Education

First-graders at Marshall Elementary School in Byron Center, Michigan, embarked on an exciting journey of research and nonfiction writing, exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom. Guided by their enthusiastic teacher, Taryn Eilers, the young students delved into the world of different animals, discovering fascinating facts and translating their newfound knowledge into beautifully crafted books.

Fostering Curiosity and Ownership

By allowing the students to choose their own animals for research, Eilers empowered them to take ownership of their projects. Beyond the typical dogs and cats, the children explored a wide range of creatures, including gorillas, flamingos, giraffes, dolphins, and komodo dragons. This freedom to follow their passions ignited their curiosity and led to creative and engaging learning experiences.

The Joy of Discovering

With soft music and low lighting setting a tranquil atmosphere, the first-graders learned how to conduct research, gathering information from books in the library or using digital reading platforms like Epic. They eagerly absorbed knowledge about their chosen animals’ characteristics and traits, delighting in discovering intriguing details about their subjects.

From Research to Books

After taking notes on their animal research reports, the students transformed their findings into final books, meticulously handwriting their stories and observations. The combination of scientific exploration and writing skills honed their abilities to communicate their discoveries effectively, while also fostering a love for both research and writing.

Sharing the Adventure

The culmination of the project saw the students reading their books in small groups, sharing their newfound expertise with their peers. Additionally, the books found a place in the classroom library, where they could be checked out, reminiscent of a visit to the local library. The enthusiasm and passion exhibited by the first-graders throughout the process left a lasting impression on both their teacher and classmates.

This immersive journey into research and nonfiction writing not only expanded the first-graders’ knowledge of the natural world but also instilled in them a sense of curiosity, the joy of learning, and the power of self-expression. Through their exploration of animals and the written word, these young learners experienced the thrill of becoming authors and discovered the wonders that await them in the world of research.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the entities mentioned in the content:

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the background of Molly Avila, the first-grader interested in sloths?

  Molly Avila is a first-grader who expressed her enthusiasm for sloths. More information about her background, interests, and motivations for researching and writing a nonfiction book about sloths would provide a better understanding of her story.

• Who is Taryn Eilers and what is her teaching approach in incorporating research and writing in the curriculum?

  Taryn Eilers is the first-grade teacher at Marshall Elementary. Exploring her teaching philosophy, approach to integrating research and writing, and how she fosters an engaging learning environment for her students would provide insights into her methods and practices.

• What is Marshall Elementary School known for, and are there any other notable programs or initiatives?

  Marshall Elementary School is mentioned in the article. Exploring the school’s reputation, location, and any noteworthy programs or initiatives related to science, writing, or research would provide a broader understanding of the school’s educational environment.

• How do first-graders conduct their animal research, and what were their findings and insights?

  Understanding the research process followed by the first-graders, including their selection of animals, the resources they utilized (such as books or digital platforms), and the specific information they discovered about their chosen animals would shed light on their learning journey.

• How does the classroom library work at Marshall Elementary, and what kind of books are available?

  Exploring the functioning of the classroom library mentioned in the article, including its purpose, book selection, and how students access and utilize the books, would provide insights into the reading culture within the classroom.

Chris Boedigheimer, a grade 6-12 art teacher at Nevis School, has been named Teacher of the Year by his peers. Boedigheimer has made significant contributions to the art department, including reintroducing a ceramics program and leading after-school art and game clubs.

Connecting with Students and Fostering Creativity

Boedigheimer’s teaching style is centered around his enthusiasm for the subject and his ability to connect with his students. He encourages their creativity and diverse interests, saying that one of his favorite parts of teaching is seeing what the kids come up with. He strives to incorporate a little bit of clay and ceramics into every grade level, bringing back a program that had been absent from Nevis School.

Experience and Background

Before joining Nevis School, Boedigheimer taught at Century School in Park Rapids for four years. He has a bachelor’s of fine arts in studio art, with an emphasis in ceramics, and a second BFA in art education. Boedigheimer still creates and sells his art when school is not in session.

Art and Game Clubs

Boedigheimer supervises the Nevis School art and game clubs during after-school hours. The art club is an opportunity for students to explore their own interests, while Boedigheimer acts as a guide and coach. The game club, which primarily focuses on Dungeons and Dragons, is a space where students can hang out and play games in a social setting.

Future Ambitions

Boedigheimer enjoys teaching at the high school level because students can engage in more ambitious projects and have in-depth discussions. He hopes to continue expanding the ceramics program and offer new opportunities for his students.

Overall, Boedigheimer’s enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication to his students have earned him the title of Nevis Teacher of the Year. His efforts to reintroduce the ceramics program, lead after-school clubs, and connect with his students have made a significant impact on the Nevis School community.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is Chris Boedigheimer?

  Chris Boedigheimer is a grade 6-12 art teacher at Nevis School in Minnesota, who was voted as Nevis Teacher of the Year in 2021. He is known for his enthusiasm about the classes he teaches, his connection with students, and his efforts to introduce new opportunities in the art department, such as the ceramics program.

• What are some of the things Chris Boedigheimer has done at Nevis School?

  Chris Boedigheimer has introduced the ceramics program at Nevis School, and purchased a kiln and pottery wheels. He has also supervised the art and game clubs during after-school hours, and taken 14 of the students to the Minnesota State High School League festival.

• Where did Chris Boedigheimer grow up and study?

  Chris Boedigheimer grew up in southern Minnesota and graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a bachelor’s of fine arts (BFA) in studio art, with an emphasis in ceramics. He later went back to college for a second BFA in art education so he could teach art classes.

• What are the art and game clubs at Nevis School?

  The art club at Nevis School is an opportunity for students to explore their own interests a little further, with an average of 25 participants. Chris Boedigheimer acts as more of a coach and a guide, helping students along the way. The game club is a place where students meet primarily to play Dungeons and Dragons.

Amidst a politically charged environment, Superintendent Diana Greene of the Duval County School District has announced her retirement, leaving a major school district in need of new leadership. The decision comes as the district faces scrutiny and criticism over its handling of reports of crimes and faculty misconduct. The departure of Greene, who had been superintendent since 2018, adds to the growing number of appointed superintendents in Florida who have recently chosen to leave or been removed from their positions.

Challenges and Controversies

One of the key challenges facing the district relates to accusations of underreported on-campus crime, as highlighted by a statewide grand jury report. Additionally, the district faced criticism over its response to complaints about teacher misconduct at the renowned Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. These issues, combined with perceived misalignment with the administration of Governor Ron DeSantis, likely influenced Greene’s decision to retire.

Emergency Meeting and Interim Replacement

A recent emergency meeting called by Board Chair Kelly Coker discussed Greene’s departure and the selection of a new superintendent. Some board members expressed concerns about the meeting’s circumvention of normal notice requirements, raising questions about transparency. As Greene’s retirement date approaches, the school board is now tasked with finding an interim replacement to lead the 129,000-student district until a permanent superintendent is appointed.

Voices of Criticism and Support

The controversy surrounding Greene’s retirement has sparked contrasting opinions. Activist groups like Moms for Liberty have called for accountability, expressing concerns about student safety and demanding consequences for those responsible. On the other hand, supporters of Greene argue that her removal is politically motivated, citing Governor DeSantis’ alleged influence over school boards. The NAACP’s Jacksonville branch president defended Greene, urging the board to consider the integrity of the decision.

As Superintendent Diana Greene prepares to step down, the Duval County School District faces a critical juncture. The ongoing review of complaints, the selection of an interim replacement, and the subsequent search for a permanent superintendent will shape the future of the district. The community awaits further developments and hopes for a leader who will prioritize student welfare and restore confidence in the district’s governance.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the entities mentioned in the content:

1. FAQ: Who is Diana Greene and what is her background?

* Diana Greene is the current Superintendent of the Duval County School District. She has been in this role since 2018. Prior to that, she had a career in education spanning 38 years, including teaching at Baldwin’s Mamie Agnes Jones Elementary School. For more detailed information, you can refer to her Wikipedia page.
2. FAQ: What is the role of the Duval County School Board and who is Kelly Coker?

* The Duval County School Board is responsible for governing and overseeing the Duval County School District. They make decisions on matters related to the district’s policies, budget, and hiring of key personnel. Kelly Coker is the current Board Chair of the Duval County School Board. She called an emergency meeting to address Superintendent Diana Greene’s contract and the selection of a new superintendent.
3. FAQ: What is Moms for Liberty and who is Rebecca Nathanson?

* Moms for Liberty is an activist group that advocates for parental rights and local control in education. They focus on issues such as curriculum, school policies, and accountability. Rebecca Nathanson is the chair of the Duval County chapter of Moms for Liberty. She spoke at the board meeting, expressing concerns about student safety and accountability within the school system.
4. FAQ: What is the significance of Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and the complaints raised about teacher misconduct?

* Douglas Anderson School of the Arts is a prestigious arts high school located in Duval County. Alumni and families have raised complaints about suspicious or inappropriate behavior involving teachers at the school, which predate Superintendent Diana Greene’s tenure. The specific incidents and details can be found by further researching news articles or online discussions.

Please note that the information provided here is a summary of the entities and their roles. For more detailed and up-to-date information, it is recommended to refer to relevant sources such as Wikipedia, news websites, or official websites of the organizations involved.

A teacher and reading specialist, Brandi Dugal, has developed a groundbreaking board game called The Fidget Game, which is transforming the way children learn to read. Backed by the science of reading, this innovative game utilizes a multisensory approach to make the learning process engaging and enjoyable for children.

Game-Based Learning for Reading Mastery

The Fidget Game is designed to help children in grades Pre-K to grade 3 develop essential reading skills. It focuses on foundational abilities such as sound recognition, blending, word decoding, context clues, and sight word recognition. By incorporating these elements into a board game format, children are motivated to actively participate and advance their reading abilities.

Extensive research conducted by Brandi Dugal highlighted the limitations of traditional reading teaching methods, leading her to develop a game that addresses these shortcomings. The game’s success is evident, with over 50,000 schools in the United States now implementing The Fidget Game in their curriculum.

A Fun and Engaging Learning Experience

The Fidget Game is more than just a typical board game. It offers an immersive experience where players compete to achieve “reading mastery.” The game’s setup, resembling a traditional board game, captivates children’s attention and provides a sense of excitement and accomplishment as they progress towards their reading goals.

Brandi Dugal’s motivation for creating The Fidget Game stemmed from her firsthand observations as an educator. She recognized the challenges and stress children face when learning to read and wanted to create a solution that makes the process fun and engaging. Her goal is to empower children of all abilities, helping them become confident and successful readers.

Gamifying Education and Expanding Language Learning

Building upon the success of The Fidget Game, Brandi Dugal is determined to gamify the entire US curriculum. She plans to conduct extensive research on effective learning methods to develop more educational games. Her next venture involves teaching children new languages, starting with French, Spanish, and Mandarin.

The impact of The Fidget Game extends beyond the classroom. By revolutionizing the way children learn to read, it equips them with the necessary skills for success. This game-based approach ensures that learning becomes a positive and enriching experience, fostering a lifelong love for reading and knowledge.

Brandi Dugal’s innovative board game, The Fidget Game, is making waves in education, providing a fun and effective method for children to develop vital reading skills. As it continues to gain traction in schools across the United States, this revolutionary game has the potential to transform education and empower children to become confident and accomplished readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the background of Brandi Dugal, the creator of The Fidget Game?

  Brandi Dugal is a teacher and reading specialist who created The Fidget Game. She has a background in education and a passion for finding innovative ways to make learning engaging and fun for children.

• How does The Fidget Game help children learn to read?

  The Fidget Game uses a multisensory approach to help children learn to read. It focuses on developing foundational reading skills such as recognizing and blending sounds, decoding words, using context clues, and sight word recognition. The game is designed to be engaging and fun, making the learning process more enjoyable for children.

• How successful has The Fidget Game been?

  The Fidget Game has been a huge success, and it is currently being used in over 50,000 schools in the United States. The game’s innovative approach to teaching reading has garnered positive feedback from educators and has helped children develop important reading skills.

• What are the future plans for Brandi Dugal and The Fidget Game?

  Brandi Dugal has ambitious plans to gamify the entire US curriculum. She intends to extensively research the best ways children learn and create more educational games, starting with teaching children new languages such as French, Spanish, and Mandarin.

As finals approach, universities understand the increased stress levels students face during this period. To aid students in managing their stress and achieving success, various programs and events are being offered by the University. From writing assistance to mental health support, here is a comprehensive guide to the resources available over the next two weeks.

The Writers Workshop: Enhancing Writing Skills and Confidence

The Writers Workshop, located in the Main Library, continues to provide extensive feedback on students’ papers throughout the school year. With the aim of helping students submit their best work, the workshop offers appointments both in person and via Zoom, along with walk-in hours. Recent events like “The Final Check: Proofreading and Editing Strategies” and “Publishing Your First Journal Article” have provided valuable guidance to students. Additionally, during the Main Library’s De-Stress Fest, the Writers Workshop hosted a “Creative Brain Break” station, offering snacks and engaging writing-related activities.

Counseling Center: Supporting Mental and Physical Health

The Counseling Center is dedicated to promoting self-care and raising awareness about the importance of mental and physical health, particularly during stressful periods like finals. In addition to individual counseling appointments, they offer the Finish Strong program, which provides tips for handling stress. The center also distributes finals care packages, serving as a reminder for students to reach out if they need support. Their presence across campus, along with their informative events, ensures students are well-informed and have access to the resources they require.

McKinley Health Center: Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing

McKinley Health Center recognizes the impact of stress on students and has initiated efforts to provide stress relief packs. These packs are available at the Health Center and the Illini Union, though quantities are limited. Additionally, McKinley Health Center hosts events that focus on improving mental health during finals. Initiatives like “Kick the Stigma” help spread awareness about mental health resources, while collaborations with La Casa Cultural Latina introduce relaxation techniques for stress management through the event “Relaxation of the Mind and Body.”

Office of Minority Student Affairs Academic Service Center: Tutoring Support

The Office of Minority Student Affairs Academic Service Center offers drop-in tutoring for Math and Chemistry. Students can take advantage of this valuable resource to enhance their understanding of key subjects. Their commitment to academic support ensures that students have access to additional help when needed.

Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations International Education: A Global Perspective

International Education, under the Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations, organizes events like “Finals Snacks for Success” and “Finals Week Pop-up.” These events provide opportunities for students to try international snacks and beverages, fostering a sense of cultural exchange and relaxation before exams.

By offering a range of resources and events, the university aims to alleviate students’ stress and promote their overall well-being during the challenging finals period. Whether it is seeking writing support, accessing counseling services, or participating in cultural events, students are encouraged to make use of these valuable resources to navigate finals successfully.

Here are 4-5 frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the entities mentioned in the content:

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is the Writers Workshop located?

  The Writers Workshop is located in the Main Library at the University. Students can schedule an appointment in person or on Zoom, and walk-in hours are also available.

• What services does the Counseling Center offer?

  The Counseling Center offers individual counseling appointments and also provides the Finish Strong program. The program aims to spread awareness about tips for handling stress, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical health, especially during stressful times like finals. They also distribute finals care packages.

• Where can I get stress relief packs from McKinley Health Center?

  Stress relief packs are distributed by McKinley Health Center at two locations: the Health Center itself and the Illini Union. However, the packs are limited in number and may go quickly.

• What events are hosted by McKinley Health Center during finals?

  McKinley Health Center hosts various events to improve mental health during finals. Some of these events include “Kick the Stigma,” which aims to spread awareness about mental health resources through an inflatable soccer game with the Illinois soccer team. They also collaborate with La Casa Cultural Latina to host “Relaxation of the Mind and Body,” where visitors can learn about relaxation techniques for stress management.

• What events are hosted by the Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations International Education?

  The Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations International Education hosts events like “Finals Snacks for Success” in the lower level of ISR, where people can try international snacks and relax before exams. They also organize an alternative event called “Finals Week Pop-up” at the Main Library Orange Room, featuring international snacks and beverages.

Please note that the provided answers are based on the information given in the content and may not reflect the most up-to-date details.

A former school principal in Florida, Hope Carrasquilla, was compelled to resign from her position following a controversy surrounding the display of Michelangelo’s iconic ‘David’ statue to class 6 students. The incident has sparked a debate about art, education, and parental consent.

Controversy Erupts over Renaissance Art Lesson

The controversy began when a parent filed a complaint, alleging that students were exposed to pornography during a lesson on Renaissance art, which included the ‘David’ sculpture. Other parents joined in expressing their concerns about the lack of prior notification regarding the nude figure’s inclusion in the curriculum.

Principal’s Visit to ‘David’ at Accademia Galleria

Hope Carrasquilla, along with her family, recently visited the ‘David’ statue at the Accademia Galleria in Florence, Italy. The museum’s director, Cecilie Hollberg, extended an invitation to Carrasquilla, who expressed her admiration for the artwork and the gallery as a whole. Carrasquilla emphasized that the sculpture represents the beauty of the human body and praised Michelangelo’s artistry.

Museum Director’s Statement and Symbolism of ‘David’

Cecilie Hollberg defended the artistic value of the ‘David’ statue, asserting that it is not pornography but a religious symbol of purity and the victory of good over evil. She welcomed Carrasquilla to the museum and expressed her pleasure in introducing her to the artistic treasures housed within the Accademia Galleria.

Tallahassee Classical School and Resignation

Hope Carrasquilla’s resignation as the principal of Tallahassee Classical School came as a result of the controversy. The school faced criticism for not adequately notifying parents about the specific content of the art lesson, leading to the parents’ complaints and subsequent investigation.

The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the portrayal of nudity in art education and the importance of parental consent. It also raises questions about the appropriate age and context for introducing students to renowned artworks like Michelangelo’s ‘David.’

While the controversy has caused Carrasquilla’s tenure as a school principal to end abruptly, it has ignited a broader discussion about the boundaries of art education, the role of parental involvement, and the interpretation of nudity in the context of historical and artistic masterpieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. Who is Hope Carrasquilla and what were the reasons behind her resignation as a school principal in Florida?

  Answer: Hope Carrasquilla is a former school principal in Florida who was forced to resign after class 6 students were shown Michelangelo’s ‘David’ statue. The controversy arose when a parent complained about the students being exposed to pornography during the lesson on Renaissance art, which included the ‘David’ sculpture. The parents also expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of prior notification about the lesson.

• 2. Can you provide more information about Michelangelo’s ‘David’ statue and its significance?

  Answer: Michelangelo’s ‘David’ is a renowned marble sculpture that depicts the biblical figure of David, nude and ready for battle with Goliath. It is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance art and symbolizes themes of courage, purity, and the triumph of good over evil. The controversy surrounding its display to class 6 students stemmed from differing opinions on its appropriateness and artistic merit.

• 3. What is the Florence’s Accademia Galleria and how is it connected to the ‘David’ statue?

  Answer: The Accademia Galleria in Florence is a museum that houses several significant artworks, including Michelangelo’s ‘David’ statue. The museum’s director, Cecilie Hollberg, invited Hope Carrasquilla and her family to visit the gallery and view the masterpiece. Hollberg emphasized that the statue is not pornography but a religious symbol of purity and innocence.

• 4. What led to Hope Carrasquilla’s resignation and the complaints from parents at Tallahassee Classical School?

  Answer: Hope Carrasquilla’s resignation as the principal of Tallahassee Classical School in Florida was a result of a parent’s complaint regarding the art lesson on Renaissance art, which included the display of Michelangelo’s ‘David’ statue. Some parents were upset that their children were exposed to nudity without prior notification. The controversy ultimately led to Carrasquilla’s departure from the school.

• 5. What is the significance of the Renaissance art movement?

  Answer: The Renaissance art movement emerged in Europe during the 14th to 17th centuries, characterized by a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman culture. It marked a period of significant artistic, intellectual, and cultural development. Renaissance art is renowned for its focus on humanism, perspective, anatomical accuracy, and realistic portrayal of subjects. It produced iconic works by artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.

Amanda Robinson, a 22-year-old student at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, passed away on April 19 due to a pre-existing medical condition. Despite her struggles with narcolepsy, Robinson was dedicated to serving others and had a passion for emergency management, homeland security, and marine science.

Life and Legacy

Robinson was a resident of Bellmore, New York, and had a passion for serving others that extended beyond her studies. She worked with refugees and immigrants seeking asylum during her internships and was also part of the EMS Corp and the Big Brother Big Sisters of Cape Cod. Her friend, Samara Podmore, who set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of Robinson’s wake and funeral, described her as “the epitome of serving others” and noted that she “accomplished more than I thought imaginable, both professionally and as a loving friend and family member.”

Struggling with Narcolepsy

Robinson’s narcolepsy diagnosis prevented her from pursuing her dream of becoming a pilot or serving in the military, but it did not stop her from pursuing her passions. Despite the challenges she faced, Robinson fought on and found her place in emergency management with a minor in homeland security and marine science, safety, and environmental protection. She served as a cadet of the Massachusetts Maritime Colleges Regiment, embodying the spirit of “one hand for the ship, one hand for your shipmate.”

Remembering Amanda

Robinson’s passing has left a deep impact on those who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to serve their communities. The GoFundMe campaign set up by her friend Samara Podmore has already surpassed its initial goal, and the additional funds will go toward creating a scholarship in Robinson’s honor. Robinson’s passing is a reminder to cherish our loved ones and to continue serving our communities with the same dedication and passion that she embodied throughout her life.

Robinson’s family and friends are grateful for the outpouring of love and support they have received from the community, and they hope that her legacy will inspire others to pursue their passions and make a difference in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who was Amanda Robinson and what happened to her?

  Amanda Robinson was a cadet of the Massachusetts Maritime Colleges Regiment who passed away at the age of 22 in her dorm room, likely due to a pre-existing medical condition of narcolepsy. She was involved in several organizations, such as EMS Corp and Big Brother Big Sisters of Cap Cod, and had a passion for helping others.

• What is narcolepsy and how did it affect Amanda Robinson’s career choices?

  Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects a person’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. Amanda Robinson was unable to pursue her dream of becoming a pilot or serving in the military due to her diagnosis, but she did not let that stop her from pursuing a career in Emergency Management with a minor in Homeland Security and Marine Science, Safety, and Environmental Protection.

• What is the purpose of the GoFundMe campaign for Amanda Robinson and how can I donate?

  The GoFundMe campaign was organized to help cover the costs of Amanda Robinson’s wake, funeral, and any other accommodations her family must make. To donate, interested individuals can visit the campaign page linked in the article.

The end of the school year is fast approaching, but for students at the Sartell-St. Stephen School District, there is still much to look forward to. The district’s superintendent, Jeff Ridlehoover, recently announced that the district is preparing for its summer school programming. This program is designed to help students who may need an extra boost in their education, and it is available for both special education and general education students.

Identifying Students Who Need Extra Help

According to Ridlehoover, the district’s staff typically identifies students who could benefit from the summer school program. While the program is not mandatory, several families take advantage of it to ensure that their children do not fall behind. Ridlehoover added that the district has enough staff to support the summer school program effectively.

Plans for Graduation Ceremony

The district is also preparing for its graduation ceremony, which is scheduled to take place on June 3rd. The ceremony will be held in the high school gym, as in previous years. Ridlehoover stated that the district is wrapping up final details for the event.

Teacher of the Year Finalist

The Sartell-St. Stephen School District is also celebrating one of its teachers, Joe Schulte, who was named one of 11 finalists for the 2023 Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. Schulte is a technology education teacher at the high school and is highly invested in the community. Ridlehoover expressed his excitement about having one of the district’s teachers as a finalist, stating that becoming a finalist for Teacher of the Year is no easy task. The winner of the award will be announced at a banquet on May 7th.

About the Sartell-St. Stephen School District

The Sartell-St. Stephen School District is located in central Minnesota and serves approximately 4,500 students. The district is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education to all students, regardless of their individual needs. In addition to its excellent academic programs, the district offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music programs, and clubs.

Overall, the Sartell-St. Stephen School District is dedicated to providing its students with the support and resources they need to succeed. From its summer school program to its commitment to recognizing outstanding teachers like Joe Schulte, the district is committed to helping its students achieve their full potential.

1. Who is Jeff Ridlehoover and what is his role in the Sartell-St. Stephen school district?
Answer: Jeff Ridlehoover is the superintendent of the Sartell-St. Stephen school district, responsible for overseeing the district’s schools and programs.
2. What is summer school programming in Sartell-St. Stephen and who is eligible for it?
Answer: Summer school programming in Sartell-St. Stephen is a program designed for students who need extra help in their studies. It is available for both special education and general education students, and is not mandatory. Staff typically identify students who could use some extra help, and families can choose to take advantage of the program.
3. What is the Minnesota Teacher of the Year award and who won it in 2023?
Answer: The Minnesota Teacher of the Year award is an annual award given to outstanding teachers in the state. Joe Schulte, a technology education teacher at the Sartell-St. Stephen high school, was one of 11 finalists chosen for the award in 2023. The winner will be announced at a banquet on May 7th.
4. When and where is the Sartell graduation ceremony taking place?
Answer: The Sartell graduation ceremony is scheduled for June 3rd, and will be held in the high school gym as in years past.
5. Who were some of the celebrities that were previously college athletes, as mentioned in the content?
Answer: The content did not provide any specific names of celebrities who were previously college athletes.