Mercer Memo

On October 16, the Mercer School District was honored to host members of the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) leadership team, including Assistant Deputy State Superintendent Sara Kneuve, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives Tacara Lovings, and Assistant State Superintendent for the Division of Access & Opportunity Paul Manriquez. The visit focused on Mercer’s commitment to innovation in teaching and learning, personalized instruction, and the wide-ranging opportunities available to students in a small school setting.

“At Mercer, we take pride in offering big opportunities within our small school setting,” said Superintendent Renae McMurray. “Our staff and students are deeply engaged in creating learning experiences that are hands-on, personalized, and connected to real-world skills. We are grateful to DPI for recognizing the value of the work happening here and for their continued partnership in supporting educational innovation across Wisconsin.”

During their visit, DPI leaders toured classrooms, participated in a student panel featuring Mercer’s new Outdoor Education class, and engaged in discussions centered on personalized learning, instructional practices, and learning walks that reflect the district’s dedication to continuous improvement.

Small School. Big Opportunity.

Dylan shares a project he designed in AutoCAD that will be produced on the CNC Router.

On October 24, Mercer School teachers will take part in a professional learning day in partnership with CESA 12. The focus will be on strengthening assessment practices to enhance student learning and growth.

Please note, there will be no school for students on October 24.

What is Connections?

At Mercer School, we are committed to fostering a culture where partnerships, belonging, and positive relationships thrive. That’s why we are proud to highlight "Connections: Linking Community and Curriculum", a vital initiative aligned with our strategic priority of Culture and Community.

The goal of this initiative is simple yet powerful: to bring together students, staff, families, and community members to create a supportive and welcoming environment. By encouraging active participation from all stakeholders, we are working to achieve a shared vision of success that benefits everyone.

Through "Connections," we aim to:

• Build strong partnerships with community organizations, businesses, and families.
• Foster positive relationships within the school and beyond.
• Ensure that all voices are heard and included in decision-making processes.
• Create opportunities where community expertise enriches classroom learning and vice versa.

This initiative is not just about collaboration—it’s about creating a culture where every student, staff member, and community partner feels valued and empowered to contribute to our shared vision. Together, we can build a brighter future by linking what we do in school with the resources and strengths of our community.

We invite you to join us on this journey. Whether by volunteering, sharing your expertise, or attending school events, your involvement makes a difference. Let’s work together to strengthen our connections and create lasting opportunities for our students and community!

This Week's Community Connections:

• Tom's Cafe: On Sunday, October 19, Tom's Cafe is hosting a pasta night to support the high school volleyball team. Tom's Cafe accepts donations year-round to support opportunities for students at Mercer School.
• Wolf's Den: This week, the Wolf's Den hosts the junior pizza buffet on Thursday, October 23 and Homecoming on Saturday, October 25.
• St. Croix Rods Factory: This week, 9-12 grade students have the opportunity to tour St. Croix Rods Factory to learn more about local careers in manufacturing.
• Thanks to Mercer Fire and EMS for supporting the senior class in the Soak a Senior event after the volleyball game on October 16.

A culture of partnership, inclusivity and positive relationships, both inside and outside the school, supports students, staff, and the community. Stakeholders actively participate to achieve a shared vision of success.

Congratulations to the following classes for maintaining an attendance rate of 95% or higher

• Ms. Holly Duensing's K4/K Class
• Ms. Maddy Brown 's 1st Grade Class

OVERALL K4-12 GRADE ATTENDANCE RATE: 91.9%

For children and teens, attending school isn’t just about getting an education. It’s about developing their whole selves—emotionally, socially, and personally.

Attending school regularly and in person gives students the ability to follow daily routines, as well as connect with friends, peers, teachers, and others outside their family circle. They’re able to engage and interact, to use their brains and try new things. They can be part of a team. They have a purpose.

Help your child be their best self. Promote good attendance.

Credit: Adapted from The Ad Council

A culture of partnership, inclusivity and positive relationships, both inside and outside the school, supports students, staff, and the community. Stakeholders actively participate to achieve a shared vision of success.

Oct 19 4:30 PM-6:30 PM Volleyball Fundraiser - Pasta Dinner @ Tom's Cafe

Oct 21 Manufacturing Tours at St. Croix Fishing/9-12th grades

Oct 21 @7:00 PM HS Girls Volleyball Regionals @ Flambeau

Oct 23 4:30 PM-7:00 PM Pizza Buffet Class of '27 at Wolf's Den

Oct 25 @10:00 AM HS Cross Country Sectionals @ South Shore

Oct 25 @ 7:00 PM-10:00 PM Homecoming at Wolf's Den Banquet Hall 9-12th grades

#ThePowerofSmall

Come join us for Coffee with Renae! This is a relaxed and welcoming time to connect with our District Administrator, ask questions, and share ideas about our school community. For conversations specific to your child, please reach out to schedule a private meeting—we’d love to give those matters the individual attention they deserve.

Monday, Oct 20

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, Muffin, Cheese Stick, Juice, Toast, Fruit, Milk

Lunch: Chicken Sandwich, Sweet Potato Fries, Fruit Cocktail, Salad Bar

Tuesday, Oct 21

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, Oatmeal, Cheese Stick, Juice, Toast, Fruit, Milk

Lunch: Sloppy Joes, Tater Tots, Pistachio Fluff, Salad Bar

Wednesday, Oct 22

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, Breakfast Burrito, Cheese Stick, Juice, Toast, Fruit, Milk

Lunch: Biscuit Chicken Pot PIe, Peaches, Salad Bar

Thursday, Oct 23

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, Bagel, Cheese Stick, Juice, Toast, Fruit, Milk

Lunch: Riblet Sandwich, Pineapple, Salad Bar

Friday, Oct 24

NO SCHOOL: Teacher Inservice

Experiences are designed to provide a range of opportunities and supports aligned with interests, aspirations, needs and overall well-being

Our school is filled with amazing students, staff, and community members who go above and beyond to make a difference every day. Now, you have the chance to recognize their kindness and contributions!

We invite everyone to participate in our Kindness Wall—a special space where you can post messages of appreciation and encouragement. Whether it’s a teacher who goes the extra mile, a student who brightens your day, or a community member who supports our school, take a moment to share your gratitude.

A simple note of thanks can go a long way in making someone feel valued and appreciated. Let’s work together to spread positivity and celebrate the wonderful people who make our school great!

Stop by the Kindness Wall today and leave a message—you never know how much it might mean to someone!

A culture of partnership, inclusivity and positive relationships, both inside and outside the school, supports students, staff, and the community. Stakeholders actively participate to achieve a shared vision of success.

The Mercer Education Foundations is actively seeking new trustees and members who are interested in encouraging a support system for the school within the community. If you are interested in finding out more, please email MEF at mercereducationfoundation@gmail.com

Check out their new website!

In the Strategic Plan, Mercer School has identified six strategic priorities:

• Teaching and Learning
• Environment for Learning
• Developing the Whole Child
• Finance and Operations
• Culture and Community
• College and Career Readiness

Each week, our newsletter highlights stories, projects, and achievements that reflect these six strategic priorities, showcasing the impactful work of our students, staff, and community. By focusing our efforts on these critical areas, we are confident that Mercer School can create the best possible learning environment and opportunities, paving the way for our students' success today and in the future.

Click on the link below to download a sponsorship form.

Stay up to date with the latest news and announcements by using the Mercer School App. You can use the QR code below to download the app:

Email: rmcmurray@mercertigers.org
Website: https://www.mercer.k12.wi.us/
Location: 2690W Margaret Street, Mercer, WI, USA
Phone: 715-388-8274

Mercer Memo is edited using ChatGPT