Community e-Newsletter
December 29, 2024
2025-26 Kindergarten Enrollment
Kindergarten enrollment is now open, and we’re thrilled to welcome our newest Bear families! Important kindergarten information can be found on the district’s Kindergarten website!
Along with our strong neighborhood school programs and district-wide International Baccalaureate (IB) program, we’re excited to launch an Elementary Spanish Dual Immersion program starting in Fall 2025. This program will be offered at Otter Lake Elementary and Matoska International, with up to three kindergarten immersion classrooms at each school for a potential total of six classrooms district-wide. Transportation will be available to resident families throughout the district. Visit our Immersion website for more details, including links to flyers with information about Jan. 8 & 9 immersion open house events (English / Spanish).
In Photos: Embracing New Experiences
Student News
Winter Themed Activities
We hope everyone has a fun and safe Winter Break! If you're looking for some ideas of what to do while you're out of the classroom, check out the 2024 Winter Break video!
Bear and Dr. K were welcomed to the WBLAHS Daily ROAR studio to create a "Daily ROAR Winter Break Edition." Several high school students and staff members share different activities and ways Bears of all ages can stay active during the break! See you in 2025!
Before heading off on Winter Break, Central students and staff enjoyed a spirit week filled with themed dress-up days and activities during Beartime. One included a basketball shooting contest between staff and seventh graders in Mrs. Wolff's class. The total points scored from the top seven participants were added up. Staff won 25-20. In November, sixth graders participated in their basketball challenge against staff. Students in Mrs. Myette's class beat staff by six points. In January, eighth grade classes will go head-to-head to see who will compete against staff members in their grade-level showdown.
Artist Swetha Avula, from the White Bear Center for the Arts, lead an inspiring watercolor class at the Senior Center. Participants enjoyed painting winter themed cards, showcasing their creativity and learning new techniques. Swetha's patience and encouragement enhanced the fun as students explored their creativity together.
Hitting the Right Notes
High school music students showcased their talents to fifth graders across the district as they prepare for middle school registration. Band, orchestra and choir members performed different pieces and songs and answered questions about the three music options the future sixth graders can choose from. The musical performances were highlighted in a recent video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds".
Speaking of music, high school choir students held their first concert in the WBLAHS Performing Arts Center. Students worked diligently leading up to their concerts on December 16. They perfected their songs during rehearsals, which ranged from classic to modern day tunes. Up next for high school music students is the 43rd annual Jazz Night Club event on Saturday, January 25 at 7 p.m. at WBLAHS.
Igniting Creativity and Teamwork
North Star Elementary fifth graders finalized their arcade games. Their creativity was highlighted in a recent video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds". Students utilized the Engineer Model to create their projects. In groups, they brainstormed ideas, drafted a design, built the game and then tested the model before making final adjustments. Students had so much fun playing each other's games and opening an arcade for other grade levels to enjoy their creations!
High school CIS Political Science students in Mr. Mahlum's class had a special guest visit their classroom. Judge Keala Ede stopped by to review different court cases and have an open conversation with the students about Minnesota law. Judge Ede was appointed to the Court of Appeals by Governor Tim Walz in 2023 and elected this year.
In Mrs. James' science class at Mariner Middle School, students are studying the compasses and the basics of using one. During a hands-on activity, students worked in groups to navigate around the atrium. They had to read their compass which brought them to different letters scattered on the walls to decode a message. Which the exciting lesson come to life in a recent video issue of "The Week in 62.4 Seconds".
Willow Lane Elementary fourth graders recently learned about poetry. To celebrate the end of the unit and to kick off Winter Break, they hosted a poetry and pajama party. VIP guests were in attendance to see the students read their original works. The performances ended with time to mingle with the crowd and enjoy refreshments.
Shining a spotlight
The completed construction projects at WBLAHS was recently highlighted in Spaces4Learning. The article focused on the innovative, collaborative learning environment made possible by the community's support of the 2019 bond referendum.
Check out our 2024 video update of the district's Building Our Future facilities projects. This is our fifth annual update that we have put together for our school community. Additional updates and information on the Building Our Future facilities projects can be found on the district's webpage.
We are always on the lookout for photos of our youngest community members showing off their Bear Wear - "Born to be a Bear" onesie sent to families with newborns, "I'm a Bear" 3T shirts sent to toddler families as a reminder to participate in screening at age three, and "I'm a Bear!" shirts sent to kindergarteners when they are officially enrolled. Email photos to us here and you may just find your little one featured in a District publication!
Speaking of kindergarten, registration is open for students entering kindergarten in Fall 2025! We offer strong neighborhood school programs and district-wide options with IB and dual immersion. Find more information on the Kindergarten page of the website! You can also check out this fun video with messages about our programs from elementary principals.
White Bear Lake Area High School's student-run coffee shop, School Grounds, was recently highlighted in the White Bear Press. Featured in the write-up was mention of a flavor tasting class brought to the students by entrepreneurs who offered inspiration and real-world insights. The high school's Career Pathways and the district's Nutrition Services Departments have collaborated to make the unique opportunity possible for students.
Minnesota Hockey Magazine recently highlighted WBLAHS grad Nolan Roed, a forward for the USHL Tri-City Storm who was named an assistant captain for the team in December. In the article, Nolan talks about leading by example, doing whatever his team needs him to do, and playing the right way. He also mentions support from his older brother Lleyton, who currently plays for the AHL’s Coachella Valley Firebirds.
Activities Updates
WBLAHS grad Jack Janicki was recently highlighted in the University of Wisconsin's BadgerBlitz.com for his work on the basketball court. Minnesota Hockey Magazine recently highlighted WBLAHS grad Nolan Roed, a forward for the USHL Tri-City Storm. Speaking of hockey news, the Boys Hockey Team defeated Stillwater 3-1 in a recent matchup. Find game highlights here. The Girls Hockey Team took down Shakopee and Lakeville South during the Lakeville Holiday Tournament. Find details here. The Girls' Alpine Ski Team finished 12th of out 22 teams at the Wild Mountain Invite. The Boys' Alpine Ski Team finished 16th out of 26 teams. The Cheerleading Team took home fist place in both the varsity small non-tumbler division and varsity game day non-tumbling division at the St. Michael-Albertville Invite.
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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Past Meeting Highlights
Dec. 9 Regular Session
Nov. 25 Work Session
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![WBLAS Academic Calendars]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1733850269/whitebeark12mnus/ee7caa6pcfblnfht2p69/202527CalendarsApprovedThumbnail.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1733850269/whitebeark12mnus/ee7caa6pcfblnfht2p69/202527CalendarsApprovedThumbnail.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1733850269/whitebeark12mnus/ee7caa6pcfblnfht2p69/202527CalendarsApprovedThumbnail.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1733850269/whitebeark12mnus/ee7caa6pcfblnfht2p69/202527CalendarsApprovedThumbnail.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1733850269/whitebeark12mnus/ee7caa6pcfblnfht2p69/202527CalendarsApprovedThumbnail.png","width":1562}])
At the December 9, 2024 School Board Regular Meeting, the School Board approved the following calendars:
- 2025-26 Academic Calendar
- 2026-27 Academic Calendar
![thumbnail of Spanish Dual Immersion Program Announcement video]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1730225865/whitebeark12mnus/t2fgass6qne6vzlsiyd0/SpanishDualImmersionProgramAnnouncementVideoThumbnail.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1730225865/whitebeark12mnus/t2fgass6qne6vzlsiyd0/SpanishDualImmersionProgramAnnouncementVideoThumbnail.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1730225865/whitebeark12mnus/t2fgass6qne6vzlsiyd0/SpanishDualImmersionProgramAnnouncementVideoThumbnail.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1730225865/whitebeark12mnus/t2fgass6qne6vzlsiyd0/SpanishDualImmersionProgramAnnouncementVideoThumbnail.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1730225865/whitebeark12mnus/t2fgass6qne6vzlsiyd0/SpanishDualImmersionProgramAnnouncementVideoThumbnail.png","width":1266}])
The White Bear Lake Area School Board recently approved an Elementary Spanish Dual Immersion program, set to launch in Fall 2025. The enrollment window for the 2025-26 school year will open on December 16, 2024.
![student portrait]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1727061482/whitebeark12mnus/d7tbvnawrtbri5b6zdf2/Kleinhans.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1727061482/whitebeark12mnus/d7tbvnawrtbri5b6zdf2/Kleinhans.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1727061482/whitebeark12mnus/d7tbvnawrtbri5b6zdf2/Kleinhans.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1727061482/whitebeark12mnus/d7tbvnawrtbri5b6zdf2/Kleinhans.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1727061482/whitebeark12mnus/d7tbvnawrtbri5b6zdf2/Kleinhans.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1727061482/whitebeark12mnus/d7tbvnawrtbri5b6zdf2/Kleinhans.png","width":2098}])
At the September School Board Regular Meeting, senior Lydia Kleinhans was welcomed as the student representative for the 2024-25 school year.
![group photo with Jim Galvin]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1709657293/whitebeark12mnus/a1v2mu2ffurfrofm8yqj/SchoolBoardApprovesGalvinCourt.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1709657293/whitebeark12mnus/a1v2mu2ffurfrofm8yqj/SchoolBoardApprovesGalvinCourt.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1709657293/whitebeark12mnus/a1v2mu2ffurfrofm8yqj/SchoolBoardApprovesGalvinCourt.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1709657293/whitebeark12mnus/a1v2mu2ffurfrofm8yqj/SchoolBoardApprovesGalvinCourt.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1709657293/whitebeark12mnus/a1v2mu2ffurfrofm8yqj/SchoolBoardApprovesGalvinCourt.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1709657293/whitebeark12mnus/a1v2mu2ffurfrofm8yqj/SchoolBoardApprovesGalvinCourt.jpg","width":2200}])
Jim Galvin, long-time coach, teacher, and community member, has been honored by White Bear Lake Area Schools for his decades of service to the school community. The White Bear Lake Area School Board voted at its March 4, 2024 meeting to name the fully renovated White Bear Lake Area High School gymnasium “Galvin Court.”
![White Bear Lake Area School District - ISD 624 Logo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704398004/whitebeark12mnus/ef6ckyzpm5ypb7rcyhhg/BeSMARTpartners.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704398004/whitebeark12mnus/ef6ckyzpm5ypb7rcyhhg/BeSMARTpartners.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704398004/whitebeark12mnus/ef6ckyzpm5ypb7rcyhhg/BeSMARTpartners.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704398004/whitebeark12mnus/ef6ckyzpm5ypb7rcyhhg/BeSMARTpartners.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704398004/whitebeark12mnus/ef6ckyzpm5ypb7rcyhhg/BeSMARTpartners.png","width":1268}])
At December’s Regular School Board Meeting, representatives from the Be SMART awareness campaign and local law enforcement leaders presented information about a program developed to bring together parents and all adults concerned about kids, guns, and safety. The White Bear Lake Police Department, the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and White Bear Lake Area Schools are teaming up to share an important message about proper gun storage and safety.
![Board approves “Mariner Middle School” beginning Fall 2024]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1676491134/whitebeark12mnus/dhmhsc4chz8azhghryzi/MarinerNamePostThumbnail.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1676491134/whitebeark12mnus/dhmhsc4chz8azhghryzi/MarinerNamePostThumbnail.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1676491134/whitebeark12mnus/dhmhsc4chz8azhghryzi/MarinerNamePostThumbnail.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1676491134/whitebeark12mnus/dhmhsc4chz8azhghryzi/MarinerNamePostThumbnail.png","width":818}])
At the February 13, 2023 School Board Regular Meeting, the White Bear Lake Area School Board approved a committee’s recommendation to change the name of Sunrise Park Middle School when it moves from the Sunrise Park neighborhood to the current White Bear Lake Area High School - South Campus building in the fall of 2024. The new name, Mariner Middle School, is a nod to the District’s past.
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![Bench covered in snow]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1557807631/whitebeark12mnus/a9yvxatl6vkivgwoezgk/EmergencySchoolClosings.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1557807631/whitebeark12mnus/a9yvxatl6vkivgwoezgk/EmergencySchoolClosings.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1557807631/whitebeark12mnus/a9yvxatl6vkivgwoezgk/EmergencySchoolClosings.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1557807631/whitebeark12mnus/a9yvxatl6vkivgwoezgk/EmergencySchoolClosings.jpg","width":818}])
If winter weather is so severe that schools need to close, families will be alerted via phone, email and text to those with texting capabilities. The message will be posted on the district's website and social media accounts, and the information will also be available on local media outlets.
![thumbnail of video - aerial view of White Bear Lake Area High School parking lot and building]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1734564551/whitebeark12mnus/f56nqngqsizy0rowd8hg/BuildingOurFutureUpdate2024thumbnail.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1734564551/whitebeark12mnus/f56nqngqsizy0rowd8hg/BuildingOurFutureUpdate2024thumbnail.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1734564551/whitebeark12mnus/f56nqngqsizy0rowd8hg/BuildingOurFutureUpdate2024thumbnail.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1734564551/whitebeark12mnus/f56nqngqsizy0rowd8hg/BuildingOurFutureUpdate2024thumbnail.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1734564551/whitebeark12mnus/f56nqngqsizy0rowd8hg/BuildingOurFutureUpdate2024thumbnail.png","width":1272}])
A Building Our Future Update 2024 video was recently created and shared out on the district's website. This fifth annual update video provides an overview of progress that has been made across the district since the comprehensive facilities review and planning work began in 2018 and the community supported the Building Our Future Bond Referendum in 2019.
![three kindergarten students enjoying hands-on project together]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1734362078/whitebeark12mnus/nthfxqwgvywkz8vk29gn/IMG_9790.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1734362078/whitebeark12mnus/nthfxqwgvywkz8vk29gn/IMG_9790.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1734362078/whitebeark12mnus/nthfxqwgvywkz8vk29gn/IMG_9790.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1734362078/whitebeark12mnus/nthfxqwgvywkz8vk29gn/IMG_9790.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1734362078/whitebeark12mnus/nthfxqwgvywkz8vk29gn/IMG_9790.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1734362078/whitebeark12mnus/nthfxqwgvywkz8vk29gn/IMG_9790.jpg","width":2200}])
Registration is now open for students entering kindergarten in Fall 2025! We offer strong neighborhood school programs and district-wide options with IB and dual immersion.
![collage of photos from Galvin Court Dedication event]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1734289876/whitebeark12mnus/muh431coo5rwwborxcso/GalvinCourtDedication.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1734289876/whitebeark12mnus/muh431coo5rwwborxcso/GalvinCourtDedication.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1734289876/whitebeark12mnus/muh431coo5rwwborxcso/GalvinCourtDedication.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1734289876/whitebeark12mnus/muh431coo5rwwborxcso/GalvinCourtDedication.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1734289876/whitebeark12mnus/muh431coo5rwwborxcso/GalvinCourtDedication.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1734289876/whitebeark12mnus/muh431coo5rwwborxcso/GalvinCourtDedication.png","width":1652}])
Students, staff, alumni and community members gathered for a pre-game reception and packed the game gym at White Bear Lake Area High School prior to the first Boys' Basketball game in the space for a Galvin Court Dedication celebration on Dec. 13.
At the December 9, 2024 School Board Regular Meeting, the School Board approved the following calendars:
- 2025-26 Academic Calendar
- 2026-27 Academic Calendar
![building community]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1731353326/whitebeark12mnus/kr61z5jiapeqqsnz6whd/CoffeewithDrK.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1731353326/whitebeark12mnus/kr61z5jiapeqqsnz6whd/CoffeewithDrK.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1731353326/whitebeark12mnus/kr61z5jiapeqqsnz6whd/CoffeewithDrK.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1731353326/whitebeark12mnus/kr61z5jiapeqqsnz6whd/CoffeewithDrK.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1731353326/whitebeark12mnus/kr61z5jiapeqqsnz6whd/CoffeewithDrK.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1731353326/whitebeark12mnus/kr61z5jiapeqqsnz6whd/CoffeewithDrK.jpg","width":2200}])
Community members are invited to stop by throughout the academic year for an informal chat with Superintendent Kazmierczak over a cup of coffee at the Downtown White Bear Lake Caribou Coffee for the upcoming Coffee with Dr. K events:
- Feb. 27 from 12-1 p.m.
- May 6 from 7:30-8:30 a.m.
ISD 624 does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX, including in employment. Complete information in SB Policy 522.