New Year’s Wishes
Centennial school district looks to expand
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
CENTERVILLE — The Centennial School District is planning for the future by creating a 10-year facilities and enrollment plan based on student enrollment trends, educational capacity
relative to providing current and future programming, facility space for co-curricular opportunities now and in the future, and facility deferred maintenance needs.
“Over the past 18 months, we have been doing a lot of long-range planning (for) the next 10 years, looking at all of our facilities within
Planning and Zoning Board discusses cannabis
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — At its most recent meeting, the Lino Lakes Planning and Zoning Board discussed the possible regulations and zoning requirements for cannabis businesses within city limits.
Adult-use cannabis was legalized by the state Legislature in 2023 and signed into law in 2024. In response to the legalization of cannabis in the state of Minnesota, cities are required to amend their zoning code to reflect the changes that have been set by the state.
The law also created the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to oversee the implementation and regulation of the adult-use cannabis market, the medical cannabis market and the consumer hemp industry. Beginning in 2025, the OCM will be responsible for licensing cannabis businesses. There are 13 different types of business licenses.
the district, looking at enrollment trends and educational capacity,” said Superintendent Jeff Holmberg at a Centerville Planning and Zoning Comission Meeting .
Within the Centennial School District, there are five elementary schools, a middle school, a high school and a facility at the Lino Lakes Correctional Facility.
“What we are really trying to do, as well look at that investment in our communities, is look at how we continue to plan for our students and how do we continue to create spaces for our students educationally,” Holmberg added.
The district is looking to build at 1687 Westview Street in Centerville, also known as the LaLonde property. The size of the property is 2.79 acres. It was purchased by the district in November 2024 for $1.2 million from David and Cheri Chadima, the previous property owners.
SEE CENTENNIAL PLAN, PAGE 6 CONTRIBUTED
While the law provides certain means of oversight by local units in government, the city cannot outright ban a cannabis business or limit operations in a manner beyond those provided in state law. The city can limit the number of retailers and businesses with retail endorsements allowed within the community.
“We can limit the number of places that can actually sell cannabis,” said Michael Grochala, the city’s community development director. “We are required to allow one license per 12,500 people. At this point, the council is considering limiting to that minimum, which would be the two (licenses), but that is kind of the baseline, or we can choose not to limit it at all.”
Retail businesses will be required to register with the city. Grochala said this means that when the business receives the state license, it has to also register the business with the city and meet the city’s retail requirements.
Currently, the state law allows sales between the hours of 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday. Sales are allowed on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
, PAGE 2
The Centerville City Council has approved the purchase agreements between the Centennial School District and David and Cheri Chadima, the previous property owners.
CANNABIS LAWS: Commissioners express concern, thoughts about regulations
“We have a little bit of flexibility in those (hours),” Grochala explained.
“We can actually bring down the Monday nighttime close hour to 10 p.m. if we so choose. We can also extend the Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. opening time to 10 a.m. to match Sunday.”
The city also may choose to regulate the location of such businesses through the use of buffers. This means that the city may choose to prohibit the operation of a cannabis business up to 1,000 feet from a school and 500 feet from a day care, residential treatment facility or an attraction within a public park that is regularly used by minors.
“We are trying to be fairly consistent with our liquor license, which really only dictates the 0-1,000 feet (requirement). We require a distance of 1,000 feet from a school (for the liquor ordinance),” Grochala added.
Cities may also determine which zoning districts are compatible with proposed cannabis business types. In Lino Lakes, a cannabis business licensed or endorsed for cultivation
would be permitted as an agricultural use and would be permitted indoors and outdoors in the rural district. A cannabis manufacturer would be a permitted manufacturing use in the light industrial and general industrial districts. A cannabis business endorsed for low-potency hemp edible manufacturers can be permitted as a manufacturing use in the industrial districts.
Other cannabis-related businesses include wholesale, cannabis retail, cannabis transportation and cannabis delivery.
“The closer we keep this to our liquor ordinance the better, let’s not over complicate it,” said Board Member Perry Laden. “But, to me, that also includes the number of retail locations. We don’t limit the number of liquor stores we have; I don’t think we should be limiting the number of retail cannabis stores we have. I think we should let that be dictated by the market and not limiting ourselves to two.”
Board Member Isaac Wipperfurth agreed with city staff’s suggestion to only have indoor cannabis
growth at businesses located within the industrial district. He did raise concerns regarding outdoor cultivation in rural areas, the odors generated by the crop, and whether there are ways to restrict outdoor cannabis growth.
“We can discuss with the city attorney whether or not we can establish something within the individual district restrictions, whether it’s some sort of setback or buffer in place (to help with odor),” Grochala responded.
Board Member Suzy Guthmueller expressed her concerns with how the state has been handling cannabis businesses and regulations.
“The state has taken this on and has blown this up into such a disaster,” she said. “They have no guidance, no regulation. They keep delaying and moving things forward because they can’t figure it out, but they’ve got all these requirements on a city to make sure we have to allow this. I think that’s something that they need to look at. I don’t know that a city should have to follow all the rules they have set forth because they don’t even
Judge denies developer’s request to end mortarium
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES— The city will not need to end its residential moratorium in the northwest quadrant early after a federal judge denied developer Faraaz Mohammed’s request.
Plantiffs Jameel Ahmed and Mohammed (also known as Yussuf), of Zikar Holdings LLC claimed the Madinah Lakes project was discriminated against because Lino Lakes “does not want Muslims in their city.”
In March 2024, Zikar posted a promotional video about the desired development on its website. It received negative reviews from Lino Lakes residents who voiced concerns about the proposed development’s Islamic affiliation. Soon after, an online group was formed in opposition. The group then began calling and messaging city staff with concerns about the proposed development.
During that same time period, Council Member Michael Ruhland raised concerns regarding water capacity and whether the infrastructure would be able to serve a new residential development. Ruhland recommended a moratorium on the residential development to see what the future capacity of water is and what the infrastructure could sustain.
The moratorium, covering a 980-acre area that includes the proposed project site, passed 4-1. It lasts one year, unless extended by the city.
In October 2024, the city and two of its council members, Ruhland and Christopher Lyden, were named as defendants in a federal lawsuit that claimed a residential development moratorium is discriminatory
(See “Lawsuit filed against 2 Lino Lakes council members, Quad Community Press, Oct. 1, 2024.)
However, the preliminary injunction was denied. The court found that, based on the preliminary record, the plaintiffs hadn’t demonstrated irreparable harm in the absence of an injunction.
“Here, Plaintiffs are likely to show that the Moratorium might have delayed Plaintiff’s ability to build a place of worship and potential future residences near it in the northwest corner of Lino Lakes,” wrote U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Bryan in the court documents. “The language of the Moratorium, however, places no permanent restrictions on Plantiff’s ability to build anything and perhaps, more importantly, it places no restriction on Plantiff’s ability to seek development of a mosque elsewhere in the City or to worship elsewhere in the City. Plantiffs have therefore not shown that they are likely to prove the Moratorium was a ‘substantial burden’ on their ability to practice Islam.”
know what their rules are.”
She also was in favor of the city allowing two licenses for cannabis businesses and restricting the hours of operation for those establishments.
“If we can’t bring other business into Lino Lakes, why are we going to be offering more cannabis licenses? I would rather have restaurants and places that people are going to go. If you want to go to a liquor store, if you want to go to a cannabis establishment, you’re going to be able to find that.”
It is anticipated that the City Council will consider the cannabis registration requirements this month. The council will consider any proposed zoning amendment in February.
No formal action was taken by the Planning and Zoning Board. It was discussion only.
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
Walk, snowshoe or ski by candlelight
Each winter, candlelight events at Minnesota state parks, recreation areas and trails encourage people to get outdoors. The events feature trails lit up at night with candles, lanterns and other luminaries. Depending on the location of the event and the amount of snow cover, visitors can hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski along the lighted trails.
These trails are suitable for beginners of all ages. In some locations, snowshoes and skis can be rented or checked out at the ranger station or visitor center.
This winter, 19 candle events at 17 different locations are planned between Jan. 3 and Feb. 22. The schedule, including dates, times and other details, can be found online at mndnr.gov/ candlelight.
What’s your radon story?
January is National Radon Action Month. Over the last few years, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has chosen the last week of January to observe Radon Awareness Week.
The awareness campaign sheds light on the dangers of radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the United States after cigarette smoking. Radon is a naturally-occurring, radioactive gas. It is odorless, tasteless and invisible. The scene is your house and your community. The bad guy is radon, an invisible, silent home-invader. You are the main character. Your family, friends and community members are in supporting roles. Your state radon control officer, radon mitigation (reduction) contractor and health care providers may be woven into your story as heroes.
January 27-31 is Radon Awareness Week. This year’s theme is “What’s Your Radon Story?” Each day of the week features facts about radon with related graphics, social media messages and a highlighted radon story:
• Monday: Who is affected by radon?
• Tuesday: What are the health effects of radon?
• Wednesday: Where are people exposed to radon?
• Thursday: When should I install a radon reduction system?
JANUARY 7,
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS:
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Jan. 16; 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited.
Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo. com
LIVE TRIVIA
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Every player will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing to win a free drink. The top three teams will earn a gift card, and the last place team wins a “mini trophy.” Contact: (651) 783-0055
CURRENT EVENTS:
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: OPOSSUMS
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Free naturalist-led program for those 50+. May include trail hike. Registration not required; equipment provided.
Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
When: 12:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9
Where: New Life Church, 600 N. 148th St., Hugo
COMMUNITY BRIEF
Alexandra House receives grant
Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless Foundation has awarded Alexandra House with a $10,000 grant for funding to support the Linus’ Pet Haven, a full-service pet refuge that can house six pets while their pet family seeks housing for themselves or other temporary care for pets.
Since 1986, the Open Your Heart Foundation has ensured that emergency shelters, food shelves and domestic violence shelters throughout Minnesota have the tools, equipment and infrastructure necessary to best serve those in need.
Alexandra House, located in Blaine, was established in 1977 and is the only domestic and sexual violence program in Anoka County. It works with victims of domestic and sexual violence throughout the north metro area. Services include 24-hour emergency shelter, support groups, housing and supportive services support, personal advocacy services, food shelf, a youth services program and more.
Open Your Heart awards funds every three months and provides emergency support within days during a crisis. It supports programs in communities where many traditional funders do not reach — food shelves, domestic violence shelters and homeless programs in small communities and sparsely served remote corners of the state. For more information about Open Your Heart, grantees or the grant application process, visit www.oyh.org. To learn more about Alexandra House Inc., visit www.alexandrahouse.org.
CITY BRIEF
Lexington Planning and Zoning Commission vacancy
The city of Lexington is currently seeking a candidate to fill a vacancy on its Planning and Zoning Commission. The Planning and Zoning Commission holds public hearings and makes recommendations to the City Council and the Board of Appeals and Adjustments where applicable. Its members also review all applications for zoning amendments, conditional use permits and variances.
The commission meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Lexington residents who are interested should submit a letter of interest and employment application to the city. If you have any questions, contact City Administrator Bill Petracek at 763-784-2792.
Details: Donate blood. Register in advance. Contact: redcrossblood.org
FAMILY DANCE PARTY
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10
Where: St. Joe’s Catholic Church, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes
Details: All ages welcome. There will be a preschool playa rea, free carnival-style games, door prizes, refreshment sales and dancing. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Contact: business.areaquadhcamber.org
ECO-ART SERIES: BIRD SEED FEEDER
When: 10- 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Craft, create and connect monthly with nature in new and exciting ways. Registration required. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING SERIES
When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 11
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino
Lakes
Details: Uncover the journey of an animal by the tracks, trails and signs they leave behind. Registration required.
Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
WINTER FARMERS MARKET
When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11
Where: Normandy Park Education Center, 2482 County Road F E., White Bear Lake Details: 20+ farmers and vendors sharing locallygrown food and crafted items and gifts. Most booths inside; firepit and hot cider outdoors. Contact: forksinthedirt.com/winter-farmers-market
WEEKLY WAG
Chippy is a sweetheart who is patiently waiting for her forever home. She is friendly to everyone she meets, and she enjoys playing with other dogs. Chippy is a German shorthair pointer/Labrador retriever mix. She is about 2 years old and weighs 53 pounds.
Chippy is house-trained and crate-trained, and she knows her basic commands. Chippy is playful, affectionate, intelligent and eager to please. She
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937
Annual Skate/Sled Night
When: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10
Where: Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park, 6970 LaMotte Dr., Centerville
Details: Free popcorn, bonfire, hot cocoa and the use of Wargo Nature Center’s snowshoes and kick sleds. Bring your own skates and sleds. Contact: centervillemn.com
likes to play fetch and can keep herself content with her toys. She especially likes going on walks and spending as much time outside as possible. A home with a securely fenced yard where she can run, explore and play would suit her well. She also likes to go for car rides. Chippy is eventempered and gentle. When she’s not playing, she is a wonderful, cuddly lap partner. Chippy arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local shelter and she would be a wonderful addition and companion to a loving family. If you are interested in learning more about Chippy or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.
OPINION
Meeting
Jimmy Carter
Ihave fond memories of our 39th president of the United States which go back to 1977 when he was elected. I was included among six publishers of community weekly newspapers from around the United States to visit with President Carter in the Oval Office to share conditions of the state of the country from a small town perspective.
It was an awesome, almost speechless, experience. I had voted for this president for his fundamental character and Christian principles. He set out to make government competent and compassionate. As we all remember, it was a time of inflation and a difficult time to meet those high expectations.
Another one of our favorite memories includes visiting Plains, GA, while our daughter, Stephanie, spent a year with Habitat for Humanity in nearby Americus, GA. We would visit with Stephanie and go to the president’s church in Plains and sit in on the service as well as his Sunday school class. We were even there on his 70th birthday and had a family picture taken with him.
Jimmy Carter’s contributions were perhaps most significant following his presidency for his leadership in brokering peace and conflict mediation throughout the world.
He was awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.
Carter is the author of 32 books, and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center in Atlanta, GA.
President Carter decided to spend his remaining time at his home with his family and receive hospice care.
Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.
Happy New Year, new beginnings and resolutions
Every January we have a feeling of a new beginning, a fresh opportunity to do better and to be better. This is where new year’s resolutions come from, a promise to begin something new and change ourselves for the better.
Movers & Shakers
Jeff Reinert
This tradition began over 2,000 years ago in Italy during the Roman Empire. The resolutions were mostly moral based, like to be nice to each other, but today can be about anything. Eat better, get in shape, learn something new, volunteer, watch TV less, read more, drink less, travel more and so on.
It sure is easy to make resolutions but keeping them is another thing. The average resolution holder gives up after just two weeks.
As I examine for myself what positive changes I want to make, I also look at my responsibility as your Anoka County Commissioner and how I can improve what I do for you, the residents of Anoka County.
I believe our County Board
failed the residents of Anoka County when it came to the levy increase for 2025. At a time when everyone is experiencing a 21% increase in inflation costs, the county levy increase was almost 17% and passed with a 4 to 3 vote. Staff originally proposed a 24% increase. I was one of the commissioners that fought for a different solution to our county’s financial needs and voted against the increase. Costs are up everywhere including the county, but we did not have to do this and could have had a more moderate increase.
So, one of my new years resolutions is to work harder to find that fourth vote on the county board to make sure this kind of run-away levy increase does not happen again. We need to do better and can.
For 2025 I will be serving on the County Board as Vice Chair. I will also be serving on the following committees. Transportation, Parks (Chair), Public Safety, Management, IT, Finance, Human Services, IG (Intergovernmental & Community Relations) (Chair). IG is responsible for all County legislative priorities, Veterans topics, libraries, DMV and our Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. I will also be serving on Property Records and Taxation, Anoka County Regional Rail Authority, Anoka County Housing and
Redevelopment Authority, Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) Board of Directors, AMC District 10 Executive Committee, National Association of Counties, Airport Committee (Chair), Airport Advisory Committee, Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD), MMCD Executive Committee, East Central Juvenile Center Advisory Board, Elections/Reappointment Board, Anoka County Canvassing Board. I listed my appointments for 2025 to let you know the work I will be doing this year but also to let you know areas in the county where I have a subject matter focus so you can reach out to me if you have any questions. Please contact me anytime about any topic to discuss on the phone or in person your concerns in the upcoming year. Jeff.Reinert@AnokaCountyMN. gov.
Here’s to a great start to 2025 and success with all your New Year’s resolutions. God bless, stay positive, and let’s all keep it going. Thank you for your continued support.
Jeff Reinert is Anoka County Commissioner for District 3, representing Centerville, Circle Pines, Columbus, Lexington, Lino Lakes, Linwood and East Blaine.
Jimmy Carter Funeral Information:
Tuesday, Jan. 7—Jimmy Carter heads to U.S. Capitol Wednesday, Jan. 8 —Jimmy Carter lies in state Thursday, Jan. 9 —Jimmy Carter is laid to rest
Editor’s note: Press Publications is re-running Gene Johnson’s column about meeting Jimmy Carter, in honor of his passing.
• Limited to 350 words.
• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.
• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area. Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
same subject matter will not be published.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat letters by the same writer about the
• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification. All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@ presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
About the Town Gene Johnson
FILE
This photo ran in 1995. Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, GA is where former President Jimmy Carter attends church and teaches a Sunday School class. Following the church service on August 20, the Carters posed with the attenders. Left to right: Kathy Johnson, Rosalyn Carter, President Jimmy Carter, Meredith Johnson, Stephanie Johnson, Melva Struckmann and Gene Johnson.
Talking winter skin health with the U of M
The winter months bring fun activities for those willing to brave the outdoors, but time outside in the dry and cold air can be harsh on our skin. Dr. David Pearson, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota (U of M) Medical School and a dermatologist with M Health Fairview, talks about how to keep your skin healthy during the winter.
Q. What unique challenges does our skin face in the winter?
A. Our skin is our interface with the environment. As temperatures and humidity levels drop, one of the first places we experience this is on our skin — particularly in places like Minnesota, where it gets very cold and dry. Unsurprisingly, a number of studies show that skin and fingernail moisture content is much lower during the winter months. When our skin dries out, its barrier function is compromised and we become more susceptible to external allergens, irritants and even infections. The effects of cold can range from being a nuisance to quite dangerous. Frostbite can occur when the skin temperature drops to 28 F — this only takes about 30 minutes when the thermometer reads 0 F. Our skin isn’t physiologically equipped for unprotected, prolonged exposure to these temperatures, so be sure to wear warm coats, hats and gloves when you’re going outside.
Q. What common skin issues do you see during the winter?
A. We see lots of dry skin, even incidentally, in people who come in for other skin concerns. Winter is often a more difficult time for people with eczema — especially on their hands. Winter itch is a common rash resulting from excessive dryness that resembles a dried-up riverbed, with red, itchy, cracked skin. This is most common on the legs and usually spares body folds and the face, and we treat it with moisturizers and sometimes prescription topical anti-inflammatory medications. We also see many irritant reactions, such as frequent tissue use during respiratory virus season or rashes from licking your lips. I specialize in autoimmune connective tissue diseases and see a lot of Raynaud’s and pernio (chilblains). Raynaud’s is the rapid onset of white or blue discoloration of the fingers and/or toes from cold exposure due to constriction of blood vessels. Pernio is the delayed onset of tender pink bumps on the fingers and toes one to two days after cold exposure.
Q: What are your go-to recommendations for those suffering from dry winter skin?
A: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! It’s pretty intuitive, but it bears repeating. The environment treats our skin differently in the winter and we may have to change our behaviors to acclimate. I recommend a thick moisturizing cream that you have to scoop out of a jar or squeeze out of a tube over
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES
ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
2025 STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT
SAP 244-106-002 & 244-112-001
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bids for the construction of the 2025 Street Rehabilitation Project will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Circle Pines will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 1.312.626.6799 and entering Meeting ID 944 2086 5011 and Passcode 662373. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening. The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of the following approximate quantities:
24,800 S Y Full Depth Reclamation
36,700 S Y Mill Bituminous Surface (2.0”)
8,000 L F Remove and Replace Concrete Curb and Gutter
7,000 TON Type SP 12.5 Wearing Course Mix
3,200 TON Type SP 12.5 Non Wear Course Mix
180 L F 8” PVC Sanitary Sewer
800 L F 15” – 21” RCP Storm Sewer
3,000 L F 4”-12” Pavement Striping Multi Comp The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Circle Pines shall comply with the provisions of the statute. Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www. questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #9433593 on the website’s Project Search page.
The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources. Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.
The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days.
those with a pump handle, which tend to be used for thinner products. I don’t like a lot of additives, perfumes or scents — keep it simple. Ceramides are a good ingredient to look for and may help restore the skin barrier. I also recommend a gentle soap that doesn’t have perfumes or scents, as these can irritate the skin. Some data suggests humidifiers can be helpful in certain circumstances, but probably less so than moisturizers.
Q. Should people still wear sunscreen/SPF in the winter?
A. In short, yes. Getting into a routine with sunscreen improves the consistency of use, so I often recommend working in a combined moisturizer/ SPF product every day. The long answer is a little more nuanced. In Minnesota, our UV index — how much ultraviolet light reaches us — is pretty low in the winter. People’s skin is usually covered up in the winter, but there’s actually a fair amount of reflection of UV light from the snow. Prolonged exposure through outdoor activities (or long drives) can add up. If you’re lucky enough to travel south or upwards in elevation, I would definitely recommend applying sunscreen like you would during the summer months.
Q. What are you doing to advance research in the dermatology field?
A. As the director of the Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases Specialty Clinic, my interests are focused on lupus, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, morphea and vasculitis, among others. Our group is involved in several industry-sponsored clinical trials aimed at developing new and better therapies for these diseases which currently have limited treatments and can be devastating to people who suffer from them. I’m particularly interested in the environmental triggers of these skin diseases. I’m working with Drs. Michael McAlpine and Tianhong Cui, both in the U of M’s mechanical engineering department, to develop novel, skin-interfaced sensors. Like many autoimmune diseases, the conditions I study are characterized by periods of both increased and decreased activity, and we still have a lot to learn about why and when flares will happen.
Dr. David Pearson is an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, a dermatologist with M Health Fairview and the director of the Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases Specialty Clinic. His research interests include environmental triggers of autoimmune connective tissue diseases, effects on quality of life and development of novel therapies for these conditions.
University of Minnesota Medical School.
Top 5 at PressPubs.com:
Week of Dec. 29 – Jan. 4, 2025
Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories
1. Concept plan proposes 149 single-family homes, 113 townhomes. Quad Community Press > News
2. Car dealer opens up on finding strength, resilience after brain injury. White Bear Press > News
3. North Metro residents rev up the racing scene with passion, speed and singing. The Citizen > News
4. Mounds View sophomore receives Caring Youth Award. Shoreview Press > News
5. Whistleblowers settle with hockey association. White Bear Press > News
For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.
DATED: November 26, 2024
BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Patrick Antonen, City Administrator, Circle Pines, MN
Published two times in the Quad Community Press on December 31, 2024 and January 7, 2025.
CITY OF LEXINGTON, MINNESOTA
SUMMARY 2025 BUDGET
The purpose of this report is to provide summary 2025 budget information concerning the City of Lexington to interested citizens. This budget is published in accordance with Minn. Stat. Sec. 471.6965. This budget is not complete; the complete budget may be examined at the Lexington City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 during regular business hours. The City Council adopted this budget on December 5, 2024. Budgeted Budgeted
Published in city newsletter January 2025
Published one
or
Bidding
the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.
The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days. For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award,
FROM PAGE 1
In December 2024, the Centerville City Council approved the purchase agreement and the request from the district and the property owners to have the property rezoned from mixed use to public use.
“The reason we asked them to go that direction is because we feel that it’s a cleaner, a bit more of a transparent, way to communicate with the public,” said Mark Statz, Centerville city administrator, about the rezoning request.
“It’s our view that changing the comprehensive plan and changing the zoning just makes it a bit clearer to anyone moving town looking at a zoning map and saying, ‘What am I moving in next to?’ or anyone looking at a comprehensive plan for a broader look of how the city is laid out.”
It is predicted that in the next five years, enrollment in the district will increase. In the 2025-26 school year, there is an expected increase of 29 students enrolled in Centerville Elementary and 37 students enrolled in the district overall.
“Districtwide, when we look at K-12, Centerville is the largest driver of our future enrollment given the current demographics,” said Patrick Chaffee, executive director of Centennial Schools. “What that means for us is we need to keep a watchful eye on that because we want to make sure we are planning for the future and not get caught off guard.”
Holmberg explained that not every building within the district is the same. Some buildings have different amenities while others have more space for student programs. Chaffee added that the district is looking to add certain amenities to elementary schools, such as a dishwashing space in the kitchens and a learning commons area.
“Blue Heron, Centerville and Rice Lake are our larger elementary
schools, and we want those all to have the same amenities,” said Chaffee. “So, for example, Centerville only has one music room, and the rest of them have two music rooms. We want to make sure the equivalent space is there.”
Since Centerville Elementary is predicted to have the most growth, it would undergo the most change. Proposed improvements include an additional music room, a new gymnasium, an enlarged health office, a new dishwasher room, separate bus entrance and parking, a revised parents drop-off loop, and more.
“One of the things that came from the Legislature last time around was free lunch, free breakfast,” said Holmberg. “Prior to that opportunity coming for our students, we were seeing a participation rate anywhere from 40 to 50 percent; (now) all of our schools are seeing an 80 percent participation rate, which is great. However, our facilities and our cafeterias and our kitchens in size have not changed.”
Holmberg added that this has created a challenge when trying to turn things around between students coming in for breakfast and for lunch.
Another challenge Chaffee added was the bus entrance, parking and parent drop-off. The proposed concept for Centerville Elementary provides an example of how the district could improve student safety and traffic flow.
At this time, Chaffee said that the district is unsure of what it will build on the LaLonde property.
“Given the growth over here (at Centerville Elementary), we know that if we want to add onto that school it’s going to be tight if we don’t acquire some sort of adjacent property,” Chaffee added.
Centerville residents who were at the Planning Commission
meeting shared their support for the preliminary design of Centerville Elementary and the purchase of LaLonde property by the school district.
“Both of my sons went to Centerville Elementary School,” said Heather Garciofini. “That school is a cornerstone of our community. It is a big reason why a lot of us chose to make our homes in Centerville. As the number of families in our community continues to rise, I think it’s going to be imperative that we provide the school with the capacity they need to grow alongside the population.”
Kara Johnson also shared her support for the project.
“It is important to continue to support the development and upkeep of our schools, especially as we continue to see growth in young families,” she said. “I also believe this is a great example of a way for us to see continued growth of our downtown, but in a way that is different than what was previously envisioned by the current master plan.”
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
BRAUSENAUTO.COM
Centerville Elementary would undergo the most construction: it could receive a second music room, new gymnasium and a separate bus entrance and parking.
DON'T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Disco ver the ideal solution for an yone who struggles on the stairs is concerned about a fall
SPLA Program See www.nls.k12.mn.us/e mployment for more information.
paired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Herita ge for the Blin d Today at 844.220.9501 today!
GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited talk text and data for just $25/mo! The power of 3 5G networ ks, one low price! Call today and get the latest iPhone every year on us! 855.849.6621
GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free in stall, free HDDVR upgrade,
Thank You God, Saint Mary an d Sain t Jude for favors granted!
COPS&COURTS
POLICE REPORTS
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• While on patrol Dec. 18, officers located a two-vehicle crash in the intersection of Main Street and Lakeland Circle in Centerville. One party complained of possible injuries. They were evaluated by EMTs and refused further treatment or transportation. Officers took information for a state crash report and facilitated the exchange of information between drivers.
• Officers were dispatched Dec. 19 to a property damage accident that occurred in the intersection of 20th Avenue and Main Street in Centerville. Officers took information for the report and facilitated the exchange of information between the involved parties. No injuries were reported.
• Police responded to a hit-and-run accident Dec. 19 in the 100 block of Keith Road in Circle Pines.
• Officers were dispatched Dec. 20 to a motor vehicle accident that occurred in the 9200 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington.
• Officers responded to a phone call Dec. 22 for a delayed report of theft that occurred in the 8900 block of Syndicate Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers were dispatched Dec. 22 for a lost wallet found in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers followed up on an ordinance violation Dec. 23 that occurred in the 200 block of Tanner Court in Circle Pines.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• While on patrol Dec. 23, an officer located a juvenile who was out after curfew in the 800 block of Ash Street. The officer contacted a parent, and after determining there were no problems, released the juvenile from the scene.
• An officer took a call Dec. 23 in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway from a resident who was concerned about their private data being exposed. The officer provided the resident with information and
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
When cold weather strikes, so can thieves
As cold weather approaches, many drivers will want to warm up their vehicles before hitting the road. It may seem like good idea to start the car, blast the heat and wait inside until it’s time to leave, but it can also be a dangerous one. In fact, in some states and municipalities, warming up a vehicle and leaving it unattended is illegal.
During the winter, thieves are on the lookout for vehicles that are “puffing”. Puffing refers to the practice of leaving a vehicle running while unattended. As the vehicle’s exhaust runs, it will emit puffs of steam when warming up, making it an easy target. With no one around to stop them, and the key already in the ignition, criminals only need to hop in and drive off. Unfortunately, insurance may not cover the cost of the theft because it was the owner that left the vehicle running. Thankfully, there is a solution. Remote starters allow car owners to start the engine while keeping the vehicle safely locked up, without the presence of a key or
documented their concerns.
• An officer handled a case of mail theft Dec. 23 in the 100 block of Pony Court after a resident located empty boxes of mail belonging to another resident. The victim was informed of the theft and the incident was documented.
• Officers responded to a juvenile female using a vehicle without permission Dec. 23 in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The juvenile was cited for driving without a driver’s license.
• An officer responded to a local business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive Dec. 23 on a report of a stolen purse. The purse had been located by an employee and was returned to the owner.
• An officer received found mail Dec. 23 in the intersection of 74th Street and Jon Avenue. The officer contacted the owners to arrange disposal or retrieval of mail.
• Officers responded to an assault report Dec. 23 in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue. The suspect will be charged with fourth-degree assault.
• An officer stopped a vehicle Dec. 23 in the intersection of Birth Street and Hokah Drive, as the registered owner had a warrant. The driver was identified as the owner and arrested on the warrant. The driver was brought to jail.
• An officer responded to a report of a suspicious male walking along a road in the 600 block of Aqua Lane Dec. 24. The officer checked the area but was unable to locate the male.
• Officers responded to a lost dog complaint Dec. 24 in the 7900 block of Henry Lane. The officers shared the information with other officers so they could watch for the dog.
• An officer received information of a parking complaint Dec. 24 in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road. The driver was issued a written warning for a handicap parking violation.
• An officer responded to a property damage report Dec. 24 in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer took a report of a found dog Dec. 24 in the 7300 block of Crane Drive. The officer was able to contact the owner of the dog and reunite them.
• Officers received a complaint Dec. 24
Tips to prevent auto theft this winter:
• Lock the vehicle, set the alarm, and take all keys or fobs.
• Do not leave the garage door opener in the vehicle.
• Take a picture of your registration on your cell phone. Do not leave the registration or other papers with personal information in the vehicle.
• Never leave a car unlocked and running to warm it up, or while stopping for a quick cup of coffee. It only takes a moment for an opportunistic thief to jump inside and drive off. To learn more, visit www. nicb.org.
fob, are usually considered a safe alternative.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau warns consumers about the dangers of leaving a vehicle unlocked and not taking the fob or key with them.
National Insurance Crime Bureau
regarding a person panhandling in the intersection of Birch Street and Hodgson Road. Officers spoke with the male and found no crime had occurred.
• Officers responded to an alarm at a local business Dec. 24 in the 400 block of Park Court. One person was located on site and determined to be an employee. There were no other problems found.
• Officers responded to a report of water coming from an unknown source in a home located in the 6800 block of Lake Drive Dec. 24. The water to the house was turned off and the water was determined to be coming from a broken faucet.
• An officer responded to a report Dec. 24 of a resident of a group home in the 300 block of Ware Circle who had left the home; staff members were concerned for their welfare. The officer and a staff member located the male in the area and convinced them to return home.
• Officers took a report of a missing person Dec. 25 in the 300 block of Ware Circle. The person was entered as missing, and the investigation is ongoing.
• Officers responded to a residential structure fire Dec. 25 in the 6900 block of LaMotte Drive. There were no injuries; and officers stood by while the fire department handled the incident.
• An officer responded to a call from a resident Dec. 26 in the 100 block of Mustang Court who wanted their neighbor informed they were away on vacation. A voicemail was left with the neighbor.
• Officers received a call Dec. 26 in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway regarding a resident who attempted to speak with a family member who had moved to another state. The resident was provided information to help them with their efforts.
• A caller requested an officer to check on the welfare of her dog Dec. 26 in the 2100 block Watermark Way. The officer checked and found the dog was safe and secure inside the home.
• Officers responded to a report of suspicious activity Dec. 26 in the 1000 block of South Trappers Crossing. The
DEATH NOTICE
Fr. Tom Fitzgerald passed away on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2024, a few days short of his 85th birthday.
Fitzgerald served the Church of St. Genevieve as pastor from July 1, 1999, to June 14, 2012. He continued being a member of the parish after retirement, attending Sunday mass, leading a book study group, cleaning up at funeral luncheons and selling festival raffle tickets. The funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 13, at the Parish Community Center, located at 6995 Centerville Road, Centerville. A visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m.
officers determined it was an animal outside.
• An officer took a report of suspicious activity Dec. 26 in the 7700 block of Main Street. No suspect information was provided.
• Officers received a report of a suspicious vehicle Dec. 26 parked in the 1200 block of Chokecherry Road. Officers investigated and determined there were no problems.
• An officer took a suspicious activity report Dec. 27 in the 7600 block of Mustang Lane regarding a possible scam. The incident was documented at the request of the reporting party.
• An officer responded a fraud report Dec. 27 in the 7000 block of Antelope Drive. The victim reported a loss of a large amount of money. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer responded to a report of found property Dec. 28 in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road. The owner was located and notified they could pick up their property at the police department.
• An officer responded to an assault report Dec. 28 in the 8900 block of University Avenue NE. The investigation is ongoing.
• While on patrol Dec. 29 in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road, an officer conducted a traffic stop. After an investigation, the driver was arrested and booked at the jail for trafficrelated violations.
• While on patrol Dec. 29 an officer located a vehicle in the ditch in the 6100 block of Centerville Road. After an investigation, an adult male was cited for failure to drive with due care.
• Officers responded to a call of a grass fire Dec. 29 in the 6500 block of Otter Lake Road. The fire was found to be a large recreational fire. The homeowner was advised of city ordinances.
• An officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation Dec. 29 in the intersection of Furman Street NE and 140th Avenue NE. The officer detected impairment and, after an investigation, arrested the driver for DWI. The driver was later booked at jail.
COUNTY BRIEF
Bunker Beach Water Park season passes now available
Anoka County residents are now able to purchase season passes to Bunker Beach Water Park at a reduced rate. Located in Bunker Hills Regional Park, the water park is Minnesota’s largest outdoor water park. It includes a wave pool, kids’ lagoon, splash pads, water slides and more. Purchase your season pass online at www. bunkerbeach.com.
Cougar cagers break winning streak at weekend tournament
WRESTLING
Centennial returned to action Saturday and earned a first-place finish among seven teams in the New Richmond, WI Invitational. They had not competed since Dec. 20. Cougar champions were Jaden Lilly at 132 pounds, Andrew Person at 165 and Tyler Cook. Lilly (13-4) was 4-0 with two pins, including one in the finals. Person (9-4) had two pins, then two technical falls. Cook (15-2) had a tech fall and three pins, including the finals. Placing second were Evan Boesch (8-5) at 106, Jack Grygelko (10-6) at 113, Jack Ruegesegger (9-4) at 150 and Carter Stuckey (8-6) at 190. Placing third were Logan Fu (9-7) at 126, Ben Johnson (10-6) at 138, Grant Moffat (3-2) at 175, and Brayden Boesch (3-1) at 285. The Cougars had 416 points. New Richmond was next with 368.
SWIMMING
The Centennial Cougars, who had won six straight, lost to Eagan and Eastview at a tournament in Eagan Dec. 2728 and to White Bear Lake on Friday at home. They are now 7-4.
“We’re having trouble scoring,” acknowledged Coach Jamie Sololik. “Except for Autumn and Sydney.”
Eagan (7-5) beat the Cougars 81-42, led by Maya Menninger with 13 points and Jocelyn McClary and Kathryn Simonson with 12 each. Eastview (9-3) beat the Cougars 62-42 with Clara Goodman netting 24 points.
Autumn McCall scored 14 points against Eagan and 15 points against Eastview, while Sydney Schmitz added 14.
Against the Bears, the Cougars (7-4) led late in the game but lost 55-49. McCall had 18 points and Schmitz 13.
Bruce Strand
After 14 wins, Cougar skaters fall to Orono, Holy Angels
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Centennial/Spring Lake Park (CSLP) improved to 14-0 beating two strong teams in a St. Louis Park holiday tournament, then absorbed their first two losses — to Orono in the tourney finals and to Holy Angels at home Saturday.
CSLP won 3-1 over Hill-Murray (10-3) with Kaia Weiland making 42 saves while Teagan Kulenkamp netted two goals and Mia Sutch one. Grace Laager made two assists. They prevailed 4-2 over BenildeSt. Margaret’s (9-2-2) with two goals by Laager and one each by Lillian Renslow and Alexis Larsen. Weiland made 37 saves.
Orono stymied the Cougars 2-0 on Dec. 28 as goalie Vivienne Anderson made 30 saves for the shutout and Zoe Lopez scored twice in the third period. Wieland made 20 saves. Orono is 9-3-3. Before the shutout, CSLP had scored between three and eight goals every game.
Holy Angels (10-4-3) clipped the Cougars 4-2, on Saturday at Centennial with 41 saves by Zoe Rimsted and goals by Maysyn Mullen, Taylor Lesnar, Calli Holmes, and Juliet Foster. Scoring for the Cougars were Laager (power play) and Sutch. The Cougars have been ranked first in Class AA for several weeks. Holy Angels is No. 2 and Orono No. 3 in Class A.
fifth in the 200 free relay and sixth in medley relay.
Centennial won a conference match over Andover 94-85 on Thursday, then journeyed to Fargo for a 14-team Border Battle on Saturday where they placed sixth overall. Event winners against Andover were Benno Schuhbauer (50 and free), Joseph Murray (200 free), Caleb Cregan (500 free), Sawyer Celotto (breaststroke), and all three relays. Isaac Nguyen, Schuhbauer, Devin Swenson and Murray won the medley. Celotto, Jacob Digre, Aidan Anderson, and Murray won the 200 freestyle. Schuhbauer, Grant Page, Cregan and Nguyen won the 400. Top finishes at Fargo were by Nguyen, fourth in individual medley (2:11.23) and fifth in the 100 free (52.51); Schuhbauer, fifth in butterfly (57.07) and fifth in breaststroke (1:04.36); Blake Thorson, sixth in diving (296.90) and Murray, 10th in 50 free (23.94). The Cougars were
A Look Ahead In SPORTS
BOYS BASKETBALL
• 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7—vs. Maple Grove
• 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9—at Osseo
• 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13—vs. Park Center
GIRLS BASKETBALL
• 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7—at Maple Grove
• 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9—vs. Osseo
• 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13—at Park Center High School
GIRLS HOCKEY
• 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7—vs. Elk River
• 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9—vs. Blake
BOYS HOCKEY
• 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9—vs. Andover
• 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11—at Champlin Park
GYMNASTICS
• 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8—vs. Osseo
• 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11—at River Falls High School
WRESTLING
• 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10—vs. multiple schools
• 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11—at ZumbrotaMazeppa High School
BOYS SWIMMING & DIVING
• 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9—at Spring Lake Park
• Saturday, Jan. 11—vs. Coon Rapids
NORDIC SKIING
• 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9—at Elm Creek Park Reserve
DANCE TEAM
• 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11—at Bloomington Kennedy High School
ALPINE SKIING
• 4:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9—at Wild Mountain
BOYS BASKETBALL
Centennial is 6-3 after a win and two losses last week. The Cougars beat Chisago Lakes 99-66 on Monday with Jackson Driessen netting 31 points and Tristan Hanson 22. Kellen Binder added nine points, Charlie Beck had eight points and Marshawn Carlvin seven. Joe Couwenhoven scored 27 points for Chisago Lakes (1-8). The Cougars lost to White Bear Lake 73-61 on Friday. Driessen drilled 30 points. Max Johnson added 10. Colin Piper led the Bears with 21 points. The Cougars lost to Woodbury 64-59 on Saturday. Hanson kept them in the game with 30 points and nine rebounds. Driessen scored 12 points.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Andrew Person
Centennial Wrestling January 7, 2025
Andrew Person was the 165-pound champion on Saturday at the New Richmond, WI Invitational helping the Cougar wrestlers place first. “Andrew beat two ranked wrestlers in dominating fashion,” observed Coach Chase Steffen. Person (9-4 for the season) had two first-period pins, then two technical falls, against Wisconsin opponents, earning 41.5 team points.
CONTRIBUTED
Autumn McCall stretched out her 6-foot-2 frame to shoot against White Bear Lake.
SPORTS BRIEFS
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Jackson Driessen lined up a free throw on the way to scoring 30 points against White Bear Lake.
SP TTEDAROUND TOWN
1-2. Deputy Garret Zakrzewski from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office visited a Cub Scouts meeting just as the Scouts were learning how to tie square knots in a friendly competition. He was invited back as a “thank you” after a previous visit to answer questions about law enforcement. Deputy Zakrzewski arrived just in time to jump right into the competition. — Contributed 3-4. The Lino Lakes Ambassadors attended a holiday party in St. Michael. There was a gift-wrapping contest, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. — Contributed
Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to quadnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.
• Student-centered instruction. We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates, all can achieve.
• More academic opportunities to explore interests, excel and design your future.
• Students are agents and owners of their own learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging — with high expectations for student success.
• Our educators inspire, facilitate, and challenge students, nurturing curiosity and confidence. We provide a window to their future.
• We are transforming learning. Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.
Stay Connected
• E-Newsletter - The Community e-Newsletter is sent out each week, with alternating text and video editions. Text editions cover student and staff successes, school and Community Education offerings, and School Board proceedings. Request to be added to the list by sending an email to us at communications@isd624.org.
• Construction Updates - Find updates about the construction projects happening throughout the district at isd624.org/BuildingOurFuture.
• Stay Social - Join the district’s social media circlesFacebook, Instagram and YouTube for daily 624 Fact posts and weekly video share-outs. Find links on the District’s website.
