Community e-Newsletter

January 31, 2021

Note from the Superintendent

We are excited to welcome our grades 3-5 students back for in-person learning this week!

As all levels of our elementary students come together again, it's a good time for a reminder of our Health and Safety Guidelines and a fun re-share of Bear's mask how-to demonstration.

Go (Stay Healthy) Bears!
Dr. K

Student News

Meeting & Greeting

Students in grades K-2 successfully returned to in-person learning on Tuesday, Jan. 18. Their grades 3-5 classmates will be joining them in elementary buildings tomorrow. The district is implementing new safety protocols for students and staff learning and teaching in-person in the areas of masks, remaining in classrooms, COVID-19 testing for teachers and staff, and masks and face shields for staff members.

Elementary Distance Learning Academy families enjoyed a meet and greet event Thursday, with Principal Amber Walsh providing information about the district's new option for elementary families who choose distance learning. The experience was featured in this week's issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds." More than 600 students are enrolled in the Distance Learning Academy that launched in January.

screenshot of Distance Learning academy website

District middle school and high school students, who are also H2O for Life Water Warriors, presented information about "what they do and how they do it" at a recent Women in Business meeting with the White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce. Their presentation was well received and described as "inspirational." Well done, students!

High school students have met a terrific opportunity through the Career Pathways program, working at Wilbert Plastic Services and learning great lessons that will help them in their future careers. The experience was covered in Friday's issue of The Week in 62.4 Seconds. Career Pathways Coordinator Jenny Moore provided an update about the overall district program at Monday's School Board Work Session, covering the ways all students work with school counselors and the College & Career Center, how some students learn and explore through Career Pathway Courses, and how registered students participate in Career Pathways work and beyond.

Suburban Community Channels (SCC) recently covered the district's Meals on Wheels program in video. The highlight includes mention that volunteers deliver meals, along with providing an important service of making connections and going above and beyond to serve seniors in the community. The program is facilitated by our Senior Program. Check out the Meals on Wheels February menu here.

Busy months

January's Welcome to White Bear events may have been wrapped up now that the calendar is turning to February, but families who are interested in enrolling their child for the 2021-22 school year can find information and registration links on the Enrollment page of the district website. Families are encouraged to contact any of our schools directly to get additional information about our offerings.

Just in time to start February out right, the 2021-22 registration catalog for the district's preschool program, which offers locations throughout the district, will be available tomorrow (Monday, Feb. 1) at the district's Early Childhood Program website.

The Central Middle School Student Council organized a virtual talent show that was revealed to students on Thursday. Central has been doing several monthly activities to get students involved in school, with activities including dress up days each week and virtual contests involving snowman building, fuzzy sock guessing, snowflake making, gingerbread decorating, ugly sweater wearing, pumpkin carving and costume wearing.

The monthly variety of activity will continue in White Bear Lake Area Schools. With February being Black History Month and I Love to Read Month, students will be enjoying a variety of student learning opportunities happening throughout the district.

Special attention

The WBLAE Teacher of the Year committee recognized the 600+ educators of White Bear Lake Area Educators, Local #7286 as this year’s Honorary Teachers of the Year (2020-21) for their extraordinary dedication to students and families during emergency distance learning this past spring and their efforts this school year.

The 2021-22 class of nominees includes new honorees and all nominees who submitted teacher surveys as part of the 2020-21 selection process. In accordance with Education Minnesota’s Teacher of the Year Program, eligible nominees now have the opportunity to submit written responses to a series of questions regarding teaching and learning and their personal educational philosophies. From those responses, six finalists will be selected to interview with members of the community, administration and their fellow teachers.

White Bear paraeducators have gotten additional attention recently as well. The Governor proclaimed last week (Jan. 25-29) Paraprofessional Recognition Week, noting that there are over 20,000 paraprofessionals in Minnesota working hard every day to make sure every child has the education they need to succeed in school and life.

WBLAHS students have been front-and-center in the media recently. Wrestler Dimitri Hatzis was pictured in this week's issue of the White Bear Press, in a Saturday match vs. a Tartan opponent. A shot of WBLAHS athlete Danielle Madden was included in last week's White Bear Press, scoring the first basket of the girls' basketball season in a Friday night win over Irondale. The Boys' Basketball team was included on a maxpreps.com list for 52 consecutive basketball wins in 1984-85. Senior Kolby Bachmaier was recently highlighted in the White Bear Press for earning his Eagle Scout rank. His project included installing wood duck houses near Willow Lane Elementary.

student wrestler, student basketball player, Boy Scout

The Week in 62.4 Seconds

Enjoy The Week in 62.4 Seconds videos highlighting weekly district activities throughout the school year.

School Board News

Upcoming Meetings

The remainder of the 2020-21 School Board meetings will be viewable via electronic means. Livestream links are available on the district's online calendar and will be posted on the Meeting Materials page the week prior to each meeting.

Past Meeting Highlights

January 25 Work Session

January 11 Regular Meeting

District News

General Information

Family Notices

School Linked Mental Health Services - Find information about School Linked Mental Health Services available to our families here.
Support Hub - The District launched a Support Hub last spring in order to provide families with resources to address barriers & enhance well-being. This comprehensive resource gives families and community members access to information for essential services including crisis response, basic needs, mental health and wellbeing, physical health, social emotional learning and more.
Receiving district messages - District-level emails are being sent from the communications@isd624.org email address. If you are not receiving emails from this account, it is possible that the email address is currently blocked in your email account. Find instructions to unblock the communications@isd624.org email address in different email platforms here.
Distance Learning Meal Pick-Up Information:
- Free meals are available for all children ages 18 and under through June of 2021. Weekly pick-ups are available at locations throughout the district on Wednesdays, with both morning and evening time slots available, and on Friday mornings.
  - Meal pick-up times and locations are available here.
  - To take advantage of the opportunity, families should pre-order meals each week using the Meal Order Form for distance learning pick-up so Nutrition Services staff know what to prepare.
  - Menus are available online at https://isd624.nutrislice.com/
- Contact the Nutrition Services Department at NutritionServices@isd624.org or 651-407-7524 with any questions.
Free or Reduced Applications - Even though free meals are available to all for this school year, it is still very important that families who may qualify for free or reduced-price meals complete the meal application as soon as possible. The meal applications not only qualify your family for free meal benefits, but also provide additional benefits that may include discounts for: internet access, college application fees, sports/activities fees, and AP test registration fees.Please check out this flyer for more information. Contact the Nutrition Services Department at NutritionServices@isd624.org or 651-407-7524 with any questions.
COVID-19 information:
- Contact Tracing - In order to facilitate the district’s COVID-19 contact tracing, it is important that families and staff members let us know through this form of a COVID-19 diagnosis. Please also call your school’s attendance line (for students) or submit an absence in Skyward (for staff) if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
- Dashboard - The district's COVID-19 Info & Dashboard page lists the 14-Day Case Rate By County, District COVID-19 Cases Weekly Reporting, and Process for Individual Notifications. We have recently added local information to the dashboard, including by-school numbers of students and staff members who are confirmed cases of COVID-19 and who are quarantined as close contacts.
- Notifications - White Bear Lake Area Schools will continue to ensure that all who are directly affected are appropriately notified in accordance with health department guidelines and privacy laws. A close contact notification and request to quarantine will be sent to all identified close-contacts. A general notification of a positive case in the building will be sent to: all building staff (including traveling and classified staff members) and all students attending the same school.
- Bears Protect Bears - Find information about the White Bear Lake Area Educators’ “Bears Protect Bears Commitment” here. Remember the important steps of social distancing, wearing masks, washing hands, and staying home when sick.
- Mail order saliva test information from MDH - The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has asked that we share that the state’s mail order pilot test is now open for anyone in Minnesota to access. Staff and families can use the mail order form to access the saliva tests. Testing is free for every Minnesotan, whether or not you have insurance. If you do have insurance, you will need to provide your information so your insurance company can pay for your test. If your insurance does not pay for COVID-19 tests or does not pay enough, the state will cover the cost. If you do not have insurance, the state will pay for your test. You will not receive a bill.
- Community Testing Sites - Find COVID-19 Testing Locations on the MDH website here.
- Travel and post-travel information from MDH - The following information was recently shared from the Minnesota Department of Health: Traveling increases the chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. This holiday season, do not travel out of state or have family travel into Minnesota to join a holiday celebration. Incoming visitors and Minnesotans that travel out of state for non-work purposes are asked to quarantine for 14 days. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others.
Immunization Info from MDH - Health care providers in the state are ready to serve children for immunization services and get them caught up on vaccines they may have missed. Start by calling your primary care provider to request an appointment. If you have difficulty locating a provider for immunizations, please visit Where To Get Vaccinated to find locations where your child can get vaccinated. The Minnesota Vaccines for Children program offers free or low-cost immunizations for eligible children age 18 years and younger. Go to Free or Low-Cost Shots for Children to learn more and see if your child is eligible. See the full note from MDH in the district's Nov. 6 - Updates email to families.
Bear Care Health and Wellness Clinic Appointments - The Bear Care Health and Wellness Clinic located in North Campus (5045 Division Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110) is now offering online appointment scheduling. Use this link to schedule an appointment. The clinic is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2-6 pm. All health services are FREE and available to all children in the White Bear Lake Area School District.
- Call us at (651) 653-2923 or email BearCare@BearCareClinic.org. Click here to schedule an appointment.
- Available services include:
  - Health assessments and sports physicals
  - Influenza vaccines
  - Rapid strep throat testing
  - Ear infections and pink eye
  - Rapid mono testing
  - Urinary tract (bladder) infection testing
  - Mental health counseling
  - Teen health
  - Chronic illness management and referrals
  - Family health support
Staff & Community Mental Well-Being Series - District staff and families are invited to attend presentations sponsored by the district, in conjunction with district partners, that are focused on mental well-being throughout the school year. All of the presentations will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will be streamed live with the ability for live participation. The sessions will also be recorded for later viewing.
- Upcoming sessions are scheduled for January 21, February 25, March 25 and April 22. Additional information about the district's Mental Well-Being program and the event series can be found here.
Equity Action Plan - The Office of Equity and Engagement is beginning year-long work on an Equity Action Plan this fall. See information here.
Chromebook Support - Families can find helpful information regarding Chromebooks in the resources linked below:
- Elementary Parent Chromebook Info One-Pager (Spanish version here)
- Elementary Parent Chromebook Info presentation
Preschool Registration - Spots are available at all of our Early Childhood locations. Please see the website or stop by Normandy Park Education Center to register for classes!
Many Faces - Check out Many Faces events that are happening this fall that will focus on building community through conversations.
Career Pathways Newsletter - Please enjoy the January 2021 Career Pathways Newsletter!
Requesting an interpreter - Find more information about requesting a call with an interpreter in the language your family speaks.
We Are Hiring! - White Bear Lake Area Schools is hiring for a variety of positions, offering both school-day and out-of-school-time hours. Full- and part-time options are available, and many positions offer flexible hours if needed to accommodate family schedules. The district is seeking paraprofessionals, community services and recreation staff and coaches, and more. Find the online application page here.
Stay connected! - Join White Bear Lake Area Schools' social media circles - Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Calling all baby models - We're looking for "Born to be a Bear" photos! Email photos to us here and you may find your little one featured in District publications!
Coffee with Dr. K - The next “Coffee with Dr. K” event will take place at 4:30-5:30 p.m. on April 6. Find details about the event on the district's online calendar as the date approaches.
Free Food - Feb. 20 - Free 30 lb. boxes of food are available while supplies last starting at 11 a.m. on February 20 at IBEW Local 110 (1330 Conway St., St. Paul). Loading will be drive-thru, contactless. See flyer here. (Rescheduled from a Feb. 13 event)

Awards and Honors

Teacher of the Year - The WBLAE Teacher of the Year committee recognized the 600+ educators of White Bear Lake Area Educators, Local #7286 as this year’s Honorary Teachers of the Year (2020-21) for their extraordinary dedication to students and families during emergency distance learning this past spring and their efforts this school year. The 2021-22 class of nominees includes new honorees and all nominees who submitted teacher surveys as part of the 2020-21 selection process.
January Recognitions - The following recognition week was recently proclaimed by Governor Walz:
- Jan. 25-29 - Paraprofessional Recognition Week
February Recognitions - The following celebrations are being recognized in February:
- February - Black History Month
- Feb. 8-12 - National School Counseling Week
- Feb. 8 - National African American Parent Involvement Day
- Feb. 15 - Presidents’ Day (No School, District Offices Closed)
- Feb. 17 - National PTA Founders’ Day
- Feb. 22-26 - School Board Recognition Week

Please contact the Communications Department (651-407-7578) to submit District News, General Information, Opportunities or Awards & Honors for inclusion in future publications.

Community Services

The WBLAS Community Services and Recreation Department provides a wide range of services and opportunities that enhance the quality of life for all members of ISD 624.

Community Services Updates following the Governor's Executive Order can be found here.
Seasonal Catalogs - Seasonal catalogs are available now! The Community Services Catalog was mailed to residents in mid-January.
Digital Backpack - The Community Services Department distributes electronic flyers on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. Flyers include announcements from the school district, as well as local organizations. Those who wish to request distribution of a flyer should email the files to Director Tim Maurer at tim.maurer@isd624.org.
Senior Program
- Check out the latest edition of The Voice.
- Stay informed about the latest community offerings for seniors in the community with these three guides:
Community Bridge - Check out opportunities this July through September in this Community Bridge Consortium edition. The Community Bridge Consortium is an adults with cognitive disabilities program supported by the North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale, South Washington County, Roseville, White Bear and Mahtomedi School Districts.

Senior Program Updates

The White Bear Area Senior Center is a program of the White Bear Lake Area Schools Community Services & Recreation Department.

General Update re: Senior Program following Governor's Executive Order (see complete post here)
- Meals on Wheels will continue, following COVID-19 safety guidelines and social distancing measures
- Footcare Service & Driving Safety Training courses will continue, following COVID-19 safety guidelines and social distancing measures
- Social classes/clubs/gatherings suspended until January 4, 2021
The Voice - Check out the latest edition of the The Voice to learn about exciting upcoming opportunities.
Resources Guides - Stay informed about the latest community offerings for seniors in the community with these three guides:
FREE Activity Pass for Senior Community Members (age 65+) - White Bear Lake Area Schools offer a variety of activities - home athletic contests, concerts, and theater productions to name a few. Join us! Please fill out this application and you will be sent the pass in the US Mail. If you have questions, please contact Jody Reber at 651-407-7563 or jody.reber@isd624.org.
Be a Bear! The district currently has many staff openings available! Find the online application page here.

Support WBLAS Students

Visit the WBLAHS online store - The WBLAHS online store offers a variety of fun Bear Wear items for purchase, including apparel and accessories.
Ways to support the White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation (WBLAEF) is an independent, non-profit corporation promoting excellence in education in White Bear Lake Area School District 624 schools.
Be a Bear! - White Bear Lake Area Schools is hiring for a variety of positions, offering both school-day and out-of-school-time hours. Full- and part-time options are available, and many positions offer flexible hours if needed to accommodate family schedules. The district is seeking paraprofessionals, community services and recreation staff and coaches, and more. Find the online application page here.

Partnership Updates

The White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation (WBLAEF) is an independent, non-profit corporation promoting excellence in education in White Bear Lake Area School District 624 schools.
White Bear Center for the Arts
- WriteNow! High School Writing Contest - The deadline for students to enter the White Bear Center for the Arts' WriteNow! Contest is February 17, 2021. A virtual award ceremony will be held on May 6, 2021. Cash prizes will be awarded to students with winning entries!
  - New to the contest this year, WBCA is offering a FREE four-part online writers' course for high school students. In this creative writing class, students will learn essential skills for strengthening their writing - in any genre. This class features four lesson packets, each full of tips, exercises, and inspiration for writers of all skill levels. Each packet includes a video lecture, writing prompts, and readings by established writers. This course was developed by Karen Parkman, WBCA staff member, to support the annual WriteNow! Contest (Karen's bio can be found below). The course is available to all high school students, and participation in the contest is not required. Whether students are working on a school assignment, writing independently, or just want to learn more about writing, this class will leave them feeling inspired and motivated. The workshop is available on the WBCA website here.
  - Also new this year, students will have the opportunity to share their work with fellow writers during a live, online writing club facilitated by Karen Parkman. The writing club will take place via Zoom on Fridays, January 15 - February 19, 2021, from 2-3 p.m. at this Zoom link.
- Visual Arts Contest - Students in grades 9-12 are invited to enter original art in the 6th Annual High School Visual Arts Contest, an online juried art show with cash awards and other prizes. The entry deadline is Friday, March 5, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. Find details in the full contest guidelines.
Related to BearPower - White Bear Lake Winter Farmers Markets will be hosted on upcoming Saturdays. For more information, see the following: flyer, webpage, Facebook event.
Ramsey County
- Medical Reserve Corps - Ramsey County is looking for volunteers for their Medical Reserve Corps. Find information on the Ramsey County website.
- Free Meals - Meals on Wheels of Ramsey County is providing free home-delivered meals to Ramsey County adult residents who are impacted by COVID-19. Learn more.
- Emergency Assistance - Learn more about receiving help with rent/mortgage and utilities during COVID-19 through Ramsey County.

Hmong
Karen
Somali
Spanish

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