Norris News

Join us on Friday, November 21, from 11:45 AM–1:15 PM for our Trimester 1 Learner Showcase. Learners will be presenting on stage, discussing their work in small groups, and displaying projects to share the evidence of their learning from this trimester. From artwork and published stories to musical performances and more, there will be a variety of accomplishments to explore. We are especially pleased to welcome our virtual learners from the Learn WCS learning hub in Milwaukee, who will join us on campus to celebrate their work. This event is one of three trimester showcases held each year and is a favorite for everyone. We look forward to celebrating all of our learners' success with you.

This newsletter also includes updates from our academic lab spaces, where learners continue to engage in hands-on projects and deepen their learning. We have been inspiring curiosity in the community through job fairs, collaborating with multiple partners, and exploring many new opportunities. We hope you enjoy learning more about all the ways our learners are growing, creating, and connecting.

My name is Maurice Taylor and I'm one of the learners at Norris Academy, who lives at Bakari. I’m the newest intern for the Norris News. Being the newest intern for Norris News is a great opportunity for me to learn responsibility. I'm interested in being an entrepreneur one day and being an intern will help me learn how to communicate more effectively. My first assignment as an intern was to observe and visit different spaces around the school during the Halloween activities. I gathered quotes from the learners about their experience on Halloween. They described the activities they were engaging in while talking to me for my article.

Halloween was an exciting day for Norris Academy. The staff here at Norris tried to make Halloween a special day for the learners by hosting several different activities for the learners to attend. For instance, Amy’s space had an Murder Mystery with an outline of a body in the middle of the floor. The learners had to interview witnesses to get clues to determine who committed the crime. They also had a list of suspects and had to use detective reasoning to find the guilty suspect. Additionally, Sam made the day even more special by offering the learners various masks to paint. “It was fire!” said Jay, a 7th grader. Stephanie offered face painting to the learners while Renee and Amber hosted a movie with popcorn in the auditorium.

Several learners and staff dressed up for the occasion such as Heidi, Learning Design Math Specialist impersonated Kris K, Director of Learning, Amy dressed up as Waldo from Where's Waldo, and several learners dressed up as Ghostface from Scream. Overall Halloween was a magical experience for me and several other learners. The participation made Halloween a memorable experience.

📚ELA

October Writing Highlights: From Cringe-Worthy Openers to Persuasive Powerhouses

October was a month of imaginative extremes in our English Language Arts (ELA) labs! Learners kicked things off with a hilariously dreadful challenge: crafting the worst opening line to a novel ever imagined. Inspired by Edward Bulwer-Lytton’s famously clunky “It was a dark and stormy night…,” learners aimed to write the most over-the-top, adjective-stuffed, cringe-inducing first sentence possible.

Congratulations to Malik, our contest winner, for this gloriously chaotic masterpiece:

“On a moistly dank and ominously shadow-drenched Halloween night, when the crescent moon looked like a sinister banana dipped in ghostly mayonnaise, twelve-and-a-half shrieking ravens exploded from the crooked, cobweb-slathered chimney of Old Man Crumblebones’ pumpkin-shaped mansion with a cacophony of doom so loud it made the skeletons in the cemetery jiggle their tibias like maracas at a discount fiesta.”

Honorable mentions go to Hezzekiyah, Malachi, Terrion, KP, Hector, and Gabe W. Thank you to everyone who entered and embraced the art of writing badly; brilliantly!

Many thanks to Johnna Noll, Executive Director and June Sadowski, Director of Engagement for agreeing to be our judges!

Financial Literacy: Empowering Learners for the Future

This fall, financial literacy has taken center stage across both Norris Academy and Learn MKE campuses. In collaboration with Erica Odom (https://ericaodomjourney.com), our ELA labs are integrating real-world financial concepts into learning through our participation in her Financial Boot Camp. Coach Erica is guiding our high school learners through activities that help them distinguish between needs and wants, envision their future goals, and make thoughtful financial decisions. We’re excited to see what imaginative and practical ideas Coach Erica brings to our learners next!

At the same time, Learner Support Specialist, Amy has been leading financial literacy lessons for all our middle school learners. Her instruction covers essential topics such as budgeting basics, saving and spending strategies, understanding credit and debt, long-term financial planning, and advertising awareness.

These lessons are helping learners build the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate their financial futures with clarity and purpose—just in time for the holiday season!

With the holidays approaching, learners are learning how to create a budget for gift giving and entertaining guests. To add a festive touch, Amy will host a Curiosity Crew session on making homemade peppermint bark!

Persuasive Writing in Progress

Also beginning in October and continuing through this month, learners are diving into the full writing process to craft persuasive essays. Topics learners have chosen range from cell phones in school and electric vehicles to curfews and financial literacy. Once finalized, essays will be published on our ELA website: https://sites.google.com/norrisacademywi.org/ela/home

On that same website, you’ll also find learner examples of narrative writing and creative uses of figurative language.

Figurative Language in Action

Our exploration of figurative language continues! Learners are identifying and applying a variety of techniques in their writing, including:

• Idioms

• Similes

• Metaphors

• Hyperbole

• Onomatopoeia

• Alliteration

• Personification

These tools are helping learners bring their ideas to life with vivid, expressive detail.

Writing About Gratitude

Throughout November, learners and educators at Norris are turning our attention to gratitude in ELA labs. Together, we’re exploring in our writing what it means to appreciate the people, experiences, and moments that enrich our lives.

Amy is working with learners to complete a Thankfulness Journal, reflecting each week on the positive aspects of their lives.

Rooted in our work with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we understand that practicing gratitude can help us face challenges with greater resilience and perspective. Focusing on what we value helps strengthen our emotional well-being, as well as, builds a supportive learning community.

📊Mathematics

For math in October at Norris, learners explored different types of graphing and graphing equations. They completed surveys, collected data through observation, and even worked with candy to investigate various ways to gather, analyze, interpret, and graph data. Older learners also practiced using slope-intercept form in graphing and were introduced to standard form.

Next month, we will move on to projects that showcase real-world applications of graphing, as well as the equations and graphing practices we have learned and practiced in the lab.

🔬Science

Learners in Science have been investigating topics in chemistry. They’ve learned about atoms and elements as a foundation and have had opportunities to deepen their understanding through hands-on experiments, such as mixing compounds and even making copper!

In addition, learners have enjoyed outdoor science experiences, exploring invasive species, tree identification, bird migration, and pond ecosystems.

📜Social Studies

Our younger learners have been studying Ancient Greece, focusing on Athens and Sparta, and even held their own “Olympic-style” games, with Sparta taking the win! They also explored Caribbean Voodoo, the origins of zombies, and Día de los Muertos. Next, they’ll dive into Ancient Rome and Ancient China, examining their governments, innovations, and lasting influences.

Our older learners continued their study of American History, covering mercantilism, the Salem Witch Trials, the French and Indian War, and the tax acts that angered the colonists. Their lively discussions show strong engagement with the injustices of the era — including some playful blame on Britain for current taxes!

They also connected history to current events, discussing topics such as the government shutdown, peace efforts in Gaza, and Hurricane Melissa. Next up: the American Revolution and the formation of the U.S. government.

🔍Orientation

Our new learners are busy preparing for the Trimester 1 Showcase and completing their profiles. We’re excited to share their vision boards, which will be displayed in the Vision Hall, just off the library, following the showcase. Each learner has also been creating a digital portfolio to compile the projects they are most proud of.

📖Library

November is shaping up to be an exciting month in the library!

We’re thrilled to welcome Raymond Santana, who will be joining us virtually on Wednesday, November 12th, to discuss his new book, Pushing Hope. We’re eager to hear his inspiring story and learn about his writing process. Thanks to a partnership with the publisher, and the generosity of The Conscious Kid, each learner who participates will receive a free copy of the book to keep!

Then, on Tuesday, November 18th, we’ll be livestreaming the “Teens Read the National Book Awards” event. Because we were among the first 25 registrants, our library received a free copy of each of the five finalist titles! We’re so excited to offer our learners this opportunity to engage with a national literary arts celebration.

Finally, we’re proud to promote the Kids’ Choice Awards, a program organized by the Bridges Library System. Learners in grades 4–6 who read at least three books from the Kids’ Choice list will be eligible to vote for their favorite title. This year, all the books are available right here in our library!

Be sure to check out our library catalog and digital resources on Destiny Discover!

October’s Over — and What a Month It Was!

October was packed with hands-on, interest-based learning activities that kept our learners engaged, curious, and having fun! Here are just a few highlights from the month:

• Adventure Ed High Ropes Extravaganza – soaring to new heights and building teamwork skills!

• Grilled Cheese Showdown – a tasty competition that challenged culinary creativity.

• Mukwonago Community Library Metaspace Exploration – diving into virtual worlds and sparking curiosity.

• Build My Future Trades Career Fair – exploring career pathways and future opportunities.

• Role-Playing Adventure Club – immersing in epic storytelling.

• Archery Bonanza – hitting the mark with focus and precision!

• Wheeled Adventures – rolling into fun and active learning.

• Escape Room Shenanigans – teamwork and critical thinking in action.

• Personal Finance Sessions with a Radio Host – learning life skills in an exciting, real-world context.

• Gardening Greatness – getting hands dirty and cultivating curiosity.

• Whirling Writing Workshops – unleashing creativity through storytelling and expression.

• Haunted Spooky Festivities – embracing the spirit of the season with thrills and chills!

October was full of excitement, creativity, and learning experiences that went beyond the classroom — and we can’t wait to see what November brings!

Things have been happening in the Learning Center!

Learners have been busy exploring their musical talents — learning songs on the piano, drums, bass, and both electric and acoustic guitars. Some are mastering tunes from well-known bands, while others are writing their own original songs, earning music and ELA competencies through the art of songwriting.

Morning fireside conversations have sparked deep reflection and meaningful connection. There’s something about gathering around a fire that inspires honesty, vulnerability, and trust — creating space for authentic relationships to grow.

Learners have also been taking advantage of the last bits of nice weather, learning to rollerblade, skateboard, and for a few brave souls, even ride a unicycle!

We’ve heard some incredible beats coming from the studio — and a few that make us say “huh?” more than “uhh” — but all in the spirit of creativity and growth.

We’re excited to wrap up Trimester 1 with energy and enthusiasm and can’t wait to showcase our learners’ performances at the upcoming Learning Showcase!

Guest Speakers

• Ms. Katie (from campus): Introduced Learning Ally.

• WCS Workforce: Shared job-related tips and connected learners with job opportunities.

• UNCOM: Presented job opportunities and helped learners complete applications to begin the process.

• Katy (Michael’s mom): Spoke to learners about employer expectations, interviewing skills and tips, and conducted mock interviews.

• Ms. Jae – WCS Workforce: Shared additional work-related course offerings (Mon–Thurs, 11:30–12:30, in the room next to our classroom) including job preparation, resume/cover letter writing, interviewing skills, and job hunting.

• Coach Erica: Discussed savings accounts, how banks work, had students create savings jars, and introduced investments, interest, and the dangers of credit cards.

• Amy McBride – Esthetician: Discussed education requirements, schooling options and costs, what estheticians do, and the job market/future outlook.

• Cory & Ashleigh: Spoke to learners about real estate, entrepreneurship, licensing requirements and costs, and the importance of continued education.

ELOs (Experiential Learning Opportunities)

• Domes: Took the city bus to Domes, continued study of biomes, practiced photography, and developed skills in note-taking, collaboration, time management, and reading/writing.

• Radio Station Visit with Coach Erica: Visited 3rd Street Market, ate sushi, explored multiple radio stations, and participated on-air.

In-Class Activities

🔬Science & Experiments

• Dancing Popcorn (Chemistry)
• Saving Fred (Scientific Method & teamwork)
• Food Chains & Food Webs
• Biome Study
• WI Wildlife – Animal Furs
• Cell Structures

📚Reading & Writing

• Journal Writing

• Personal Goal Reflections (Paragraph Writing)

• Science & Social Studies Non-Fiction Articles

• Fun with Continents – Notetaking from videos, paragraph writing

• Pushing Hope – Pre-author visit work, started reading novel

• Portfolios

• Trimester 1 Learner Showcase Prep

📊Math

• Decimals

• Fractions

• 3-Digit Addition & Subtraction

• Lowest Common Denominator

Enrollment Update

• 3 new learners began on 11/3.

• 4 more learners are interested; meeting with SMILE for a possible new hub.

🎃 Artventure: October — A Spooktacular Season of Creativity! 👻

October has been a bewitchingly busy month in the Artventure space! Learners have filled the room with color, creativity, and a touch of spooky fun as they explored seasonal projects and cultural celebrations.

🌕 Lanterns and the Mooncake Festival

We started the month by decorating beautiful paper lanterns in celebration of the Chinese Mooncake Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival. This festival is one of the most cherished traditions in Chinese culture, symbolizing reunion, gratitude, and the full harvest moon. Families typically gather to share mooncakes, sweet pastries with rich fillings, while appreciating the glowing full moon as a sign of unity and good fortune. Learners enjoyed bringing this tradition to life through their lantern designs, filling the space with light and color.

🎨 Spooky and Sweet Creations

As October unfolded, learners embraced the Halloween spirit by painting scary movie characters, creating mini pumpkin creatures inspired by favorites like Minions and Axolotls, and designing unique mask templates that they later painted and wore on October 31st. Each project reflected their personal style and growing artistic skills.

Many learners also focused on individual projects tied to their competencies — from painting and sculpting to design planning and creative problem-solving — showing wonderful progress in both imagination and technique.

🎃 Pumpkin Power with Camp Timber-lee

This month, Artventure also partnered with Camp Timber-lee to help carve 33 pumpkins for their annual Pumpkin Walk held on October 25th. Learners showed incredible teamwork and creativity, contributing to a glowing display that lit up the night and delighted visitors.

As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, Artventure continues to shine bright with learner creativity and collaboration. We can’t wait to see what artistic adventures November will bring!

🍁 Happy Fall and Happy Creating! 🎨

Maurice is our featured Bakari learner for the month of October. Maurice joined Norris at the end of September, and in the short time he has been here, he has already shown himself to be a motivated learner. He is focused on graduating from high school before the end of the school year and hopes to play basketball at the collegiate level. He has also secured an internship at school as the Norris News Intern.

We are excited to welcome Maurice to our learning community and celebrate him as he continues working toward his goals!

In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) learners practiced the LAUGH skill. The LAUGH skill is a way to practice distress tolerance by: letting go of worries, applying yourself, using healthy coping skills, setting goals, and having fun. This skill was practiced through engaging in team building activities, playing new card games, and cooking new recipes.

📍Milwaukee's online guide to everything for kids, teens, & families!

https://milwaukee.kidsoutandabout.com/

📍New State Suicide Prevention Plan

Prevent Suicide Wisconsin recently released Wisconsin's Suicide Prevention Plan: Strategies for Action and Hope.

Why was the computer cold?

It left it's Windows open.

11/20 2-Ball Basketball Tournament

11/21 T1 Learner Showcase

Join us from 12:00 PM–1:15 PM in the auditorium to see a full trimester of learning on display.

11/24 Trimester 1 Ends

11/25 Trimester 2 Begins

11/27 🦃 Thanksgiving -No School

11/28 No School (Learners) Flexible Learning Opportunity (Staff)

12 Amy

21 Scott

26 Ira

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.

As the new school year begins, we want 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/.

https://www.norrisacademywi.org/learners-families/calendar.cfm

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.

Click Here: https://tinyurl.com/onlineabsenceform

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

Norris School District prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. The notice of nondiscrimination is located at https://www.norrisacademywi.org/