Knightly News
Winter 2020
“A Community Focused on Learning, Respect, Opportunity and Achievement.�
IDHS - HOME OF THE KNIGHTS!
Amy Janecek Principal 651-621-6803
amy.janecek@moundsviewschools.org
Abdirizak Abdi Associate Principal (Laz-Z) 651-621-6820
abdirizak.abdi@moundsviewschools.org
Chris Fink Activities Director 651-621-6821
chris.fink@moundsviewschools.org
Maria Roberts Associate Principal (A-Lar) 651-621-6817
maria.roberts@moundsviewschools.org
Breanna Peloquin Administrative Intern 651-621-6810 breanna.peloquin@moundsviewschools.org
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Calendar February February 3 SEC Music Festival & Honor Concert (Woodbury) February 5 Knight Time February 8 MPA - Irondale Drumline Show 5pm February 12 Knight Time
March
February 15 Week Zero Mock Robotics Competition 8am February 17 No School February 22 Winter Music of the Knight 6:30pm February 26 Knight Time
March 1 One-Act Showcase 1pm
March 4 Orchestra Concert (Bethel) 7:30pm
March 1-3 DECA State Competition
March 5 Choir Concert 7:30pm
March 2 Band Concert 7pm March 4 Knight Time
March 10 Communication Night 4:30-7:45pm Physics Fair 6pm
February 27 One-Act Showcase 7pm February 28 One-Act Showcase 7pm February 29 One-Act Showcase 7pm
March 12-22 No School - Spring Break March 25 Knight Time March 26 Cumulative Honor Roll TBD March 31 Choir Solo & Ensemble Contest (Christ the King) 4-7pm
April April 2 Talent Show 7pm April 3 No School April 6 Westside Orchestra Festival 6:30pm April 7 ACT Test Day April 10 No School April 15 Knight Time
April 16 Communication Night 4:30pm IZI Community Event 6:30pm April 17 NHS Blood Drive Multicultural Showcase 7pm
April 24 Spring Play 7pm April 25 Spring Play 7pm April 26 Spring Play 1pm
April 22 Knight Time
April 29 Knight Time
April 23 Spring Play 7pm
April 29-May 2 DECA Nationals (Nashville, TN) ReFLECT Day
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Calendar May May 4 - May 8 AP Exam Week 1 May 6 Knight Time May 9 Prom Grand March 4pm Prom Dance (McNamara Event Center) 8pm May 11 - May 15 AP Exam Week 2
May 18 Choir Concert 7pm & 8:30pm
May 26 Senior Picnic (Long Lake Park)
May 20 Knight Time
May 27 Band Concert 8pm
May 20 Senior Recognition Program 6pm May 21 Orchestra Concert 7:30pm May 22 No School
May 13 Knight Time
May 28 Senior Finals (Hrs 4-6) May 29 Senior Finals (Hrs 1-3) May 29 Graduation Rehearsal 11:30am
May 25 No School
Chalkboard Capers Chalkboard Capers is a variety show presented annually by the staff of the Mounds View Education Association. The goal is to raise money for student scholarships given to graduating seniors from Irondale High School, Mounds View High School, REACH Academy, Area Learning Center, and Adult Basic Education. Each scholarship is for $621. The number of scholarships awarded depends on the financial success of the show. Chalkboard Capers 2020: Wednesday, April 1st 5:15 p.m. Thursday, April 2nd 6:30 p.m. Friday, April 3rd 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 4th 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. All Shows are at Mounds View High School. If you have any questions or would like to order tickets, please email us at chalkboardcapers@moundsviewschools.org.
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Get to Know ‘Em Meet Kurt Adolfson
Special Ed Teacher What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? Art class and Art Honor Society with Mr. Zeller. (Yes, Art Honor Society, for artists....) If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? Backpacking and fishing in the mountains. The solitude, the fishing, and the outdoors! What’s your favorite go to snack? Mints...followed closely by fresh fruit What is your favorite thing about Irondale? The students!!
Meet Dahsol Lee Special Ed Teacher What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? I graduated from Mankato East High School in Mankato, MN. My favorite memory is being part of the math team! If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? I would go to Korea to visit family. What’s your favorite go to snack? Cherry tomatoes! What is your favorite thing about Irondale? THE STUDENTS!!! (Knightkrawler Robotics is a close second!)
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Get to Know ‘Em Meet Jason Hollett
Dean of Students (Ge-J) What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? I grew up in North Pole, Alaska and the town is all Christmas themed. It seriously looks like Whoville from “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.” There was a local gift shop called the Santa Claus House that received thousands of letters from kids all over the world addressed to Santa. They then sent them to students at the local schools where I was forced to spend the entire month of December every year in English class responding to the letters as Santa. I consider myself a certified Elf and have thought about adding it to my resume. If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? I would probably just go back to Alaska multiple times to see family. I have a lot of nieces and nephews that I miss very much.
What’s your favorite go to snack? Ruffles Sour Cream N’ Cheddar chips with Lay’s French Onion Dip. It’s a strange combination that I discovered by accident, but it was life changing. I’ve gotten a few friends hooked on it now. I’m really trying to start a movement on this one and believe strongly in the mission. What is your favorite thing about Irondale? The culture among our teachers and students is special. I have spent most of my career in middle school so it is fun to see the difference in maturity of our students.
Dean of Students (Su-Z) What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? Winona Cotter. Fave memory...sports, pep rallys, rivalries! If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? Southeast Asia...the pictures of the natural environment and cities I’ve seen are breathtaking! What’s your favorite go to snack? Kettle cut potato chips, sea salt and black pepper, and Top the Tater. Yum. What is your favorite thing about Irondale? The diversity of staff, students, and families!
Meet Mary Ellen Sparrow
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Get to Know ‘Em Meet Abdirizak Abdi
Associate Principal What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? My favorite high school experience was the time spent with my friends. If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? I would go to Bali because it offers peace of mind What’s your favorite go to snack? Apples. What is your favorite thing about Irondale? My favorite thing about Irondale is the students and staff. I am glad to have the opportunity to serve them.
Meet David Carlson Special Ed Para What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? I graduated from HERE (Irondale) in 2006. Favorite memories - missing school from being in all the choir groups, along with watching the sport games that my friends were in. (We weren’t the best at most of them, back then.) If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? New Zealand, because all the best and worst movies and shows film there, including, but not limited to, Lord of the Rings and Power Rangers. What’s your favorite go to snack? I’ll take a smoothie or fancy beverage over a snack any day. (Or chewy Gummi treats/Coffee) What is your favorite thing about Irondale? Not just how unique each of the students I’ve had the opportunity to work with are, but also how amazing and caring the staff is! (No lies)
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Get to Know ‘Em Meet Amy Carruth
Social Studies Teacher What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? Hanging out in the music rooms where we could play on instruments/keyboards, as well as listen to music! Ounsdale High School, Staffordshire, England. If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? Italy! For my first ‘real’ job, I taught English there for a year and loved it. Anywhere on or around the Amalfi Coast or back to Puglia where I lived would be perfect. Great history, food, and weather. What’s your favorite go to snack? Salt and vinegar kettle chips (or Walkers salt and vinegar crisps if I’m back in the UK!). What is your favorite thing about Irondale? Getting to work with some amazing students and staff every day! (..and the snacks in the Social Studies office!)
Meet Tami Ryther Student Services - Testing Coordinator What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? Having the unique opportunity of attending a few different schools during my high school years, I would have to say that the people I met, and relationships formed, was definitely a favorite memory. My friends were very diverse as far as economics, culture, race, and social status. I feel it added value to my life as a high school student, and helped to shape the person I am today. I am thankful I still have contact with some of those influential friends. If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? I would love to visit Paris! I’d take a cruise on the Seine River, take selfies with my hubby in front of the Eiffel Tower, experience the culture, the amazing architecture, and enjoy the history of one of the most beautiful cities in the world. What’s your favorite go to snack? Protein bars, almonds, beef jerky, and blueberries. What is your favorite thing about Irondale? I appreciate the diverse student population, culture, and community. The staff are friendly and make a person feel welcome. I have also enjoyed learning some of the history of the school, the building additions that have been added through the years, and future plans that are in the works. It is an exciting time for Irondale, and I’m happy to be a part of it.
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Get to Know ‘Em Meet Breanna Peloquin
Administrative Intern What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? My greatest high school memories revolve around being at school events with friends, whether it was sporting events or other school activities. But...Friday night football games rank pretty high on my list of favorites. If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? I would love to travel to Ireland; it has always been a dream of mine. The landscape is beautiful and offers many opportunities to hike and explore. What’s your favorite go to snack? Cheese and crackers What is your favorite thing about Irondale? The welcoming vibe I get from staff and students. I enjoy getting to touch base with staff and students in the hallways, at lunch, and when I am able to stop into classrooms.
Meet Kevin Hillman Dean of Students (Mi-Pen) What is your favorite memory from your own high school experience? Playing on athletic teams and memories of our long bus rides. If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why? Europe....to visit sites of historical significance. What’s your favorite go to snack? Chocolate Chip Cookies. What is your favorite thing about Irondale? Working with my supportive colleagues.
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From the Deans Desk Sarah Hatalla Last Name A-Ce 651-621-6829 sarah.hatalla@moundsviewschools.org
Renee Markas Last Name Ch-Ga 651-621-6814 renee.markas@moundsviewschools.org
Jason Hollett Last Name Ge-J 651-621-6828 jason.hollett@moundsviewschools.org
Jennifer Moren Last Name K-Me 651-621-6830
jennifer.moren@moundsviewschools.org
Kevin Hillman Last Name Mi-Pen 651-621-6835 kevin.hillman@moundsviewschools.org
Cristin Craig Last Name Per-St 651-621-6833 cristin.craig@moundsviewschools.org
Mary Ellen Sparrow Last Name Su-Z 651-621-6831
maryellen.sparrow@moundsviewschools.org
Chelsey Branham Support Services 651-621-6832
chelsey.branham@moundsviewschools.org
Jason Hollet, Mary Ellen Sparrow , Sarah Hatalla, Renee Markas, Chelsey Branham, Jennie Moren, Kevin Hillman, Cristin Craig
Needing Math Help?
A reminder for Intermediate Algebra, Geometry, and Advanced Algebra students - Room 210 offers after school support. Tuesdays - Thursdays until 4:30pm. Hope to see you there!
Registration
Student Services has been busy thinking about the 2020-2021 school year. We recently made our way to the middle schools to help students register for courses. Each dean brought a couple of current Knights to help students understand what it means to be an Irondale Knight. At Irondale, as we wrapped up the semester, we went into social studies classes to discuss the 20-21 school year and registration. Registration begins February 3, in English courses. As always, refer to your 4-year plan, talk with your teachers and trusted adults, and seek assistance from your dean if necessary.
NAMI - Ending the Silence
On February 12, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) will be at Irondale High School during Knight Time for students who are interested. NAMI’s presentation is called Ending the Silence. This 50-minute long presentation will discuss mental health, the stigma behind mental illness, warning signs of mental illness, how to get help, suicide prevention, and how to stop the stigma. Reach out to your dean with questions!
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Post-Secondary Michael Werner Coordinator of Post-Secondary Planning 651-621-6834 michael.werner@moundsviewschools.org
College Applications Remain Open
As Irondale seniors continue to determine what is next for them following graduation, college and university applications remain open. Seniors are encouraged to complete applications as soon as possible. Though many colleges and universities continue to accept applications, many have deadlines of March 1. Seniors can find application deadlines on the admission websites at colleges and universities.
FAFSA
The 2020-2021 FAFSA is now open. Students and families can complete the FAFSA in preparation for post-secondary enrollment for 2020-2021. Student and families hoping to access federal grants, state grants, and loans must complete the FAFSA. FAFSA information is located here. Resources, information, and help completing the FAFSA is available at Federal Student Aid, an Office of the U.S. Department of Education.
Minnesota Office of Higher Education
The Minnesota Office of Higher Education is an additional, excellent resource for students and families seeking information about post-secondary plans. The Minnesota Office of Higher Education offers publications, information, and materials covering the college search process, the financial aid process, and additional paying for college resources.
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded based on criteria such as: academic or athletic achievement, cultural or religious background, or special skills and talents. Students and families can find scholarships through community organizations, foundations, corporations, clubs, civic, and cultural groups. Students and families can use a variety of Scholarship Searches to locate scholarships as well. Recommended Scholarship Searches include: Collegenet FastWeb Minnesota Institutional Scholarships Scholarships.com
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Post-Secondary Genesys Works
What is Genesys Works? Genesys Works is a non-profit organization that provides opportunities for students to work in meaningful, paid internships at major corporations and receive free college, scholarship, and financial aid assistance during their senior year of high school. What are the benefits of participating? Genesys Works can provide you with the chance to pursue opportunities! • Gain real-world skills like public speaking, Microsoft Office, business technology, teamwork, and more – all while having fun! • Earn a paid corporate internship where students will work for 12 months at one of the top companies in the Twin Cities like 3M, Medtronic, Ecolab, or Target earning $14,000 your senior year! • Make a plan for your future because 100% of our students are accepted to college and we will help you create a plan based on what your goals are for after high school! Who are we looking for? We are seeking students who are interested in having a successful professional career and want to be exposed to a business environment before starting college. While our internships are technology and business focused, we do not require any prior knowledge of technology or business. We will teach you everything you need to know! How do I learn more information? We believe you would be a great fit for this program! If this is an opportunity you want to learn more about: Please sign up to learn more information.
Equity Promise The Equity Promise
Mounds View Public Schools is committed to preparing all students for opportunities of their choice after high school, whether they choose college, a trade school, technical college, the military, or employment. The Equity Promise states: • Programs and services will be in place at all schools to ensure that race, gender, class, and disability will not predict students’ success in Mounds View Public Schools. • Student academic performance will not fall into patterns identifiable by factors such as race, ethnicity, English language proficiency, socio-economic status, and disability. • The school that a student attends will not be the predictor of his/her school success. As part of this Pre-K - 14 plan, a brochure was created to show the 12 Habits of Mind students can begin to practice as early as in elementary school.
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Equity Services Equity Specialists
Ray Kid 651-621-6836
raymond.kidd@moundsviewschools.org
Nawal Muhumed 651-621-6984
nawal.muhumed@moundsviewschools.org
Vivian Chavez 651-621-6849 vivian.chavez@moundsviewschools.org
Integration & Equity Liasons
Integration and equity liaisons are available for translations and to meet the educational and cultural needs of students and their families.
Basimo Mohamed Somali Liaison 651-724-7482 basimo.mohamed@moundsviewschools.org
Jill Spencer Native American Liaison 651-341-1793 jill.spencer@moundsviewschools.org
Angel Toro Mee Yang Spanish/Latino/Hispanic Liaison Hmong/Asian Liaison 651-724-2854 651-724-0396 angel.toro@moundsviewschools.org mee.yang@moundsviewschools.org
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Equity Services Student Groups • GIRLS Girls Inspire Revolutionary Leaders Tuesdays 3:30-4:30pm Room 308 • East African Club Thursdays 3:30-4:30pm Room 308
• Black Student Union Wednesdays 3:30-4:30pm Room 317 • Latino Club Mondays 3:15-4:15pm Room 111
• STRIPES S.T.R.I.P.E.S. is a mentoring program to inspire youth to recognize the importance and purpose of education in school. Students will get a chance to meet successful professionals and have the opportunity to ask important questions pertaining to “why” is education so important. They will experience life-long connections with positive adults to help them reach their full potential. Our students will also understand what resources are available for them to focus on post-secondary school. S.T.R.I.P.E.S. focuses on these important life skills: problem solving, self-control, leadership, responsible decision making, how to navigate through our education system, and advocate for themselves. This is our mission of the STRIPES program. Wednesdays During Knight Time
Clubs • Earth Club Thursdays - Room 126 7:45-8:20am • Math Team Mondays and Thursdays - Room 219 3:20-4:20pm • I.C.F. Thursdays - Room 338 7:30am
• Gay Straight Aliance Thursdays - Room 219 3:15-4:15pm • Super Smash Brothers Ultimate Wednesdays - Room 311 3:15pm • Dungeons & Dragons Club Wednesdays - Room 122 3:15pm
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Health Office News Immunization Law Change for 2020/2021 Minnesota law requires that all children get vaccinated against certain diseases or have a legal exemption on file to enroll in school. Students entering 12th grade for the 2020-2021 school year need to have documentation or a legal exemption for the booster dose of the meningococcal vaccine. Most children received the initial dose of this vaccine when they entered 7th grade. Teenagers and young adults are at higher risk for meningococcal disease. This dose is important to make sure they are fully protected through their highest-risk years. Please schedule an appointment with your student’s health care provider to get this vaccine, or get a legal exemption before school starts in the fall. Ask your health care provider if you are eligible to receive free or low-cost vaccinations if you are concerned about costs. Return updated immunization records or legal exemptions to the health office at Irondale High School. For a current copy of your teen’s vaccination record, call the Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) at 651-201-3980. For more information on meningococcal disease, go to Meningococcal Disease Basics on the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) website. If you need exemption information, the Immunization Form is available on the MDH website
Feeling ill in school? As a friendly reminder from the Health Office, please note the following: If your child is not feeling well during the school day and would like to go home, please ask them to check out through the Health Office. The Licensed Health Specialist will connect with parents of ill students to discuss a plan for the remainder of the day. This process is important to follow in order to ensure attendance is marked accurately and students are accounted for while they are at school.
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Knight to Know The KNIGHT TO KNOW program recognizes one 9th, 10th, 11th, and two 12th grade students each month. Recipients of the KNIGHT TO KNOW award are recognized for having demonstrated significant growth or embodying the skills of the 5 Irondale Core Values for Post-Secondary Success in the classroom or other school community activities.
Fall Knight to Know Recipients Nura Agami
Senior Nominated by: Ms. Schned For: Dignity (Pride and self-respect) Ms. Schned said: Nura takes so much pride in the work that she does. She puts in significant effort and thinks about assignments and her work in unique and original ways. She is engaged in important issues in the world and speaks about them confidently and in a way that honors and respects others.
Ajahnna Chicone-Gaines
Junior Nominated by: Mr. Eromobor For: Growth (The ability to develop and evolve) Mr. Eromobor said: Ajahnna has come a long way since her Freshman year. I have watched her grow and become a much more responsible person. She focuses on completing her assignments and she is respectful towards staff and peers. Ajahnna tends to avoid negative influences and situations. Bravo!
Kwame Herzog
Senior Nominated by: Mr. Tschida For: Growth (The ability to develop and evolve) Mr. Tschida said: Recently, Kwame shared with me his trip to west Africa. He shared with me how this experience resulted in him developing new thoughts on African life. What impressed me was his excitement in wanting to share his evolution in his views on Africa.
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Knight to Know Molly McNeil
Sophomore Nominated by: Ms. Goudy For: Dignity (Pride and self-respect) Ms. Goudy said: Molly is a very responsible and a self-motivated learner. She takes pride in her work and seeks out challenges.
Brooklynn Oliver
Freshman Nominated by: Mr. Franta For: Perseverance (Continuing to do something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success) Mr. Franta said: Brooklyn exhibits scholarly behavior as seen through her academic works. She is very willing to share experiences and knowledge in class, and is very mature in her interactions.
Ray Perez Martinez
Senior Nominated by: Ms. Zappa For: Agency (Ability to make choices to create specific results; self-efficacy) Ms. Zappa said: Ray is laser-focused on his future and making choices NOW that will lead him to his desired end result (anesthesiologist). He sets very high standards for himself and works hard to earn impressive grades in school while also holding a part-time job. This kid is going places, I just know it!!!
Ian Peterson
Sophomore Nominated by: Mr. Jenson For: Perseverance (Continuing to do something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success) Mr. Jenson said: Ian is continually looking for clarity, asking questions, and persisting to understand difficult concepts.
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Knight to Know Marinel Tansia
Junior Nominated by: Mr. Ludwikowski For: Perseverance (Continuing to do something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success) Mr. Ludwikowski said: Marinel came to Irondale after a couple weeks of school had gone by. She quickly caught on to what we were learning, and pushed to understand everything. When her peers are struggling, she is helpful in explaining things to them.
Jarvis (JT) Tolbert
Freshman Nominated by: Mr. Jenson For: Authentic Relationships (The opportunity to growth with, learn from, and value each other) Mr. Jenson said: JT is an incredibly genuine person. It is apparent that he values his peers and the staff at Irondale and is willing to do anything to help them.
Winter Knight to Know Recipients Enis Avdiu
Senior Nominated by: Ms. Clemson For: Growth (The ability to develop and evolve) Ms. Clemson said: Enis has done an amazing job in Credit Plus. He openly admits that he made some poor academic choices when he was a freshman and sophomore, but as a senior, he has grown incredibly and is making the right choices. He was able to recover three classes in just a few months because he focused, worked hard, and never gave up. Way to go, Enis!
Ida Cham
Senior Nominated by: Ms. Stiles For: Perseverance (Continuing to do something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success) Ms. Stiles said: Ida has consistently shown her dedication to learning in AP Psych. Often, she will visit early in the morning to ask questions, clarify her understanding of a concept, or take advantage of relearning opportunities. Ida is not deterred by academic challenges and tackles them with tenacity to achieve the desired result.
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Knight to Know Maddie Dahm
Sophomore Nominated by: Mr. Etten For: Authentic Relationships (The opportunity to growth with, learn from, and value each other) Mr. Etten said: Maddie demonstrates care for all people in Knightingales Choir every day. She is hard working, pushing her self and others to achieve at a high level, and yet is always thoughtful and compassionate with the people around her. This kindness helps everyone in the room achieve at a higher level.
Lauren Key
Sophomore Nominated by: Ms. Carruth For: Perseverance (Continuing to do something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success) Ms. Carruth said: Lauren has persisted throughout the Semester to improve her performance in US History. Week-in, week-out she is willing to go the extra mile to understand the topic better, regularly coming to Knight Time to work on her knowledge and do better. Great attitude that will serve her well in life!
Reuben King Jr.
Junior Nominated by: Ms. Yff For: Growth (The ability to develop and evolve) Ms. Yff said: Reuben has grown significantly in AP World history. This class is TOUGH and he continues to push himself and has seen tremendous academic growth. I am so proud of him and fortunate to have him in my class. Way to go Reuben!
A’Maria Miller
Freshman Nominated by: Ms. Zurn For: Growth (The ability to develop and evolve) Ms. Zurn said: A’Maria has developed into a very diligent worker, who strives to be the best version of herself every day. She asks clarifying questions to learn rather than just getting the answers. Her transition from the middle school has been great and I can not wait to see how much more she will grow throughout her time at Irondale.
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Knight to Know Tenzin Namgyal
Junior Nominated by: Ms. Bosneag For: Perseverance (Continuing to do something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success) Ms. Bosneag said: Tenzin goes above and beyond every day in the classroom. If he does not understand something, he always asks questions and for help, but he never gives up. I also find him often helping other students in the class. He’s a great student!
Mariah Ware
Freshman Nominated by: Ms. Clemson For: Agency (Ability to make choices to create specific results; self-efficacy) Ms. Clemson said: Mariah has shown agency and growth by telling me that she doesn’t read much outside of class and asking me to help her find books she might like so that she can become a better independent reader. I love that she had the courage and initiative to do that! It had nothing to do with a class assignment--this was all about her wanting to improve herself.
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Achievements & Awards National Board Certification Andrea Butler was one of eleven teachers in Minnesota to attain National Board Certification this year. Certification is a rigorous process through which teachers demonstrate their ability to meet high national standards. A few special guests visited Irondale to celebrate her accomplishment. The guests were: MN Dept of Education Commissioner Mary Cathryn Ricker, Superintendent Chris Lennox, and Peggy Brookings, the President of the National Board who flew in from Washington D.C. for the day.
Voice of Democracy Essay Winner Vincent Thai is the winner of the Voice of Democracy Essay contest. Students from Irondale High School wrote and recorded an essay with the topic of “What Makes America Great.” The submissions were judged and Vincent Thai had the Irondale winning submission, for which he received a cash prize. This moved him on to the VFW District 4 competition, which encompasses Ramsey County and a bit of eastern Washington County in MN. Vincent’s essay was awarded a Runner Up certificate and a cash prize in the District 4 competition as well. Congratulations to Vincent and thank you to VFW Post 724 in New Brighton for sponsoring this contest each year for students to share their thoughts and writings.
Pictured with Vincent are: German Teacher Jill Hallenberger, VFW Post 3723 Auxiliary member; Robert Webster, Commander Post 724 New Brighton; and Principal Amy Janecek
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Construction Update The excitement is building IHS Construction Accomplishments: Library East and West • Classrooms up and running • New furniture is here Courtyard Addition • Furniture has been delivered • Occupancy will take place starting second semester South Addition (main office) • Exterior is bricked • Prep work began Dec. 30 for the roof – duration 2 weeks • Thaw ground to pour concrete - completed mid January Auditorium Addition • Forming and pouring footings continue – completion date Jan. 15 • Green room concrete wall – start date – mid January • Waterproofing continues as the walls are poured • Auditorium wall placement is set to begin the week of Jan. 20
Parking lot
Looking ahead – tentative dates: February • Concrete slab complete in the south addition • South addition roof complete • Long span joist install begins - auditorium March • Roofing begins - auditorium April • Prep and pour concrete floor – auditorium September • South addition complete January • Auditorium online – (pending weather)
Think SPRING - the fence is up around the baseball field
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Construction Update
Footings for the new auditorium addition
The west wall is poured
The outline of the auditorium
Future stage
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Construction Update
Future orchestra pit
The stadium seating is being backfilled
Entrance from the courtyard
Courtyard windows are installed
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Construction Update
The new furniture has arrived in the courtyard addition
Breakout spaces complete
White boards and the new Clevertouch (smartboards) are installed
Different seating options in breakout space
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Construction Update
The south wall of the new admin wing
The block work is underway on the south addition
View from the west side of the auditorium at the new south wing and new school entrance
View of the new south wing from the parking lot
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Construction Update
The ADA ramp
The south addition will get roofed in the coming weeks
Removing the frost takes time. The sand is heated to remove the frost so concrete can be poured
Working behind the poly - the mortar needs to be over 40 degrees fahrenheit to cure correctly
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Athletics & Activites Athletics/Activities Schedules Schedules are available online on the Athletics/Activities website and /or suburbaneast.org. Schedule changes are posted as they become available.
Girls Soccer Addie Harsch will be playing for DII Upper Iowa University’s women’s soccer next fall.
Girls Hockey Jennifer Rupp, Irondale/St. Anthony’s goaltender, was selected as the MN Girls’ Hockey Hub Top Performer for the week of December 2-7. The freshman’s first shutout came at a perfect time, as the Knights needed every one of her 33 saves to edge White Bear Lake 1-0 on December 7.
Football Noah Kiani, Jr. was the recipient of the All-Metro Football First-team kicker/punter award. He finished 18-for-18 on point-after attempts and made all eight field-goal attempts, including four from 40 to 49 yards. Noah averaged 31.8 yards per punt.
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Athletics & Activites Boys Hockey Junior hockey player, Elijah Kaasa, was chosen as the winner for the week of January 10, for the Old Dutch High School Athlete of the Week Award! Elijah was recognized on WCCO-AM 830 during the “Sports To The Max” show with Mike Max, and “The WCCO Morning News With Dave Lee.” He will also be featured online by the MSHSL and Old Dutch, and will receive a commemorative plaque for this recognized achievement at a later date.
NHS The Irondale chapter of National Honor Society has had a busy and exciting fall semester. In October, we had the opportunity to welcome 96 juniors. This year’s candidates were not only amazing scholars, but clearly demonstrated leadership qualities in their extracurricular activities and community service. We are excited to have them in our chapter and helping us serve the Irondale Community. The Annual Memorial Blood Drive was also a huge success this fall. Victoria Tholkes (12th) and Lindsey Preston (12 ) coordinated the event with the help of Tianna Creighton (11th) and Cat Hoang (11th). Our drive was the most successful in Irondale history, collecting 103 units, saving 309 lives. This represented a 116% increase from previous years. th
Looking ahead to February, our officers Charles Schumer, Laura Le, and Sydney Mulvehill are planning a chapter project to sponsor a Kindness Week at Irondale. The week will include random acts of kindness throughout the week, culminating in serving senior citizens in our community.
KnightKrawler Robotics Knightkrawler spins up for the new season. KnightKrawler Robotics hosted FIRST robotics competition (FRC) kickoff at Irondale High School on Saturday, January 4, with Centennial’s Centurions (team 2472), Totino Grace’s Pizza p’s (team 7038), Mounds View’s Wildcards (team 3407), Spring Lake Park’s Panthanuinators (team 3699), and Irondale’s Knightkrawler (team 2052). Teams joined the global FIRST community to watch the show leading up to the field and game animation reveal in the Irondale auditorium. Then, teams gathered in the IMC to learn about the new game and develop strategies for the new FRC season. In this year’s game, a meteor shower is aimed at FIRST City, but its shield is down. To save FIRST City, teams must: Collect and score in (hexagon and oval) power cells (balls) Rotate a ‘control panel’ (wheel) to set the shield generator Climb onto the shield generator to activate it Our Week Zero (mock competition) is February 15, at Irondale and our Robot Reveal is February 21!
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Athletics & Activites Student Council It has been very busy at Irondale these past couple of months. At the end of November, Student Council hosted “Cider with Council� before school. Students came in and enjoyed a warm cup of cider to start their day.
In December, Council teamed up with the New Brighton/Mounds View Rotary to host the third annual Harvest Pack event. Classes and community members volunteered to help pack meals that were then distributed to the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf and other local organizations that help families in need. Together, they packed 36,160 meals!!
After winter break, students were welcomed back with hot cocoa, sponsored by Student Council, to enjoy a cup at the start of their day. Just before the end of the semester, Irondale and Mounds View Student Councils worked together to host the second annual Mustang Knight Out. There was a week full of spirit, including dress up days and a 3v3 basketball tournament. The week was to end on Saturday night with a combined black light dance at Mounds View High School, which unfortunately was postponed due to inclement weather. The semester has ended here at Irondale and students are looking forward to their new classes and schedules!
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Athletics & Activites Drama Irondale’s drama department performed the classic Bye-Bye Birdie for the fall musical this year. It received Top Honors from the Spotlight Educational Program, sponsored by Hennepin Theater Trust, and will once again be performed at The State Theater in June!! This will be Irondales 4th consecutive year at the big show. Go Irondale Drama!! This was followed by auditions for Frozen Jr., which was this year’s children’s show. As you might imagine, this was a very popular show and was loved by all who attended! This was also their first Family Fun Day on the Sunday performance. Families were invited to come early and enjoyed a bouncy house and various activities available for kids to participate in! Much fun was had by all! The Winter One Act titled, The Laramie Project, was presented on Tuesday, January 21. The spring show is yet to be determined, but we hope everyone will audition or come to see it!
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Athletics & Activites Drama
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Athletics & Activites DECA Over 30 Marketing (DECA) students attended a job shadow in late November in downtown Minneapolis at RSM Auditing Firm. Students were able to work with business professionals and role play multiple customer scenarios. This included opportunities to practice effective decision making and execute sales pitches to account executives to gain new clients and acquire annual revenue. Everyone learned about consequences of good business decisions and various career opportunities in marketing, business, and industry.
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Athletics & Activites DECA Marketing (DECA) Students participated in the Central Region Leadership Conference hosted in MN and attended by 13 different states. At the three day conference, students engaged in practice competitions including tests and role-plays, as well as leadership sessions, and many seminars conducted by industry professionals in the areas of business and marketing. Students also participated in a college and career fair, networked, and heard from inspirational keynote speakers during their packed three days of conference activities.
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Athletics & Activites Nordic Ski The nordic ski team has been enjoying an old school winter! The snow has been great for training and racing! Over the winter break, the team took it’s annual training trip to Wolverine Village ski area in Ironwood, MI. Over 30 students skied for three days on some great trails! Several parents helped cook food (breakfast, lunch, and dinner!) for the skiers and coaches!
C I D R NO KI S
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Athletics & Activites Nordic Ski
In early January, the Knights competed in the Loppet Invitational, a big meet held at Theodore Wirth Park. The team had great success.
Boys team was 6th-14 teams Declan Rodefeld was 2nd in the 5km skate race! Simon Alexander and Tommy Davis were 8th-10 teams in the sprint finals!
Girls team was 3rd-14 teams Siri Stolen and Elizabeth VanLoon were sprint relay Champions! Iva Hammitt and Dasha Fruzyna were 5th-10 teams in the sprint finals!
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Around the Realm G.I.R.L, S.T.R.I.P.E.S, & BSU Students from G.I.R.L, S.T.R.I.P.E.S, and BSU participated in a Culturally Responsive Research Trip through Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama learning about historic civil rights monuments, sites, and history, while also visiting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (Fisk,Tennessee St. University, Spelman, Clark, and Morehouse).
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Around the Realm G.I.R.L, S.T.R.I.P.E.S, & BSU
Business & Marketing Business and Marketing classes enjoyed a mini-college fair and admissions panel from program representatives from: Carlson School of Management (U of M), Opus College of Business (University of St. Thomas), St. Paul College, Bethel University, and Century College. Students learned about options for program majors, admissions standards, and hot trends in business and industry for a wide variety of careers in business and marketing.
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Around the Realm Orchestra On November 7, Dr. Rafael Rodriguez, professor of orchestral studies at Augsburg University guest conducted the Irondale orchestras during class. Dr. Rodriguez’s passion for music and life poured into the students and helped them to see the importance of expressing themselves through music. He will return in February with orchestra students from Costa Rica and their conductor.
Dr. Ruth Lin, professor of orchestral studies at Gustavus Adolphus College came to Irondale on November 18, to work with all the orchestras. This is the third year Dr. Lin has come to work with the orchestra students and each year they look forward to her visit. She emphasizes the importance of each student taking responsibility for the music while working together as a team.
Dr. Ruth Lin with the Varsity Orchestra
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Around the Realm Orchestra Chamber Orchestra played at the NHS reception after the Induction Ceremony on November 12.
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Around the Realm Orchestra On December 12, the Irondale orchestra seniors played holiday music for the residents at Bel Rae Senior Living Home. Many of the residents sang along with the musicians as they played. It was a lovely way to connect, build community, and spread holiday joy.
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Around the Realm Guyz Group & Diva Guyz Group and Diva sang carols at the Benedictine Health Center in New Brighton on Tuesday, December 17. They also sang for the New Brighton-Mounds View Rotary Club and for students at Edgewood and Highview.
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Around the Realm Week of Giving During December, DECA hosted the 25th Annual Week of Giving, providing support for Irondale students and families in need with great community collaborations and sponsorship. Each day of the week-long event, local restaurants provided a full lunch for the class that collected the most donations. This included incredible meals from ChickFil-A, Famous Dave’s, Acapulco, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Adagio’s Pizza! Additionally, the Abiding Savior Church partnered with the marketing program to help provide over 30 containers of meals for families over break that included breakfast, lunch, and dinner items as well as snacks, toiletries, and even new winter gear for those cold Minnesota days. Over $8500 in donated items were received and were distributed to students over the winter break and throughout the rest of the school year. This inclusive community event is embraced by students and staff alike, and helps to support those within our Irondale community and truly exemplified the spirit of giving!
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Around the Realm Dance Team
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Around the Realm Dance Team