthWest Suburban Integration School District (NWSISD) Choice Fair on Saturday, Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Maple Grove Community Center in Maple Grove. This exciting event will feature performances and presentations from NWSISD magnet programs, as well as activities for children and informational booths where students and parents can pick up information and applications and speak with representatives from the schools.
Magnet schools provide students with learning adventures that take them beyond the traditional instructional experience while helping them open their minds and reach their true potential. They are designed around specialized themes that appeal to students' interests and aptitudes: Visual, Performing, Literary and Technological/Media Arts; Science, Math and Technology; and International Baccalaureate. Free transportation will be provided to students in the seven districts who apply to and are accepted to a magnet school through the NWSISD lottery.
NWSISD was created in 2001 in response to a new state desegregation rule. It has three goals: increase student achievement, create more educational opportunities for students, and create more integrated learning environments.
All students residing within the seven NWSISD member districts (Anoka-Hennepin, Brooklyn Center, Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose, Elk River, Fridley, Osseo and Rockford) can apply to any of the nine NWSISD magnet school programs. The application period for the 2007-08 school year begins on Nov. 4. Applications are due to the NWSISD magnet office on Jan. 15. Application forms are available to download in the district's document center at: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=27200&catfilter=11714.
For more information call 763-450-1304 or go to: www.nws.k12.mn.us. The Maple Grove Community Center is located at 12951 Weaver Lake Rd. in Maple Grove.
11. Free meth prevention program "Look Smart, Don't Start" for families Nov. 15 (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=17779.
12. AHEF Northern Stars Beach Ball Nov. 17 (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18170.
13. Nominate an outstanding teacher for a TOP Award, deadline Dec. 7 (link)
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section: http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18168.
14. Anoka-Hennepin STEM Fair open to public Jan. 12, judges needed
Click on the following link to read this article in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18430.
15. View the Oct. 23 "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum on cable TV or DVD
If you missed the "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum on Oct. 23, you can now catch it on local cable. Cable channel 18, which is available in most areas of the district, will rebroadcast the event daily at 3:30 p.m. North Metro Cable (Blaine/Ham Lake) will also rebroadcast the event on the following dates and times:
Channel 14
Monday, Oct. 29 at 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 30 at 3 a.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 30 at 11 a.m.
Channel 15
Wednesday, Oct. 31 at 3 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 31 at 11 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 1 at 7 a.m.
If you don't have cable access, you may also check out a DVD copy of the event. A limited amount of copies are available to check out from the district's Parent Involvement Department for a 24-hour period. Contact the Parent Involvement Resource Center (PIRC) at 763-506-1567. PIRC is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during school days.
The "Meet the School Board Candidates" forum was held at the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Service Center in Coon Rapids. The following candidates participated in the event:
ELECTION DISTRICT TWO
Serving the communities of Blaine and Coon Rapids, including all or part of the attendance areas of Blaine and Coon Rapids High Schools, Roosevelt and Northdale middle schools; Adams, Johnsville, Jefferson, Madison and University Avenue elementary schools:
Marci Anderson
Dan Cook (incumbent)
ELECTION DISTRICT FIVE
Serving the communities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids and Fridley including all or part of the attendance areas of Champlin Park High School, Evergreen Park, Hoover, L.O. Jacob, Mississippi, Monroe, Oxbow Creek and Riverview elementary schools:
Warren Harder
Scott Wenzel (incumbent)
The event was co-sponsored by the Anoka-Blaine-Champlin League of Women Voters, the Parent Legislative Team of Anoka-Hennepin and Working Partnerships. All three organizations are non-partisan and support citizens' participation in American democracy.
16. Download a PDF copy of the district's Annual Report on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Performance
Click on the following link to download a PDF copy of the district's annual report on curriculum, instruction and student performance in the district's Document Center:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=233661&fileitem=30070&catfilter=11704.
The report is prepared by the Systems Accountability Committee (SAC). SAC is a state-mandated advisory committee to ensure community participation in all phases of planning and improving curriculum and instruction.
As required by law, the district's Systems Accountability Committee of parents, community members and staff reviewed district curriculum study committee reports, results of statewide and nationally standardized tests and progress toward implementation of Minnesota Academic Standards. The committee found that the school district meets all requirements of the Systems Accountability reporting law.
Elementary School News and Events:
17. Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School celebrates International Peace Day
Evergreen Park World Studies Elementary School, an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme and international peace site, hosted a celebration for students and staff on Sept. 21 to celebrate International Day of Peace. The event focused on world cultures and featured presentations from 20 international speakers from the Minnesota International Center.
To demonstrate what they learned, students wrote about cultures on large rolls of paper, called "World-On-A-Roll," and supplemented it with artwork. The rolls were displayed in the school's gymnasium for the closing ceremony.
The International Day of Peace, established by a United Nations resolution in 1981, provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of Peace on a shared date. The first International Day of Peace was celebrated in Sept. 1982. This year marks the fifth year that Evergreen Park has participated in the event.
Click on the following link to view photos of this event in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=18615.
18. Madison Elementary School celebrates 40th birthday
Madison Elementary School rocked into its 40th year on Sept. 28 with the help of students, staff, Blaine High School and the Blaine Police, Fire and Emergency Response Units. To celebrate, students read 40 minutes during Madison's "Rockin' Reading" time, ran 40 minutes around the school's track during "Madison Minutes" and, in the spirit of giving, repaid the Blaine community in appreciation for four decades of working together. The event also featured a performance from the Blaine High School marching band.
"It was a smash hit," said Sandy Perkerwicz, Madison Elementary media specialist. "It was truly an event that the students and staff will long remember."
A portion of money students collected earlier this fall for new technology was donated to the Blaine Police and Spring Lake Park-Blaine-Mounds View Fire Department for use toward equipping the department's new Mobile Command Unit. Members of the department were on-hand to partake in the festivities.
"We, as a school, decided to donate part of our proceeds to help equip the new Blaine Incident Response Unit, because it was really put on the front burner following the tornado disaster of September 2005," said Perkerwicz.
Madison continued its celebration on Oct. 23 with a talent show, featuring the talents of students and staff. Acts ranged from singing, magic tricks, karate, dance/flip routine and hula-hoop dances.
The school will hold additional events throughout the year to celebrate its 40th anniversary and to showcase Madison students and staff.
Click on the following link to view photos of Madison's Sept. 28 celebration in the A-H News section:
http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/whatsnew/default.php?sectiondetailid=233410&itemID=186166.
Middle School News and Events:
19. Northdale Middle School fiddle group selected to perform at Nation Association for Gifted Children National Convention
The Northdale Middle School fiddle group has been selected to perform at the National Association for Gifted Children National Convention on Saturday, Nov. 10 at 2 p.m., held at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
The convention runs from Nov. 7 through 11 and includes registrants from 49 states and 14 countries. The Northdale fiddle group is made up of approximately 15 orchestra students who meet once a week after school. Students will perform the following Andrew Dabczynski and Bob Phillips arrangements: "Bile 'em Cabbage Down," "Old Joe Clark," "La Valse des Juenes Filles," "Cripple Creek," "Mari's Wedding" and "Swallowtail Jig."
The Northdale fiddle group is under the direction of Sylvia Wilson, Northdale music teacher.
High School News and Events:
20. Champlin Park High School "So You Think You Can Dance" performance Nov. 17
The public is invited to attend Champlin Park High School's "So You Think You Can Dance" performance on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 11 a.m. The event, sponsored by the Champlin Park High School troupe dance team, will feature performances from local high school dance teams and studio performers.
Tickets are $5 in advance or $7 at the door ($5 at the door for students). For more information, contact Joann Sanfo | | |
