Cat Tracks

February always feels like the stretch of the school year where focus really matters. We’re well into the semester, routines are established, and the daily work of teaching and learning is in full swing. Classrooms are busy with new units, projects, performances, and preparation for what’s ahead.

This month also brings a lot of activity beyond the classroom. From winter activities and events to conferences and planning for next year’s courses, our students are balancing a full plate. I continue to be proud of the way they show up — for their learning, for each other, and for our school community.

As we move through these winter weeks, thank you for your continued partnership. Regular attendance, consistent communication, and encouragement at home make a real difference. If you ever have questions or need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to work with your students each day.

Candidates for the 2026 Minnesota Teacher of the Year have been announced, and Chisago Lakes has one educator who was nominated. Bryon Rogers, English, Chisago Lakes High School. Mr. Rogers was among 128 candidates for the award statewide. The field of possible candidates for this year’s Minnesota Teacher of the Year honor has been narrowed to 30 and our own Mr. Rogers is included in this selection! Minnesota’s Teacher of the Year program celebrates a tradition of excellence in teaching throughout the state. Eligible candidates include teachers from pre-kindergarten through grade 12, Early Childhood Family Education, and Adult Basic Education programs in public or private schools.

The 62nd Minnesota Teacher of the Year will be announced on May 3. Over the coming weeks, a panel of community leaders will name semifinalists and finalists.

The Chisago Lakes DECA chapter is proud to announce that the new Chisago Lakes school store, "Wally's", has officially earned Gold Certification through the DECA Inc. School-Based Enterprise (SBE) program — the highest level of recognition awarded to student-run retail operations nationwide. Earning Gold Certification is an impressive accomplishment. Only a select number of school-based enterprises across the country meet the standards required for this distinction. The recognition confirms that Chisago Lakes students are operating their store at a level comparable to real-world retail businesses. The DECA School-Based Enterprise certification program evaluates student-run stores on rigorous business standards, including marketing, finance, operations, and customer service. To earn Gold Certification, students must demonstrate that their store operates as a true business — not just a school spirit shop. The application process requires detailed documentation of financial records, promotional strategies, inventory systems, risk management procedures, and overall business performance. This certification award earns the team a trip to DECA's International Career Development Conference in Atlanta, Georgia in April. During the academy, participants will experience dynamic professional development sessions specific to the entrepreneurship field, share ideas and learn from other SBE's, and present an oral presentation to a business professional judge in a competition setting.

While the entire Chisago Lakes DECA program manages this project, it is run alongside the marketing students here at Chisago Lakes High School. It is led by students Chaney Evans and Amanda Gibson, with advisor Hannah Lindstrom. From developing a brand identity and product mix to implementing pricing strategies and promotional campaigns, students have taken full ownership of the enterprise. They conduct market research to determine which apparel and merchandise students want most, analyze sales data to make purchasing decisions, and create marketing campaigns to drive traffic and increase revenue.

Their hard work, professionalism, and dedication made this accomplishment possible. The team would like to thank Chisago Lakes admin for enthusiastically supporting the project from the beginning, as well as the MN Perkins grant program, Chisago Lakes Area Community Foundation, and multiple private donors for the financial backing to start the project. Gold Certification is not just an award — it is a testament to excellence in student-driven business! Click the button below to access and shop the Wally's School Store here:

Beginning Monday, January 19th, the cost of a parking permit is $75.00. Price for a 2nd driver in the same household remains at $65.00 throughout the school year. Parking permits are purchased online only. Click the button below to access the payment portal. BEFORE purchasing your parking permit, students and parents need to review the "Driving and Parking Regulations". After purchasing your permit, your student can pick it up in the front office during school hours.

• Please remember that ALL vehicles must have a current parking permit displayed in their rearview mirror. Cars that do not have a parking permit displayed will receive a warning ticket. After 3 warnings, your car could be towed and/or parking privileges revoked. Please visit the front office with any questions regarding parking.

Appointments / Early Dismissals:

• You will get a green pass before leaving.

• If returning, check in at the attendance office even if it’s passing time.

Late Arrival:

• Check in at the attendance office to get a pass and confirm you’re in the building.

Tardy Passes:

• Unexcused (white slip received at Door #1 or Door 17) : Go directly to class.

• Excused (white slip - Received from Heather Turner): Stop in the attendance office to code your absence.

Illness:

• Sick during the day? Check out through the nurse’s office.

Attendance Incorrect:

1. Talk to your teacher for that class

2. Have your teacher email Heather Turner confirmation of your attendance

Parents/Guardians calling their student in for an absence, or requesting an early release for their student, can do so in three ways:

1. Online using Parent Vue
2. Send an email or call Attendance HSAttendance@isd2144.org 651-213-2513
   Leave a message on the attendance line, with your student's name and reason for absence. If leaving early or arriving late, please note that time. Messages are checked continuously throughout the day
3. Send a note with your students to be given to Attendance
   

LEAVING EARLY: Use one of the above methods for requesting the absence, then the following process is done:

• Your student will receive a green release pass from attendance to leave class and the building.
• Passes are delivered to students in class during the day or can be picked up at the attendance window.
• Parents do not need to enter the building to pick up their student. Students will use the green pass for approval to leave and scan out using their ID/phone to leave the building.
• Students should be picked up during the day from the front door (Door#1)
• If your student drives, they may leave from door 17 with a pass from attendance

ARRIVING LATE: Students who are arriving late will need to scan in with their ID Card or Phone at either Door 17 or Door 1. Once they arrive, they will need to check into the attendance window and receive an admit pass to class. Students arriving late will need to be excused for the times they have been absent using one of the 3 above-mentioned processes. Students will be unexcused until an excused reason is given.

*Students/Families have 3 days from the date of absence to be called in for an excused absence, such as an Appointment or illness. After the 3-day mark, changes cannot be made to an absence per Chisago County Rules.**

Any questions regarding Attendance, please reach out to Heather Turner

HTurner@isd2144.org
651-213-2513

Registration for 2026-27

All high school students have completed the registration process. Keep in mind what students submitted were class requests, students are not guaranteed to get into the classes they requested. Each year we have some classes that are not offered due to the low number of requests. We also have classes that are very popular and therefore not all students are able to get into a class.

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

If you have not completed the FAFSA application you still have time. Go to studentaid.gov to create a FSA id for both student and one parent, then you are able to start the FAFSA application. Some colleges use the FAFSA form to determine your eligibility for their grants, scholarships and loans.

ACT Testing

On Wednesday, April 8th those juniors that pre-registered will be taking the ACT here at Chisago Lakes High School. Testing will start at the beginning of the school day. Letters will be mailed or emailed home in Late March with specific details about test location and what items are allowed or not allowed in the testing room.

Save the Date - Senior Awards Night is Monday, May 4th at 7:00 pm in the CLHS Performing Arts Center. Students who are receiving a scholarship will get an invitation in the mail about 2 weeks prior to the event.

Transcripts

Current and former students and parents can order high school transcripts through Parchment and have them sent electronically to colleges, universities, NCAA, and other institutions. Parchment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. There is a small fee per transcript request. Please register your student with Parchment today! If you have questions, please contact your student’s counselor or Lisa Lund at 213-2510.

The Link to Parchment and many other resources can be found on the Guidance Office website. Click the button below to access these resources and links.

The deadline for the CLEF and Moody scholarships is Wednesday, March 4th. Local scholarships are now available through a Google Form. There are also a few paper applications available to print. Please have your student contact Heather Turner in the Attendance Office or email any questions to hturner@isd2144.org.Be sure to check each scholarship for its specific deadline. Transcript requests for scholarships will be free when requested through Heather via google form that was shared with seniors. Click the button below to access the scholarship page, where you can find all of the information and forms.

The 2025–2026 school year is moving quickly as we have already passed the midpoint of the third term. It has been an exciting and rewarding year for the Chisago Lakes Agriscience Department, filled with growth, new opportunities, and outstanding student accomplishments.

This year, we were fortunate to expand our department with the addition of a new teacher and new courses, providing even more opportunities for students to explore agriculture and related career pathways. Our department is proud to include Mrs. Mellum in her 13th year of teaching, Mr. Ewert in his fourth year, and Ms. Besaw in her first year of teaching. A unique connection among our team is that all three of us earned our teaching degrees from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls. Mrs. Mellum and Mr. Ewert both hold Master’s degrees, and Ms. Besaw holds a Bachelor’s degree.

The Agriscience Department offers a wide variety of courses designed to engage students in hands-on, real-world learning. Current course offerings include: Small Animal Science, Large Animal Science I and II, Natural Resources, Forestry, Fish and Wildlife, Landscape Horticulture, Greenhouse Management, Floriculture and Advanced Floriculture. Next year, we will rotate in Horse Science, Plant Science, and Environmental Science to continue expanding learning opportunities for students. We are also excited to have added two new courses this year: Career Exploration and Work-Based Learning. Agriscience courses are part of our Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming, which provides students with more than just academic knowledge. CTE programs equip students with real-world skills that help them become career-ready. Research consistently shows that CTE courses boost graduation rates, increase student engagement, and build leadership and transferable skills that benefit students in any career field. Our students amaze us every day with their creativity, curiosity, and drive to learn.

Our FFA members have been working incredibly hard this year. Most Career Development Events (CDEs) are complete, and we are proud to have state-qualified teams in: Horse Evaluation, Dairy Evaluation, Poultry Evaluation, Soils and Agricultural Mechanics. The Minnesota State FFA Convention is quickly approaching, and our teams will compete April 19–21, 2026, in St. Paul and Minneapolis. Before that, we will host the final round of CDEs on April 7 at Chisago Lakes, welcoming all Region IV FFA teams to the Wildcat Community Center. Our members will take the lead in preparing for and hosting this large event.

This week, our FFA chapter is celebrating National FFA Week with school-wide activities and dress-up days to engage the entire student body. Officers will visit Lakeside Elementary to read The Day the Farmers Quit to fourth grade classes and host a coloring contest. The week will conclude with our Annual Staff Appreciation Breakfast, where FFA members cook and serve a full breakfast to high school staff as a thank you for their continued support.

In recognition of their dedication and commitment, several of our members have been awarded the FFA blue jacket through the Blue Jackets–Bright Futures program. Made possible through the generosity of sponsors, this program provides deserving students with the opportunity to proudly wear the symbol of FFA membership. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who make this possible and allow our members to embody the values of leadership and excellence.

Looking ahead, we are eagerly anticipating our Annual Farm City Days, which will take place in the high school parking lot and greenhouse area. This community event will feature demonstrations, animals, games, machinery displays, food, and hands-on planting activities in the greenhouse. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students, families, and community members to connect with agriculture in meaningful ways.

In essence, Chisago Lakes FFA and the Agriscience Department continue to stand as symbols of excellence, striving toward our goals while fostering community, stewardship, and leadership. As we navigate the challenges and triumphs of the year ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to leadership, personal growth, career success, and agricultural education.

Together, we are sowing the seeds of success and cultivating a brighter future for our students and for the agricultural industry as a whole.

Work-Based Learning (WBL) connects classroom learning to real-world career experiences. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, students gain hands-on experience that helps them explore career interests, build professional skills, and better understand future opportunities. WBL allows students to apply what they are learning in school to authentic workplace settings. Whether through job shadowing, internships, career speakers, workplace tours, or project-based partnerships, students gain valuable insight into various industries and professions.

Work-Based Learning helps students see the connection between what they learn in school and how those skills are used in the real world. By engaging in authentic workplace experiences, students build confidence, responsibility, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities that are essential for success after graduation. These experiences also help students make informed decisions about college and career pathways while strengthening resumes and applications.

Beyond benefiting students, Work-Based Learning strengthens our entire community. Local businesses have the opportunity to mentor and guide future professionals, develop a skilled talent pipeline, and build strong partnerships with schools. When schools and industry work together, students graduate better prepared, and our local workforce grows stronger.

Get Involved - We welcome community partners who are interested in supporting student success by hosting interns, offering job shadowing opportunities, speaking to classes, or collaborating on student projects. WBL can be built directly into a student’s school day and schedule. For juniors and seniors, Work-Based Learning is available as an elective course and can count for elective credit each term during their junior and senior years. This allows students to gain meaningful workplace experience while still meeting graduation requirements.

Together, we can create meaningful learning experiences that prepare our students for college, careers, and beyond. If you are interested in learning more about Work-Based Learning, please connect with Julie Mellum at Chisago Lakes High School. Email jmellum@isd2144.org or office phone 651-213-2572.

Each term various departments select students who show the Wildcat Way (Wisdom, Integrity, Leadership & Dedication). These students have shown to be great students inside and outside the classroom! The Term 2 students selected were celebrated on Friday, January 30th, with teacher recognition and donuts for breakfast.

Front Row- (Left to Right) Sydney Carlson, Luke Leadholm, Elliot Aadland, Teagan Kuntz, Samantha Miller

Back Row- (Left to Right) Blake Carlson, Henry Larson, Maya Wood, Alexis Rangitsch, Brooke Lind, Molly Foy, Shamita Iyer

Not Pictured: Luciana Asleson, James Paschke, Isabelle Holter

This past month, Student Council hosted Snow Days and Sadie's Dance! The week was filled with dress-up days, the Powdbuff Volleyball game on Wednesday evening, a pep fest on Friday, and to round up the week, the semi-formal dance on Friday night!

One of the favorite Snow Days events is the annual Powder Buff volleyball tournament. It was an exciting night of volleyball. The championship game was held during our Pepfest on Friday.

This past term, The Sports & Entertainment Marketing courses got a behind-the-scenes tour of the Target Center- shooting hoops on the court, visiting locker rooms and suites, and touring press rooms. They even got a personalized presentation from the stadium's staff on careers in sports & marketing. They learned behind-the-scenes details about the economic impact of the stadium, handling sponsorships, and hosting games, concerts, and events. It was a fantastic experience!

This term, students enrolled in Sports & Entertainment Marketing will be visiting the newly branded Grand Casino Arena for a look at their marketing strategies and a full tour.

This February Student Council sponsored A "Crush for your Crush" where students could purchase a Crush soda with a note to be delivered to friends on Friday Feb 13th before Valentines day. While the student Go WILD committee sponsored the Valentine box decorating, this year's winner was Mrs. Dilly's PAWZ!

Our Chisago Lakes HS Select Choir was excited to host BorderCrosSING, a professional vocal ensemble from Minnesota dedicated to inspiring singers of all ages and known for its dynamic performances and commitment to music education. In addition to rehearsing and performing a song with our students, BorderCrosSING shared a concert showcasing a wide range of Latin American choral music. This visit was made possible by a grant from Chorus America and through the ¡Dale! BorderCrosSING Education Outreach program, a program designed to connect students with high-quality choral experiences.

Students in metals 2 created these beautiful metal roses just in time for Valentines day. This is a fun project that requires the students to use multiple tools and techniques to create these works of art!

College Spanish 2 took a field trip to Around The World- Spanish Day at the Minnesota Zoo, and had some lunch at Don Julio's. Students listened to presentations given in Spanish about animals and responded to questions about the presentations in Spanish.

On January 26th, the 10th annual Chisago Lakes Musical Extravaganza was held. We celebrated and showcased the hard work and growth of over 500 music students in grades 8-12. There was a whole lot of talent in all of the performances. We are so fortunate to have all of these incredibly talented students in our school and community. Thank you to our music directors for all you do to prepare this unforgettable event.

On Friday February 20th students celebrated mid-term with a party in their pawz classes.

Spring activity registration night will be held on February 23, 2026. Additional information will be emailed to all students and families later this month. Please complete registration online, submit the required fee, and ensure your student has an up-to-date sports physical on file (valid for three years). Early registration is greatly appreciated. Registration will close on March 4.

Visit our activities webpage for Wildcat Apparel through our sideline store and for a schedule of events.

Congratulations to Linnea Carlson for being selected as one of the 34 STATE ExCEL Award recipients for 2026! The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) ExCEL Award (Excellence in Community, Education, and Leadership) is a prestigious honor for Minnesota high school juniors, recognizing outstanding participation in school activities, leadership, and community service. The MSHSL selection committee was especially inspired by Linnea's leadership, achievements, and contributions, selecting her as one of this year’s distinguished honorees. Linnea, along with the other recipients wil be recognized during halftime of the 2:00 pm Class AAA Girls Basketball State Championship game.

• Jack Evans- Automotive Services Marketing, Sales Demonstration- Hard Lines
• Chase Swenson- Automotive Services Marketing
• Grayce Prosser- Business Law Team Decision Making Integrated Marketing Campaign- Service
• Chelsea Stipe- Business Law Team Decision Making, Integrated Marketing Campaign- Service
• Alexis Rangitsch- Business Law Team Decision Making
• Olivia Schleif- Business Law Team Decision Making
• Hannah Kray- Buying and Merchandising Team Decision Making & Integrated Marketing Campaign- Event
• Miles Beach- Buying and Merchandising Team Decision Making
• Zoey Nash- Buying and Merchandising Team Decision Making
• Bree Johnson- Buying and Merchandising Team Decision Making
• Madison Stoehr- Entrepreneurship Individual Series
• Olivia Cunningham- Financial Consulting, Human Resources Management
• Libby Carlson- Food Marketing Series
• Shamita Iyer- Hospitality Team Decision Making , Integrated Marketing Campaign- Event
• Amanda Gibson- Hospitality Team Decision Making
• Sofia Magallon Acebello- Human Resources Management
• Sasha Roche- Human Resources Management
• Avery Grudt- Marketing Management Team Decision Making, Integrated Marketing Campaign- Event
• Molly Foy- Marketing Management Team Decision Making, Integrated Marketing Campaign- Event
• Chaney Evans- Restaurant and Food Service Management
• Kaleb Lewis- Sports and Entertainment Marketing
• Blake Norelius- Sports and Entertainment Marketing

Class Fees: Certain elective courses your student chooses to register for may include a fee to help offset the cost of materials associated with those selected courses. When registering for classes, please note those courses. This information will again be shared at the beginning of the term by your student's teacher. All fees are to be paid ONLINE using CLePay/EduTrack. If you are having issues with this payment program, please contact Jen Hegstad in the front office for help. Jhegstad@isd2144.org or at 651-213-2504. Click below to access our payment system.
Outstanding Class Fees:

Students who have not paid their class lab fees during the term will be added to the obligation/outstanding fee list and contacted by the high school front office for payment. Class fees will follow your student through their high school career and affect their ability to receive their senior privileges during their senior year. Seniors will have their privileges revoked with an outstanding Class Fee. Families facing financial difficulties can complete the free/reduced form, which includes the waiver form that allows families to receive additional benefits, including a waiver from class lab fees. If you have any questions on paying your student's lab fees, or how to complete the waiver information, please reach out to Jennifer Hegstad.

EduTrak Software

You will need to create a parent "User Account" and then connect to your student via his/her Student ID and Date of Birth before being able to register. Select the soccer ball above to loging. Once you've created your account, you will just need your user name and password for subsequent visits to the site.

As your student changes classes by term, you can continue to find class supply requirements by accessing the school supply list below.

• Yearbooks can be purchased online through February 21st. Order yours now to guarantee a copy! . Current cost is $95.00
• Purchase your yearbook through JOSTENS. Click the button below to access the Jostens website for information and ordering.

Pictures wanted! Please send photos from any school event, sport, club or classroom activity to kcampbell@isd2144.org

Families of the class of 2026 received an email from Mrs. Yackley about the graduation participation fee of $30.00. This cost includes your cap/gown, diploma, and other items for the graduation ceremony. Please pay this fee online. You can access the payment portal by clicking the button below. **Families who have qualified for the educational benefits program through the food service department and completed the waiver form are exempt**

Please contact Jen Hegstad (jhegstad@isd2144.org or 651-213-2504) with any graduation questions.

When is Graduation?
Class 2026 Graduation will be on Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026 at 7:00 pm in the Wildcat Stadium
Are tickets required to attend graduation?
NO, seating for graduation is open to all, seating is on a first-come basis. Gates to the stadium will open at 5:30 PM
Will graduation be live-streamed? Yes

February is American Heart Month, a great time to focus on heart health and the small choices that can make a big difference—especially for teens as they build lifelong habits.

Why Heart Health Matters for Teens
Heart disease is often thought of as an “adult problem,” but healthy habits start now. Nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management during adolescence all play a role in long-term heart health.

Ways Students Can Support a Healthy Heart

Encourage your student to:

• Stay physically active (aim for 60 minutes of movement most days)
• Eat balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Limit sugary drinks and energy drinks
• Get adequate sleep (8–10 hours per night for teens)
• Manage stress through healthy coping strategies like exercise, music, or talking with trusted adults

February reminds us that hearts matter—both our physical health and how we treat one another. In honor of American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day, we encourage students to practice healthy habits, manage stress, and spread kindness throughout our school community.

All students going home ill during the school day need to be seen in the Health Office.

• If your student is reaching out to you to go home, please have them go to the Health Office so they can be assessed
• Health Office staff will need to speak to a parent/guardian in order to write them a pass to leave school early

• February 19th - Term 3 Conferences

• Mar. 3rd: MCA Science - Semester 1 Bio students

• March 9th - 13th - SPRING BREAK
• March 27th - Last Day of Term 3
• March 30th - No School/Staff Day
• March 31st - First Day of Term 4
• April 3rd - Students/Staff
• April 25th PROM

Website: https://www.isd2144.org/
Location: 29400 Olinda Trail, Lindstrom, MN, USA
Phone: 651-213-2500