Community e-Newsletter

In Photos: Spring Adventures

Student News

Igniting Creativity

Elementary schools across the district are taking the stage and perfecting their spring productions. Birch Lake Elementary fourth and fifth graders got into character for their performance of “Seussical Kids”. They spent months practicing their lines, songs and dances. Watch a sneak peek of their rehearsals in this video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds". 

At the secondary level, middle schoolers are taking center stage for their production of "Beetlejuice Jr."! The White Bear Press recently highlighted the production in the Arts & Culture spread, with a mention of the students' upcoming production being amongst the first. Tickets go on sale April 8! Shows will be performed at 7 p.m. on April 24-25 and at 2 p.m. on April 26.

Third graders at Lakeaires Elementary presented solar system projects to their families and classmates. They researched unique characteristics about space and all the planets in our solar system. Students took those facts and created an informational poster, solar system model and presentation to showcase their findings. Get a closer look at their projects in this video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds".

Otter Lake fourth and fifth graders are studying the artist Claes Oldenburg who creates food sculptures including the cherry and spoon in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. They were inspired by his work to make their favorite food come to life. After designing their sculpture, students used cardboard and paper mâché to build noodles, cake, hot dogs and more! Once everything dried, students painted their masterpieces. This activity was highlighted in a recent video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds".

Speaking of creativity, WBLAHS Principal Russ Reetz pulled off a very creative prank on April Fools' Day. During the daily ROAR announcements, Mr. Reetz invited his identical twin brother Rob, who is the principal at Mounds View High School, to share his portion of the announcements. Check out the funny interaction in this video. 

 

Important Lessons

High school students from the Black Student Union, Muslim Student Association, Indigenous Student Organization and Asian American Pacific Islander Group, performed at Otter Lake Elementary. The collection of cultures showcased various songs, dances and traditions that are important to them and their heritage. Watch their performance, which was highlighted in this recent video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds". 

Community members gathered at the district’s senior center for a National Vietnam War Veterans Day event. Attendees enjoyed a program lead by members of the auxiliary and White Bear Lake VFW color guard, a welcome home ceremony from the Daughters of the American Revolution and lively conversations. This event was highlighted in a recent video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds".

Names in the News

Maddy Belisle was named the WBLAHS 2025 Athena Award winner and will attend the Athena Awards event at the St. Paul RiverCentre on April 16. This program recognizes top senior multi-sport athletes for their high school academic accomplishments and athletic career.

WBLAHS grad Steven Holtz was recently highlighted in the White Bear Press for his musical journey, including serving as a vocal and piano coach for WBLAHS students. During his interview, Steven was asked what he hopes his legacy will be, to which he responded, "To inspire younger up and coming musicians to realize their potential musically. To honor and keep the beloved American songbook, but especially the timeless masterpieces of all genres".

Longtime track coach Tom Paulson was highlighted in the White Bear Press for his 39 years of service to the Bears' track program. Paulson made special mention in the interview of his fellow and former coaches, who served as strong mentors to him. He is now taking on a new role in the sport: working as the manager for the Bears' home meets.

Exciting Collaborations

Central Middle School art students have been learning about how and where art is displayed, its impact and meaning. Students took this opportunity to brighten the temporary construction wall by the art room with their creativity by painting a mural! Check out their masterpiece in this video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds". Phase two of the Building Our Futures facilities projects at Central are underway as new classroom spaces and additional upgrades are added. The district-wide comprehensive facilities plan that was made possible through the community’s support of the 2019 bond referendum. Community members can follow along in the district’s Building Our Future Facilities Process to see all the projects happening right now, what's been completed and the projects still to come. 

Otter Lake Elementary recently participated in "Recess Takeover", a free training opportunity provided by Playworks/916. During the event, a trainer worked with staff and students on ways to open and close recess, transition students, and monitor recess in a positive way. Additionally, staff and students were taught several easy and inclusive games that required minimal equipment. Everyone had so much fun and enjoyed the new ideas and games they learned during the training session.

North Star Elementary wrapped up their Boosterthon fundraising event with an exciting all-school assembly! Students were selected to turn staff members and Mr. Schmidt into life size paintings! This was the top incentive for surpassing their building fundraising goal. Students also took part in a Glow Fun Run during the Boosterthon. 

Youth Enrichment Classes

Looking for your child to experience a fun, skill-based sports class? DASH Sports has the perfect opportunity for you! Join one of our upcoming Track & Field classes! These fun, skill based classes will cover basic track and field fundamentals and will include testing/timing and fun competitions. Participants will be active and involved in daily skill activities led by coaches with a passion for sports and working with children. So if you are looking for a fun, active sports experience, come and learn how to run, jump, and throw! Find registration information here. 

 Activities Updates

High school students are raising money for the Special Olympics and Unified Sports through the Cool School Polar Plunge event! On April 10 students will participate in a mobile polar plunge activity during school. You can support their case and donate today! Learn more here and for any questions, please contact Shannon Riebow, Shannon.Riebow@isd624.org. Maddy Belisle was named the WBLAHS 2025 Athena Award winner. The Boys Track & Field Team opened their season by placing eighth out of 30 teams during a meet held at Minnesota State-Mankato. 

Senior community members (age 65+) who live in the District are invited to participate in the Senior Activities Pass program and enjoy complimentary admission to most school activities. Find out how to receive your free pass here.

Please contact the Communications Department (651-407-7695) to submit Student News for inclusion in future publications. 

The Week in 62.4 Seconds

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

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