Norris News
April 2026
What's Happening at Norris?
March has come and gone quickly, filled with growth, engagement, and meaningful learning experiences across our Norris community. While much of the month focused on completing Wisconsin state assessments—including the WI Forward Exam, PreACT, and ACT—our learners showed strong perseverance and success.
Beyond testing, learners immersed themselves in a variety of hands-on, real-world opportunities both on and off campus. Highlights included attending AdeptiCon, exploring Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) as part of their “Celebration of Learning,” and participating in engaging community experiences through partners like Owen’s Place and the Admirals.
In the classroom and beyond, learners continued to build skills across all content areas—strengthening literacy, applying math concepts, exploring science through hands-on experiments, and engaging in meaningful conversations during Women’s History Month. New opportunities, including Japanese language learning and expanded exploratory labs, sparked curiosity and creativity.
As we move into the third trimester and welcome spring, we remain focused on supporting learners in their growth, preparing for future pathways, and continuing to provide authentic, learner-centered experiences.
Kite Flying
WCTC Campus Tour
AdeptiCon
Through a Learner's Lens
What If You Could Go to College for Free While Learning in World-Class Labs?
By Maurice
On March 24, 2026, six learners from the Norris School District embarked on an impactful exploration of the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) campus.
This visit was more than a simple tour; it represented a critical step in their "Celebration of Learning" as they prepare for life after high school. The programs MATC offers are mainly put into 7 different branches: Business and Management, Community & Human Services, Creative Arts, Design & Media, General Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Construction & Transportation, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math). During the visit, the six learners explored classrooms and labs that focused on fields such as Culinary Arts, Auto Collision Repair, and STEM labs. We also were able to physically see the studios where they produce PBS Kids shows. My favorite thing about MATC was that they offer a program called MATC Promise, where you can go to school for free as long as you meet the requirements for the program, such as living in the MATC district, completing the FAFSA, maintaining a 2.0 GPA, and meeting specific income or academic criteria. Also, another thing I liked is that you can get technical diplomas and certifications that prepare you for employment in as little as 1–2 years. Gabe W. stated, “The MATC facility was very modern,” and I very much agree with him. Overall, I think MATC is a great school to get an education from. It has great teachers and is in a good environment for college students.
After seeing the campus and learning about the MATC Promise, I can definitely see myself pursuing my future here.
Financial Literacy
Science Experiments
Clinometer
📚ELA
During March, learners engaged with a range of expository and argumentative texts in English language arts classes. For example, they read and completed comprehension activities on an expository text about common misconceptions surrounding sharks. They also read and interacted with an argumentative text exploring how to determine the appropriate length of the school day. These texts supported learners in strengthening their comprehension, analysis, and critical thinking skills.
In addition, all learners participated in a wide variety of word work activities designed to build literacy skills. These activities included:
- Studying commonly confused homophones, such as “there,” “they’re,” and “their”
- Building phonological awareness
- Discussing and applying phonics rules and spelling patterns
- Identifying vowels and consonants and reinforcing the different ways they function within words
- Building word structure knowledge, including anagrams, consonant digraphs, consonant blends and clusters, vowel digraphs, trigraphs, r-controlled vowels, and silent letter combinations
- Learning new vocabulary and exploring word meanings
- Differentiating between common and proper nouns, as well as collective and individual nouns
- Exploring word structure, including how to attach affixes to base words
- Manipulating letters and word parts to create new words
- Developing vocabulary through structured practice
- Exploring how to code-switch appropriately between cultural language varieties and standard American English depending on audience, purpose, and context
Many of these activities were completed in game-based formats. In addition to strengthening literacy skills, these games supported learners’ growth in critical thinking, cognitive flexibility, concentration, visual processing, and strategic thinking. They also helped learners experience challenging tasks as achievable and engaging.
High school learners and specialists also made a focused effort to address remaining areas on their mark sheets where they still need to demonstrate competencies in order to earn credits in English language arts.
Looking ahead to April, learners will focus on grammar rules to strengthen their writing skills and will begin exploring the craft of speech writing.
📊Mathematics
This month in math, learners explored a variety of concepts, from percentages and probability to geometry and trigonometry. Our older learners continued developing their skills in navigating the coordinate plane through a variety of geometric transformations, while our younger learners practiced the fundamentals of plotting points.
Learners also made connections to science, exploring how basic trigonometry is applied in real life and learning to solve introductory trigonometry problems. These science connections continued as we examined inherited traits across our classes and analyzed the percentage of learners with various dominant and recessive traits.
Finally, March wrapped up with more hands-on geometry practice: learners used scale math to dilate or enlarge a candy wrapper of their choice onto larger graph paper, reinforcing both creativity and mathematical reasoning.
🔬Science
This month, learners have been extending their knowledge on many different science topics. Learners conducted an experiment to determine the height (without actually measuring it) of a tree and our flagpole by using a tool called a clinometer and some simple calculations. They also used the same tool to measure the angle of the sun to help determine what time of day it was. Other hands-on projects included measuring and recording long distances to assist in flying a kite, building a real working battery, and learning about circuits!
📜Social Studies
March was all about celebrating Women’s History Month, and we had a great time learning about some incredible women. We talked about the challenges faced by Mabel Lee and Lorraine Hansberry, and learned how Julia Child made cooking more fun and approachable. We also explored important women from around the world and in our own lives, and why the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution mattered so much.
We’ve also had some great real-world conversations, including the history and current events surrounding Iran, Olympic eligibility, and the rising cost of living. A highlight this month was trying Julia Child’s berry clafoutis, which was a big hit. Our younger learners have been exploring continents, cultures, and populations, and are working on creative dioramas. Our older learners are continuing their country research projects and will be doing some cooking soon. We’ve also been learning about inflation and other economic topics.
And it’s the third trimester—and spring—yay!
🔍Orientation
This month’s new learners have been curious, driven, and diverse! I am so excited to see what they achieve. We have a renewed focus on keeping our portfolios updated and preparing for the end of the the academic year.
📖Library
Happy National Poetry Month!
We are looking forward to National Haiku Day (April 17), Tell a Story Day (April 27), and Poem in Your Pocket Day (April 29) - there’s so much to celebrate in April! We are working to get poems into learners’ hands but, even more, we are encouraging learners to bring in poems that are meaningful to them!
We also have some exciting news to share: we were chosen to receive a free copy of Mychal Threets’ new book I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy. This book perfectly encapsulates Katie’s philosophy of creating an environment that fosters curiosity and where everyone is welcome. Picture books are for readers of all ages!
Check out our library catalog and digital resources on Destiny Discover!
NAVS & Learn MKE
It’s hard to believe that March has already come and gone. Much of the month was dedicated to preparing for and completing mandated Wisconsin state assessments. Nearly all learners successfully finished the WI Forward Exam, PreACT, and ACT—an impressive accomplishment. Scores will be available in the coming months, and we extend our sincere congratulations to everyone for their hard work and perseverance.
Even with a strong focus on testing, learners continued to engage in meaningful, hands-on experiences within the community. Owen’s Place has quickly become a favorite gathering spot, offering opportunities to learn, connect, and have fun. This month, learners explored baking by making and decorating cakes while also diving into the history behind this beloved dessert. Along the way, they practiced using measuring tools, learned how a hand mixer works, and discovered—sometimes the hard way—the importance of keeping the beaters in the bowl! The experience also emphasized responsibility, as learners participated in cleaning up, washing dishes, and organizing their workspace.
Another highlight at Owen’s Place was participation in an open mic activity—an exciting first for many. Learners wrote and performed original poems, raps, and song lyrics, building confidence as they shared their creativity with peers. The event was filled with energy, laughter, and a strong sense of community. Additional activities included learning to play pool, foosball, and basketball; participating in arts and crafts; cooking burgers and brats; working on computers; and engaging in SEL-focused games like Jenga with staff. We are incredibly grateful to Owen’s Place for their continued support and welcoming environment.
A standout experience this month was our introduction to golf as part of physical education. Learners had the unique opportunity to receive instruction from a highly respected community golf instructor. While many were surprised by the level of skill and technique required, they were equally proud of how quickly they improved. We’re excited to build on this experience with another upcoming session using the golf simulator.
We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Coach Erica, who concluded her time with us earlier this month. Her contributions to our financial literacy programming have been invaluable, and we are grateful for the time and expertise she shared with our learners. We look forward to continuing our partnership with her in the future.
In addition, we are excited to announce a new partnership with AchieveMKE. Through this collaboration, learners will participate in sessions twice a month focused on interview preparation and job readiness skills—an important step toward future success.
March may have flown by, but it was certainly filled with growth, achievement, and memorable experiences for our LearnMKE community.
Owen's Place
Lab Team Pursuit
Baking Cakes
IBL
This Month’s Focus: Bottle Rockets 🚀
Last week, interested learners took on the challenge of building bottle rockets! They designed and cut out wings, used hot glue to attach them to bottles, and worked through troubleshooting any design or adhesion issues along the way.
Once the weather cooperates, we’ll head outside to launch them and see whose rocket flies the highest—definitely something fun to look forward to!
🌸 Let’s Learn Japanese! 🌸
We are excited to introduce a new language learning opportunity at Norris Academy—Let’s Learn Japanese! This lab was created in response to strong learner interest and curiosity about the Japanese language and culture.
My name is Sam, and I am the Art Specialist at Norris Academy. I had the opportunity to study abroad in Osaka, Japan, where I spent a year immersing myself in both the language and culture. Through this experience, I developed a strong foundation in Japanese, and I am excited to share that knowledge with our learners at a beginner level.
Learners in the lab are starting by learning Hiragana, one of the foundational writing systems in Japanese. From there, they will progress to Katakana, and eventually begin developing basic speaking and conversational skills.
So far, learners have shown great enthusiasm and dedication. Their curiosity and engagement have made this class a rewarding experience, and it has been wonderful to see their excitement grow as they begin to understand and use a new language.
We are thrilled to offer this opportunity and look forward to supporting learners as they continue building their skills and exploring their passion for language learning. 🌏✨
AdeptiCon
This month, some of our learners continued to grow their interests and skills through participation in our Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) club, where they engaged in collaborative storytelling, strategic thinking, and problem-solving in a highly engaging, learner-driven environment.
Building on this passion, a group of learners had the opportunity to attend AdeptiCon, a premier four-day tabletop wargaming convention held annually in Milwaukee. The experience allowed learners to immerse themselves in miniature gaming, explore hobby seminars, and observe competitive play across systems such as Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar, and Star Wars: Shatterpoint.
These experiences reflect our commitment to honoring learner interests while creating authentic opportunities for connection, creativity, and real-world engagement.
Tree Trimming with YPG&A
Culinary Immersion
Learning Japanese
The Navigator's Corner
Wow, this might have been the fastest March ever—or at least it feels that way! We have continued experimenting with small electronics and soldering, including building and repairing various items. While that may sound vague, the wide variety of electronics we’ve been working with has included many small, intricate projects.
Learners have been crafting and building songs using Soundtrap and GarageBand. They’ve also been getting their hands dirty planting seeds, and we’re excited to see sprouts beginning to emerge.
In our afternoon exploratory block, learners are exploring many new opportunities, including examining their DNA, making artistic keychains, and building homemade bottle rockets, to name just a few.
MATC Tour
Circuit Building
Piano Pursuit
Artventure
🌷 Artventure Springs Into Creativity 🌼
March has been filled with fresh inspiration, creativity, and artistic growth in the Artventure space! Learners have embraced the changing season, bringing new energy and ideas into their work as they continue to explore a variety of artistic mediums.
🎨 Independent Creativity & Skill Building
Many learners have continued their personal creations, showing focus and dedication as they develop their ideas over time. Others have been building their skills through hands-on work in clay, scratch art, painting, and drawing. It has been exciting to see their confidence grow as they experiment, problem-solve, and bring their visions to life.
🌱 Week of Service: Spreading Art in Our Community
During our Week of Service, learners worked together to paint rocks that will be distributed throughout the parks of Mukwonago and the Norris School District campus. This project allowed learners to use their creativity to spread kindness and joy within the community, showing how art can make a positive impact beyond the classroom.
As we continue through the spring season, we look forward to even more creativity, growth, and artistic exploration.
💚 Thank you for supporting our creative community!
Tech Guy Humor
password?
It's not stroganoff!
Staff Birthdays: April
24 Kyle
Mark Your Calendar
4/3 Flexible Learning Day: NO SCHOOL for Learners
4/24 Spirit Day: Hat Day
All learners and staff are encouraged to wear a hat.April Week of Service: Rock Painting
Learners will be collecting rocks and painting them to place around the local community.
2025-26 Calendar
Spirit Days
Weeks of Service
Norris Cares
Supporting Learners, Strengthening Community
Norris Cares, founded in 2023 by Norris School District staff, was created to meet the growing needs of learners in our community. Many learners face challenges such as food insecurity, unstable housing, and limited access to essentials like clothing and hygiene products. These hardships can make it difficult for them to focus on school, stay engaged, and believe in their potential.
We believe every learner deserves the opportunity to thrive—academically, socially, and personally. Meeting their basic needs allows learners to concentrate on learning, build confidence, and fully engage. Access to meals, warm clothing, and supplies not only supports their well-being but also fosters dignity, stability, and belonging.
The need in our community is great, and Norris Cares cannot meet it alone. We depend on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and community partners to make a difference. Monetary and physical donations—whether food, clothing, or hygiene products—are used exclusively to support learners and are distributed equitably based on need.
Your support directly impacts learners’ lives and strengthens our entire community.
For questions or to donate, contact:
Amber Ehrmann, Community Liaison
aehrmann@norrisacademywi.org
Together, we can uplift our learners and build a brighter future.
Reminders
The Norris School District wants to remind families about items that should not be brought to school. Including items such as pillows, blankets, open beverage containers, money, and backpacks. These items can be distracting and potentially harmful, so they will not be allowed in school. For more details on our policies, please visit our website at https://norrisacademywi.org/.
Online Absence Form
Please use the online absence form if your learner will not be attending school on any given day due to illness, vacation, personal leave, or another reason.
Norris School District
Email: hello@norrisacademywi.org
Website: https://norrisacademywi.org/
Location: W247 S10395 Center Drive Mukwonago, WI 53149
Phone: (262) 662-5911
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/norrisacademywi/
Twitter: @NorrisAcademyWi