Northside Family Connection

Dear Northside Families,

As we begin the month of March, our focus at Northside continues to be on meaningful learning and preparing for the busy spring season ahead. Even during this quieter stretch of the school year, our classrooms remain full of engaged learners and experiences that support both academic growth and strong school connections.

Learning & Growing at Northside

Northside students will again participate in the 2nd Annual Mankato MoonDogs Reading Program, an incentive-based program that encourages students to read outside of the classroom while earning fun rewards. The program is open to all Kindergarten–5th Grade students and will run from March 16, 2026 through May 4, 2026. Please look for the information to come home on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in VIPs. We encourage families to continue supporting reading at home as students build strong literacy habits.

Celebrating Our School Community

We were proud to celebrate our MESPA School of Excellence recognition with our staff and students. This honor reflects the hard work, dedication, and strong partnerships between our staff, students, and families that make Northside a place where students thrive each day. Thank you for being such an important part of our school community.

Spring Conferences

Spring conferences are currently underway and provide a valuable opportunity for families and teachers to connect about student progress and success. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Conference Dates:

• Thursday, March 5 | 3:30 pm –7:30 pm

• Thursday, March 12 | 3:30 pm–7:30 pm

• Friday, March 13 | 7:30 am–3:30 pm

Special Events & Family Connections

• STEM Night 5:30 pm-7:00 pm & Art Show 5:00 pm-7:00 pm – Monday March 9, 2026
  Students and families are invited to explore science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts together during this fun evening that showcases student creativity and learning.

• Donuts with Grownups – Friday, March 20 | 7:30 am – 8:15 am

Students are invited to bring a special adult to school to enjoy donuts and start the morning

together while building positive school connections. (Limit 2 guests)

Important Dates for March

• Friday, March 6th: Teacher Work Day ~ No School
• Monday, March 9th: Start of 3rd Trimester
• Monday, March 9th: STEM Night @ 5:30 pm-7:00 pm & Art Show Night @ 5:00 pm-7:00 pm
• Friday, March 13th: Conferences ~ No School
• Wednesday, March 18th: 3rd Grade Field Trip to the Washington Pavillion from 8:00 am-4:30 pm
• Friday, March 20th: Donuts With GrownUps @ 7:30 am-8:15 am
• Monday, March 30th: Exploradome ~ 3rd Grade (Gym)

Looking Ahead

As we head into the month of March, we are proud of the learning, growth, and positive energy happening throughout Northside each day. Our students continue to work hard in their classrooms while building friendships and strong school connections. Thank you to our families for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education. We appreciate all you do to help make Northside a wonderful place for students to learn and grow.

Warmly,
Mrs. Keri Murphy
Elementary Principal
St. James Public Schools