Students and teacher in classroom.

Back to School Part 2: What’s Exciting?

Thanks to The North 40 Tavern for their support. A north woods tavern somewhere in the middle of a big city. They regularly rotate tap beers, so stop in to see what’s currently flowing.

With school starting this week, educators share what’s worth getting excited about in ISD 197.

What makes our school community special that you want our students, staff, and families to be excited about? 

We talked with seven staff members across ISD 197 to get their perspective: 

  • Fresh start: “Every year is better—it’s a fresh start to be an even better you!” –Jessalin Karsnia, Counselor, Somerset Elementary
  • Team: “School District 197 is special because of our amazing staff who go above and beyond to support students every day. We’re also proud of the diversity in our schools, which gives students the chance to learn and work with people from many different backgrounds. That not only makes our community stronger now, but also prepares students for success in the future.” –Mason Young, At Promise Coordinator, Heritage E-STEM Magnet School
  • Family: “Our 197 school community is like one big family! Everyone has a place here. There is something for everyone!” –Kimber Scott, Administrative Assistant, Two Rivers High School
  • Diversity: “The diversity in School District 197 is what makes our school community so special. The fact that our students can interact with other students from diverse backgrounds helps them develop empathy, understanding and respect for others.” –Xiomara Medina Calderon, Cultural Liaison/Interpreter/Translator, Garlough Environmental Magnet School
  • Working hard: “Heritage E-STEM Magnet School is an amazing place to be. Our teachers are the best around. They work hard to know each student both academically and personally and provide opportunities for students to learn from each other. We strive to give students many different experiences in and out of the classroom. Students always look forward to field trips to Dodge Nature Center and other places around the metro area, they enjoy hands-on projects, and learning through our E-STEM programs.” –Heidi Koury, Principal, Heritage E-STEM Magnet School
  • Be you: “Moreland is a tight-knit community that cares deeply for our students. When our Moreland Monarchs arrive at school, our teachers create an environment where all students are accepted. Monarchs are engaged in arts-based activity from the first day to the last day of school, fully embracing our arts magnet. This year, we can look forward to another amazing show from our fourth graders as they perform Shrek Jr.! To tie it all together, our theme at Moreland this year is, ‘Be you! What makes you different makes us strong!’” –Rob Sahli, Principal, Moreland Arts and Health Sciences Magnet School
  • Belonging: “Our school community is a place where we hope everyone feels like they belong—we want to make sure that students, staff, and families feel connected, supported, and encouraged.” –Jessica Cabak, Principal, Two Rivers High School

See part one for our back to school pep talk. Thanks to ISD 197 staff for sharing their thoughts as we start another school year.

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