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Eagle Update

Progress report for schools

At the February school board study session, board members received program updates from the principals at Jefferson Elementary, New Ulm Middle School and New Ulm High School. There is plenty to be proud of and share with our communities and parents as well.

While we can’t provide you with the same detailed information that was shared in a 90-minute meeting, I would like to provide you with highlights. Our students are showing great gains as a result of the hard work of our leadership and incredible staff.

Jefferson has focused on literacy within their building. A leveled library (providing books at levels appropriate for each learner) was established to provide resources for teachers to use in their rooms to meet student needs. Balanced literacy is a style of reading instruction that uses whole group and small group instruction to teach reading and language skills. With these programs, and a focus on literacy, Jefferson has witnessed marked improvement from fall to mid-winter assessments, across all spectrums of student ability.

Jefferson has added morning activities students can participate in before school begins. Some of the activities include; open playground, walking club, Lego’s, homework help, drawing, quiet reading and board games. These are offered as a way to allow students to socialize with their peers and to prepare their minds for the school day. Students in third and fourth grade have STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) classes as a part of their schedule. Plans are underway to develop this program for first and second grade as well.

Our New Ulm Middle School has many student support programs to hit all levels of learners, both academically and socially. Students are assigned to an advisor who helps them negotiate the world of adolescence. Time is set aside each day for students to work on skill development or enhance existing skills, making sure all students continue to grow. There are exploratory and elective classes for the students as a way to experience hands-on learning. This year, we added after school clubs to allow more options for students to participate in and feel a part of the school.

At New Ulm High School, students are able to take several College in the Schools (CIS) classes and earn over 30 college credits. Students can also take Advanced Placement (AP) classes to earn more college credit. Those wishing to enter a two-year school can earn college credits for vocational classes they take here. We have added staff for our fine-arts and vocational programs to meet student and community needs. There are many partnerships with businesses, providing real-world job experiences for our students. We are grateful for the continuing support of our community as we prepare students for life beyond high school.

Go Eagles!

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