2007 - 2008 News

• Four RAP Students Received St. Louis Park Rotary Scholarships Wednesday, June 11, 2008

  
  The St. Louis Park Rotary's "Jump Start Program" provides a mentor-mentee program for students attending the Dakota Ridgedale Alternative Program (RAP). Located in St. Louis Park, RAP Dakota is an Intermediate District 287 Area Learning Center high school for students.

  Each year, the SLP Rotary provides scholarships to graduating seniors. This year, four RAP Dakota students will each received a $1750 scholarship. These students are: Richard Lee Elliott III, Chelsea Madsen, Melissa Malam, and Amanda Butler. Congratulations!

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  The St. Louis Park Rotary's "Jump Start Program" provides a mentor-mentee program for students attending the Dakota Ridgedale Alternative Program (RAP). Located in St. Louis Park, RAP Dakota is an Intermediate District 287 Area Learning Center high school for students.

  Each year, the SLP Rotary provides scholarships to graduating seniors. This year, four RAP Dakota students will each received a $1750 scholarship. These students are: Richard Lee Elliott III, Chelsea Madsen, Melissa Malam, and Amanda Butler. Congratulations!

  Rotarians also visit RAP Dakota on a monthly basis to discuss such topics as conflict resolution, team building, and career exploration. Hands-on activities and role playing are some of the techniques used to engage the students in these various topics.

  
  Pictured above: Rotarians Jim Miller and Karen Atkinson;
  RAP Dakota Students Richard Lee Elliott III, Chelsea Madsen,
  Amanda Butler, & Melissa Malam; RAP Dakota Site Coordinator Lynda Benkofske

   

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• District 287 Honors Mentor Connection High School Junior Conducts Cancer Research Tuesday, June 10, 2008

  
  Brandon Law, a junior at Wayzata High School, has been experimenting with stem cells and tumors and sharing his studies with top scientists and university professors across the country.

  If he had not seized the opportunity through a special program, Law's scientific achievements would not have been this extensive. Through Honors Mentor Connection, a program offered by the Gifted Education Services Department of Intermediate District 287, he has been pursuing advanced learning in cancer research.

  His interest in cancer research began during the summer before his junior year in 2007. He interviewed a number of scientists and bioethics professors at Northwestern University, Dartmouth College, and the University of Minnesota. The scientists whom Law interviewed gave him advice in promising fields of research relating to cancer. By creating a peer scientific network comprised of professors and scientists, he received advice about starting his own research.

  After learning about exciting fields in scientific research, Law sought his own mentor, Walter C. Low, Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota. After a two-hour interview, Law was given a research position in the Neuro-Oncology Laboratory. Law's passion for cancer research began when his grandfather died of brain cancer. His successful research project studied the effect of oxygen on brain tumor metabolism.

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  Brandon Law, a junior at Wayzata High School, has been experimenting with stem cells and tumors and sharing his studies with top scientists and university professors across the country.

  If he had not seized the opportunity through a special program, Law's scientific achievements would not have been this extensive. Through Honors Mentor Connection, a program offered by the Gifted Education Services Department of Intermediate District 287, he has been pursuing advanced learning in cancer research.

  His interest in cancer research began during the summer before his junior year in 2007. He interviewed a number of scientists and bioethics professors at Northwestern University, Dartmouth College, and the University of Minnesota. The scientists whom Law interviewed gave him advice in promising fields of research relating to cancer. By creating a peer scientific network comprised of professors and scientists, he received advice about starting his own research.

  After learning about exciting fields in scientific research, Law sought his own mentor, Walter C. Low, Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota. After a two-hour interview, Law was given a research position in the Neuro-Oncology Laboratory. Law's passion for cancer research began when his grandfather died of brain cancer. His successful research project studied the effect of oxygen on brain tumor metabolism.

  Law received the Yale University Science and Engineering Association's Most Outstanding Exhibit Award, an international award given for research. Additionally, he placed first in the Western Suburbs Science and Engineering Fair.

  Recently, he was invited to present his research at a scientific conference in Oxford, United Kingdom. He was also selected to participate in the Young Epidemiology Scholars Regional/National competition in Washington D.C. in April. Law also placed third in his category at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Atlanta, Georgia, an annual science competition with over 1,500 young adults from over 51 regions, territories, and countries.

  "They think it's great, and I look forward to continue my research over the summer with Dr. Low," said Law. "Honors Mentor Connection seminars taught networking and conducting business lunches. I later had to use these professional skills when meeting with nationally-recognized scientists and doctors," he said.

  Law received a three semester-long undergraduate research scholarship from the University of Minnesota. He intends to continue his research in college. Law thinks it is exciting to be on the frontlines of cancer research. He hopes to someday publish his work and educate the world on his findings on cancer.

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• Minnesota DI Brings Home the Gold from Global Finals Monday, June 9, 2008

  
  Congratulations to Team Minnesota, who had a superb showing at the Destination ImagiNation Global Finals in Knoxville, TN!

  MN DI sent 47 teams to the largest Globals ever, with 1,038 teams from the US, Canada, South Korea, Singapore, China, Turkey, Poland, and the United Kingdom.

  Special congratulations to Wayzata School District Gleason Lake's elementary "Masters of DI-saster" team who won a Renaissance Award for Outstanding Design, Engineering or Performance and who took first place in the world in the DI've Got A Secret! challenge! We applaud team managers Becky Heflin and Kathy Donlin, and team members Daniel Bye, Jarett and Zach Briol, Colleen Donlin, Heather Mostrom, JJ Heflin, and Sabrina Southwick.

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  Congratulations to Team Minnesota, who had a superb showing at the Destination ImagiNation Global Finals in Knoxville, TN!

  MN DI sent 47 teams to the largest Globals ever, with 1,038 teams from the US, Canada, South Korea, Singapore, China, Turkey, Poland, and the United Kingdom.

  Special congratulations to Wayzata School District Gleason Lake's elementary "Masters of DI-saster" team who won a Renaissance Award for Outstanding Design, Engineering or Performance and who took first place in the world in the DI've Got A Secret! challenge! We applaud team managers Becky Heflin and Kathy Donlin, and team members Daniel Bye, Jarett and Zach Briol, Colleen Donlin, Heather Mostrom, JJ Heflin, and Sabrina Southwick.

  Congratulations to Alumni and MN Regional Challenge Masters Becky Boorman and Brian O'Connor for their second place win in the University level Obstacles, Of Course! challenge!

  MN DI had another outstanding year, with 19 of our teams placing in the top 10, and 27 teams finishing in the top 20. Team Minnesota took 1st and 3rd in the Team Managers and Officials Competition, and Orono's high school Chorific! "Late Nite Pool Crew" team was a Dairy Challenge winner! St. Francis high school "Green Party" team member Clay Aldern was the DINI mascot at the TM&O competition.

  As one of the national sponsors said of our MN teams, "…There is something about this event that either brings out the best in our kids or it brings out the best kids." Team Minnesota distinguished themselves not only in terms of their performances, but in the many ways they stepped up to help and support each other.

  
  Gleason Lake First Place Team 

  Clay Aldern as DINI

  Obstacles University Level Team

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• What do EJ Henderson and Bren Road Students Have in Common? Thursday, June 5, 2008

  
  

  "We believe that all children will not only succeed, but will also excel, if given the opportunity. Active bodies and minds involved in positive programs stand a better chance to obtain a healthier future."
  -EJ Henderson

  This was a great year to be a student at Bren Road! Students had the opportunity to participate in the Urban Youth Outreach (UYO) program, a year long mind, body and soul experience sponsored by the EJ Henderson Youth Foundation and Gamespeed Football Academy in Eden Prairie. Over the course of the year more than 35 students participated in the program by working out with trainers twice weekly. The UYO program provides opportunities for youth of various social and economic backgrounds. The goal is to improve the academic performance, social skills, career preparation and physical fitness of the students who participate.

  Six Bren Road students participated in the program for the duration of the school year. On Friday, May 30th they were recognized for their dedication, hard work, physical and mental gains by spending the afternoon at Winter Park with a lunch and personal tour provided by EJ Henderson. The students were recognized by Mark Ellis, owner of Gamespeed Football Academy, EJ and members of his family including his brother Erin. The students were able to mingle, ask questions and gain a message for their future. In addition to the experience the students were recognized for their dedication and the betterment of their minds and bodies with new shoes, shirts, shorts and Gamespeed tote.

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  "We believe that all children will not only succeed, but will also excel, if given the opportunity. Active bodies and minds involved in positive programs stand a better chance to obtain a healthier future."
  -EJ Henderson

  This was a great year to be a student at Bren Road! Students had the opportunity to participate in the Urban Youth Outreach (UYO) program, a year long mind, body and soul experience sponsored by the EJ Henderson Youth Foundation and Gamespeed Football Academy in Eden Prairie. Over the course of the year more than 35 students participated in the program by working out with trainers twice weekly. The UYO program provides opportunities for youth of various social and economic backgrounds. The goal is to improve the academic performance, social skills, career preparation and physical fitness of the students who participate.

  Six Bren Road students participated in the program for the duration of the school year. On Friday, May 30th they were recognized for their dedication, hard work, physical and mental gains by spending the afternoon at Winter Park with a lunch and personal tour provided by EJ Henderson. The students were recognized by Mark Ellis, owner of Gamespeed Football Academy, EJ and members of his family including his brother Erin. The students were able to mingle, ask questions and gain a message for their future. In addition to the experience the students were recognized for their dedication and the betterment of their minds and bodies with new shoes, shirts, shorts and Gamespeed tote.

  Earlier in the school year students who had successfully participated in the UYO program were rewarded with tickets to a Vikings game. This was another memorable event for the students of Bren Road, provided by the EJ Henderson Youth Foundation.

  The students were ecstatic that this was an opportunity they were able to participate in. The students and staff had several positive things to say about the program and this event specifically. Here is what they have to say:

  "Gamespeeed is fun and the guys really work with you and really care about you. It was a really fun experience."
  - Student

  "It was one of the best chances that I have had, getting to work out with NFL players."
  - Student

  "What a great opportunity for students to develop self-confidence, self-management and social skills. They learn these skills and then apply them. It is great to see!"
  - Staff

  "It doesn't just build you up, it works on your mind, your goals and who your gonna be."
  - Student

  "The whole experience"
  - Student

  "Meeting NFL players who took the time out to meet us and work out"
  - Student

  "Game Speed is a significant challenge to any population and especially to our guys who seldom follow through on things. I'm impressed that several of our guys finished. I love the no-nonsense approach Mark has and the consistent positive message he gives!"
  - Staff

  "Once the ignorance of a man's potential is satisfied there are no more excuses. Gamespeed pushed these students but not as much as they pushed themselves. It was beautiful to watch these caterpillars become butterflies when I only thought they were going to work out!" - Staff

  
  L to R: Orieon (OT) Thunston, Jeremy Van Schultz, Robert Hayes,
  Mister Farr, Quincy Jones, DeAngelo McKinney, EJ Henderson,
  Isaiah Banks, Erin Henderson, Mark Ellis and Nick (front)
  

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• Students Obtain Real Experience! Wednesday, June 4, 2008

  
  Advanced Culinary Arts students on Brooklyn Park Campus assisted Taher Food Service, the Hennepin Technical College food service vendor, in preparing and serving food for the Luau celebration.

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  Advanced Culinary Arts students on Brooklyn Park Campus assisted Taher Food Service, the Hennepin Technical College food service vendor, in preparing and serving food for the Luau celebration. 

   

  
  Left to Right: Nathan Berg, Robbinsdale; Danielle Newell, Robbinsdale;
  Earnest Griffin, Osseo; Chef Chris Murray, Taher Food Service;
  Edward Swanson, Orono; Chef Jim Chapman, 287 Instructor
  

   

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• Bren Road Student Art Show: Creating a Refuge for Learning and Self-Expression Friday, May 30, 2008

  
  Art can be thought of as an expression of creativity and communication. For the high school and middle school students at Bren Road, art is a vessel for individual expression, collaborative work, ownership, pride, confidence and self-worth.

  Bren Road Education Center houses several programs at Intermediate District 287. Students attending Bren Road Education Center programs have significant special education needs in the area of emotional and behavior functioning. This might include one or more of the following: oppositional behavior; unsuccessful interactions with others; neurobiological disorders; developmental delays; chemical abuse; mental health issues; or a history of involvement with the juvenile courts.

  The art, culinary, woods and office departments have come together in a collaborative effort to present Bren Road's First Art Show. The Art Show will be held at Bren Road Education Center, located at 11140 Bren Road West in Minnetonka, on June 4th from 4:30 to 6:00pm.

  The public is invited to come and celebrate the students' accomplishments that will include poetry readings, art work, culinary delights, a silent auction and more. To participate in the silent auction all bidders must register before bidding. Bidders do not have to be present to win. All winners are responsible for payment and pick-up.

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  Art can be thought of as an expression of creativity and communication. For the high school and middle school students at Bren Road, art is a vessel for individual expression, collaborative work, ownership, pride, confidence and self-worth.

  Bren Road Education Center houses several programs at Intermediate District 287. Students attending Bren Road Education Center programs have significant special education needs in the area of emotional and behavior functioning. This might include one or more of the following: oppositional behavior; unsuccessful interactions with others; neurobiological disorders; developmental delays; chemical abuse; mental health issues; or a history of involvement with the juvenile courts.

  The art, culinary, woods and office departments have come together in a collaborative effort to present Bren Road's First Art Show. The Art Show will be held at Bren Road Education Center, located at 11140 Bren Road West in Minnetonka, on June 4th from 4:30 to 6:00pm.

  The public is invited to come and celebrate the students' accomplishments that will include poetry readings, art work, culinary delights, a silent auction and more. To participate in the silent auction all bidders must register before bidding. Bidders do not have to be present to win. All winners are responsible for payment and pick-up.

   

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• Corrections and More Congratulations to SAFE! Monday, April 7, 2008

  In the web article about the Education Minnesota grant, we incorrectly labeled Lyla Peterson as a teacher, she is indeed a Licensed Social Worker. And, we omitted another key grant writer, Carol Welton, OTR. Carol was instrumental in using her 30 years experience as an Occupational Therapist to develop activities that would support students with FASD. Also the grant was written to support students with the medical diagnosis of FASD, but it will be implemented in the SAFE program at Hosterman, with students ranging from 7 years old to 18 years old.

  Thank you to Brad Wing, FASD Teacher who also supported the grant project for the clarifications.

  Congratulations SAFE Staff!

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  In the web article about the Education Minnesota grant, we incorrectly labeled Lyla Peterson as a teacher, she is indeed a Licensed Social Worker. And, we omitted another key grant writer, Carol Welton, OTR. Carol was instrumental in using her 30 years experience as an Occupational Therapist to develop activities that would support students with FASD. Also the grant was written to support students with the medical diagnosis of FASD, but it will be implemented in the SAFE program at Hosterman, with students ranging from 7 years old to 18 years old.
  
  Thank you to Brad Wing, FASD Teacher who also supported the grant project for the clarifications.

  Congratulations SAFE Staff! 

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  Original Article Posted 3/31/08 

  Superintendent Sandra Lewandowski was notified today that Lyla Peterson, teacher at Hosterman Education Center received one of 41 Classroom Grant projects funded this year by the Education Minnesota Foundation to encourage creative and innovative projects that enhance teaching and learning. Lyla's project is entitled Sensory and Emotional Awareness for Students with FASD.

  The project will engage Hosterman's high school students in woodworking, clay sculpting and mosaic tiling activities to develop problem-solving skills, enhance focusing capabilities and improve social skills. Day-to-day changes in behaviors will be tracked to evaluate the efficacy of this new methodology for students with fetal alcohol syndrome.

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• April Strategic Plan Update Thursday, April 3, 2008

  In January 2008, the Core Planning Team, a representative group of 30 district stakeholders, drafted the strategic plan that will be approved by the Board in the fall. The draft plan, in the attached PDF file, will be informed by the work of the Measurement Team and three Action Teams. The Core Planning Team will provide mid-course feedback and direction to the Measurement and Action Teams in April.

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  In January 2008, the Core Planning Team, a representative group of 30 district stakeholders, drafted the strategic plan that will be approved by the Board in the fall. The draft plan, in the attached PDF file, will be informed by the work of the Measurement Team and three Action Teams. The Core Planning Team will provide mid-course feedback and direction to the Measurement and Action Teams in April.

  April Strategic Plan Activities:
  

  • The Action Teams for each of the Strategies will be meeting April 16 to draft results related to their strategy. The teams have been doing quite a bit of research that is informing their work. They have been interviewing key district people and consultants as well as reviewing literature for best practice. One great example of Action Team research is a Zoomerang survey of all of our advisory groups that Team 2 is conducting. Preliminary results are showing that advisory members value the networking time but are ambivalent about the advisory structure with respect to its efficiency and transparency for decisionmaking. Core team members for 287 will be attending this day to provide organizational perspective.
  • The Core Team will meet April 17 to hear the draft results and give feedback to the action teams. Individuals from the action and measurement teams will present results.
  • The Action Teams will then meet again April 18 to revise results based on Core Team feedback.
  • The Action Teams' final meeting will be May 21. At that time they will finalize action steps to support each of the results. They also will have worked on this task in the intervening time.  

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