A September to Remember

As the sun sets a little earlier and the leaves start to change, the fall season brings a sense of excitement, learning and community. September signals a clear transition from summer’s end to the beginning of more structured routines. School is in full swing and working together with families, we have had an excellent start to the school year.

From the “firsts” of our youngest kindergarteners to the many “lasts” our high school seniors will mark, September signifies a both fresh start and a world of possibilities.

This year, our community has demonstrated an incredible commitment to ensuring our students have everything they need to return to learning. We are grateful for acts of generosity that reaffirm the power of community. We want to thank many in our business community, who have played a pivotal role in this back-to-school season, showing their dedication to our children's education in tangible ways.

Gratitude for Business Partners

One example was the backpack drive with school supplies. Minnco alone donated more than 100 fully stocked backpacks of school supplies, and we had many other private donations. To individuals and  businesses who contributed to this initiative, thank you! These backpacks aren't just filled with notebooks, crayons and pencils; they're bursting with hope and promise. They represent the support and belief by our community in the potential of every student, every day. 

We also want to again thank First Bank & Trust, Affinity Plus, Kwik Trip, Cub Foods and Common Ground United Methodist Church for donations and treats to make our educators feel appreciated. The start of a new school year can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking for teachers and staff. And the community support for our dedicated staff communicates a message of appreciation and encouragement. 

We also appreciate the unwavering support of our mayors and elected officials. Their presence at school kick-off events, their words of encouragement, and their commitment to our public education exemplify the true spirit of collaboration between local government, community and schools.

Homecoming Week

As we revel in the spirit of September, we're excited to invite everyone to join us in another cherished tradition: our Homecoming Celebration. This week we welcome BLuejacket alumni back into our schools. From dress-up days to Coronation to the GridIron, this week provides a time to come together, reconnect with old friends, and create new memories. Tomorrow night we host St. Francis on George Larson Field for football. All are welcome. We encourage you to grab your tickets in advance at https://cibluejackets.hometownticketing.com/embed/event/99 

Let's fill the stands with cheers and support for our Bluejackets! Together, we're an unstoppable force for good in our community. 

So, as we celebrate this great start to the school year, we're reminded of the immense potential that lies ahead. We're preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, manufacturers, workers and caretakers. In our fast-paced world, the skills they acquire today will be the tools they use to navigate a constantly changing future. Our schools are not just places of learning; they are incubators of creativity, critical thinking, and resilience. We plant seeds of curiosity and allow individual goals and dreams to take root. Our staff want every student and family to feel welcome and supported throughout this year.

So, here's to a school year filled with discovery, growth, learning and achievement. Here's to the businesses that believe in our students' potential, the mayors, elected officials and community members who champion our schools, the families who support and nurture a love of learning, and the incredible staff who open doors to possibilities. Together, we're building a stronger, more vibrant community, one student, one day at a time.

Thank you again for your continued support. Here’s to a September to remember.

 

Nate Rudolph

Superintendent