Quarterly Round-Up
January 11th, 2024
By Nels Onstad, Superintendent
Construction: What’s Next at Wabasha-Kellogg?
As we look ahead to the coming year, we are excited to share the next phase of our facilities improvements at Wabasha-Kellogg Public Schools. Our commitment to providing safe, modern, and engaging learning environments for students continues with remodeling projects in both the Elementary and CTE wings, as well as some needed updates in our kitchen.
At the elementary level, families will notice a significant remodel of the elementary office area, including an improved secure entrance. Student safety remains a top priority, and this updated space will enhance our ability to welcome visitors while maintaining a safe and orderly school environment. Classrooms throughout the elementary wing will receive new ceiling tile, flooring, and updated furniture to create refreshed, student-centered learning spaces. In addition, we will be increasing the number of bathrooms to better meet the needs of students and staff.
In the CTE wing, we will be redesigning our two current classrooms into newly designed, flexible classrooms. These updated spaces will support a variety of uses, with a strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) learning. The goal is to provide adaptable environments that encourage innovation, collaboration, and hands-on experiences for students at multiple grade levels.
As with all construction projects, we continue to navigate budget constraints, unforeseen circumstances, and tight timelines. While challenges are part of the process, we remain incredibly grateful for the community’s support and for the opportunity to enhance the spaces where our Wabasha-Kellogg students learn and grow each day.
Spring: The Season of Reflection and Intentional Growth
Spring is one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year for our students and staff. Concerts, competitions, testing, field experiences, and end-of-year celebrations fill our calendars. It is also an important time for reflection.
About a year ago, a group of community members, staff, and students came together to develop our district’s strategic plan. This plan outlines key priorities for the district, including:
Strengthening academic achievement
Recruiting and retaining high-quality staff
Maintaining fiscal responsibility
Strengthening community engagement
Creating and sustaining a positive learning environment
We are proud of the progress we continue to make in each of these areas. Evidence of that progress includes:
Ongoing professional development centered around student data and instructional improvement
Low staff turnover from year to year, reflecting a stable and dedicated team
And increased fund balance and thoughtful “right-sizing” of the district budget
A strong and intentional emphasis on culture and climate throughout our schools
Our work is never finished, but we are moving in the right direction. Thank you for your partnership, support, and trust. Together, we will continue to build strong schools and bright futures for every Wabasha-Kellogg student.
By Chad Pederson, Secondary Principal
The remodeling and updating of the high school has created a learning environment that more effectively supports student achievement and high-quality instruction. The redesigned classrooms provide flexible learning spaces that allow teachers to implement engaging instructional practices, foster collaboration and creativity, and deliver the support services necessary to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
These improvements ensure that we can maintain a positive, productive, and student-centered learning environment. The commitment and support of the Wabasha-Kellogg community have made it possible to create a school where students and staff feel welcomed, valued, and inspired each day.
As we move into the second semester, our school continues to provide a wide range of opportunities and experiences designed to enrich student learning and help students acquire the skills necessary for a lifetime of success. Students have started new courses and soon will be participating in statewide assessments that reflect their growth and mastery of essential academic skills, as well as engaging in extracurricular activities and performing arts programs. Our seniors are finalizing post-secondary plans as they prepare for college, career training programs, and entry into the workforce.
The entire staff is grateful for the continued support the Wabasha-Kellogg community provides to our school. I encourage you to attend one of our school events, celebrate our students’ accomplishments, and take pride in the school you helped create.
By Dan Murtha, Elementary Principal
Building a Foundation for Purpose: A Systems-First Look at W-K Elementary
As we launch our first quarterly district newsletter, I want to take a moment to look beyond the daily schedule and share the “why” behind how we operate at Wabasha-Kellogg Elementary. Our mission is to equip students to perform at their highest level and to lead lives of character, kindness, and purpose by engaging them in challenging and relevant experiences. Achieving this requires more than great teaching. It requires intentional systems and structures designed to support every learner, every day.
The Engine of Our School: MTSS and Data-Driven Decisions
One of the most foundational systems in our building is our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, MTSS allows us to be proactive by using student data to identify where a student excels and where they may need additional support.
We are continuing to strengthen this process by expanding the role of our collaborative MTSS team. This team includes administrators, general education teachers, special education staff, and interventionists who work together to coordinate support across all tiers and ensure instructional decisions are made with input from multiple professional perspectives.
A Modern Approach to Literacy
Our instructional focus is rooted in the Science of Reading. Staff recently completed professional development through the CORE Online Language and Literacy Academy, which has refined how we teach phonemic awareness, phonics, and fluency. This work supports consistent, evidence-based literacy practices across all grade levels using our Wonders reading curriculum as we continue working toward the goal of having every child reading at or above grade level.
Supporting the Whole Child
Excellence at W-K is not defined by academics alone. It includes the social, emotional, and physical development of our students. Our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) system provides a framework for clear, consistent expectations across the building. In addition, our student support team works proactively to provide social-emotional and mental health support to ensure all students have what they need to be successful.
Looking Forward: Phase 2 Construction Update
As we continue planning for our Summer 2026 construction work, this phase will focus on facility improvements that modernize our learning environment and enhance safety. Key areas designated for improvement include an updated and secure main office entry, classroom updates such as new flooring and wall coverings, and the addition of new bathrooms near the P-1 hallway to better serve our youngest learners. This work will not impact schedules or educational programming for the remainder of the current school year.
In the coming weeks, elementary staff will begin preparing for this work by organizing materials and spaces in advance of the project timeline. Because we will not have access to the elementary building during the construction window this summer, plans are being finalized for alternate locations for our summer programming, including Targeted Services and ESY. During this time, elementary office staff and administration will be temporarily relocated to the high school and/or district office so families are still able to connect with us as needed. More information will be shared as details are finalized.
At W-K Elementary, we believe excellence is a process of always striving for better. By building strong systems and safe environments today, we are preparing our students to live with purpose tomorrow.
By Anne Wasmund, Falcon View Online Principal
Spring energy is in the air, and the second semester is off to a fantastic start at Falcon View Online! We are proud to serve 341 students across Minnesota — including 49 elementary learners, 51 middle school students, and 241 high school students. Of our high school group, 52 students are enrolled part-time, 11 are taking advantage of Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO), and 33 are gaining real-world experience through our Work-Based Learning program. Our Falcons are truly soaring in many directions!
We have even more to celebrate from the first semester. A huge congratulations to our 57 “A” Honor Roll students and 55 “B” Honor Roll students for their dedication and perseverance. We’re also delighted to welcome four new members into the National Honor Society at our induction ceremony on February 25th — an accomplishment that reflects both scholarship and leadership.
In March and April, our team will be hitting the road to connect with students across the state for MCA and Alternate MCA testing. Over the next seven weeks, we’ll visit 17 locations throughout Minnesota.
I recently had the opportunity to share the Falcon View Online story with members of the Wabasha Rotary Club, and I always enjoy connecting with community members about the innovative learning happening here. If you’d like to learn more about our program, I would be happy to visit with you.
Here’s to a productive, positive, and energizing spring season — let’s keep soaring!
(Pictured Below - Falcon View Online Staff)
By Leanne Kruger, MS, LSW
Supporting students’ social, emotional, and mental well-being is an important part of the school day. The school social worker meets with students individually and in small groups to support skills such as emotional regulation, coping with stress, problem-solving, and building healthy relationships.
We are also excited to partner with You’re Not Alone to bring a therapy dog to our school. Izy, our certified therapy dog, visits weekly and works with students in a calm, supportive environment. Visits with Izy help students practice calming strategies, build emotional awareness, and feel supported while at school.
Family Tips for Supporting Calm at Home:
• Encourage your child to pause and take 3 slow breaths when feeling overwhelmed
• Help children name their feelings (“I feel frustrated,” “I feel nervous”)
• Keep routines as consistent as possible—predictability supports emotional regulation
Parenting & Family Support:
• Wabasha County Public Health – Early childhood programs and parenting resources
• Parents Anonymous - National Parent & Youth Helpline - Evidence-based emotional support by compassionate and trained Helpline counselors for diverse parents and youth. Can address parenting, mental health, and related family issues. Available 24-7 for calls, texts, and chats:
1-855-427-2736 | https://nationalparentyouthhelpline.org
If you have questions, concerns, or would like to connect about your child’s social-emotional needs, please feel free to reach out at lkruger@wkfalcons.org or 651-565-3559 ext. 6201.
By Donny Killeen, Activities Director
There is so much to be proud of at Wabasha-Kellogg! Our athletics and activities programs have been especially busy this winter season.
We are extremely proud of our ExCEL Award winner, Jeanette Larson. She was one of just 34 students selected statewide in recognition of her leadership, achievements, and contributions to our school and community. Jeanette will be honored on March 14 at Williams Arena during halftime of the Class AAA Girls State Championship game at 2 p.m. The ceremony will also be televised.
Throughout the season, we have seen tremendous growth across our programs. While the girls basketball team has not always come out on the winning side, they continue to compete hard and keep games close against tough opponents. Our wrestling team has seen strong individual performances, with several athletes placing in tournaments, though we have not had a full lineup for team events.
One Act Play earned second place at Subsections and advanced to Sections. Their performance of Poor Bridget was a powerful and moving production. The math team has competed in several events this season and continues to improve with each competition. After sending two seniors to state last year, our speech team returns a strong core of leaders and has welcomed three new members.
Boys basketball has already surpassed last year’s win total and currently sits in the top half of the Section 1A standings. For skiing, W-K co-ops with Rochester John Marshall each season. This year we had four athletes skiing and competing throughout the winter season.
Finally, the dance team is having another outstanding season. They swept the TRC Championship, winning Jazz, High Kick, and the overall title. They have also qualified for the State Dance Tournament in both Jazz and High Kick. Our High Kick team claimed the Section 1A championship, and Jazz earned a second-place finish. At the state tournament Jazz placed 8th and High Kick made it to the finals and placed 6th.
It has been an exciting and successful winter season for Wabasha-Kellogg, and we look forward to what’s ahead! Don’t forget to sign up and register for spring sports in the high school office.
Go Falcons!
Klas-Kronebusch Home Meet
3RC Championship Varsity Meet
Weight Room Open: Build yourself ABOVE THE LINE
By Tim Klingbeil , 7-12 Health/PE Teacher
Join us Monday through Friday, 3–4 p.m. Whether you’re a football player, an athlete from another sport, or just looking to get stronger and more confident, this is a great chance to improve strength, speed, and overall fitness in a positive, team-focused environment. We offer letter-winning opportunities and support for all sports!
Lifting after school builds discipline, consistency, and mental toughness—skills that carry over into sports, school, and life. No experience is needed—just come ready to work, grow, and get better every day!
American Indian Education Program
By Jess Rasmussen, American Indian Education Coordinator
AIPAC
All students, family members, district employees, and community members who identify as American Indian are invited to participate in our American Indian Parent Advisory Committee as active voting members. With quarterly meetings and ongoing conversations, we strive to create equitable opportunities for our students where all can thrive and find success during their time as a Falcon and beyond. Any other member of our district community is welcome to sit in on the conversation to listen and grow with us.
Learn More
You can learn more about our services by clicking on the “Academics” tab on our district website. There, you’ll find the “American Indian Education Program” where you can learn about our mission, understand our vision, and find resources that promote our collaboration. Learning is one of the greatest places to begin, and we welcome all who want to take that first step. If you have questions about our program or believe your student should be benefiting from these services, please contact Jess Rasmussen at jrasmussen@wkfalcons.org.
“We do know that no one gets wise enough to really understand the heart of another, though it is the task of our life to try.” - Louise Erdrich
By Daria Dalager, K-6 STEM Teacher
After beginning the school year with programming and coding using Ozobots in Wabasha-Kellogg Elementary’s new STEM program, lessons during the months of January and February have focused on structural elements and how things are built to last.
From kindergarten through sixth grade, students have been learning about the main components of structures, including foundations, I-beams, H-beams, trusses, and arches. Kindergarten through third-grade students have centered their learning on bridges and the strength of triangles, discovering why this shape is such a powerful building tool. To demonstrate their understanding, students have created structures using a wide variety of materials, including toothpicks, craft sticks, pom poms, Play-Doh, marshmallows, Magna-Tiles, and hashtag blocks.
Older students also began their learning with bridges before moving on to iconic structures like the Eiffel Tower. They showcased their knowledge by designing and constructing towers using paper tubes, applying concepts of stability, balance, and load-bearing design.
The learning continues as students are now exploring natural and synthetic fibers and fabrics, along with the technology behind smart textiles. This next unit connects engineering, materials science, and real-world applications, continuing to build curiosity and problem-solving skills across all grade levels in the STEM program.
The Wabasha-Kellogg Public Schools CTE Department is proud to announce that they has been awarded a $10,000 FutureForward™ Impact Grant through the Minnesota Service Cooperative CTE Pathway Growth Initiative. Heimermann’s proposal earned first place following a competitive pitch presentation alongside four other schools.
FutureForward™ Impact Grants are designed to expand robust Career and Technical Education (CTE) experiences for students in grades 5–12, with a focus on increasing the number of students equipped with the career and college readiness skills needed by today’s employers.
Heimermann delivered a five-minute pitch presentation to approximately 88 attendees, outlining a plan to establish a School-Based Enterprise (SBE) — a student-run business operating within the school. The initiative will provide students with hands-on, real-world business experience while building strong partnerships with local community and industry leaders.
The proposed School-Based Enterprise will:
- Strengthen community and industry partnerships
- Create meaningful post-graduation pathways for students
- Provide resume-ready, real-world experiences
- Generate sustainable revenue to expand student opportunities and programming
“Students don’t just learn business — they run one,” Heimermann emphasized during the presentation. The $10,000 grant will be used to purchase equipment and startup materials necessary to launch the program.
This accomplishment reflects the collaborative efforts of the entire W-K CTE & Business Department and demonstrates the district’s commitment to preparing students for success in college, career, and beyond.
By Laura Metcalf, Preschool Teacher
In our classroom, we believe young children learn best when their bodies and brains are working together. Through purposeful movement, our students build early academic skills, social confidence, and strong motor development — all while having fun.
One of our favorite tools this year has been balance bikes. As children ride, they are developing coordination, core strength, spatial awareness, and confidence. They practice taking turns, following directions, and navigating space safely. Riding also supports focus and self-regulation, helping children return to table activities ready to learn.
Inside the classroom, our giant building blocks spark imagination and teamwork. Students design castles, obstacle courses, houses, and even “cities.” Through block play, they explore early math concepts like size, balance, patterns, and problem-solving. They practice communication skills as they plan, negotiate roles, and work together to bring their ideas to life.
This hybrid model blends structured learning with hands-on exploration, allowing children to engage academically while honoring the way preschoolers are naturally wired to learn — through movement, creativity, and play.
We are so proud of the confidence, independence, and imagination growing in this class each day!
Falcon Nest Summer Planning Is Underway!
Falcon Nest summer planning has officially begun! While it may only be early March, it’s never too early to start thinking ahead about your summer childcare needs.
Important Dates to Know:
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Last day of Falcon Nest (school-year program): June 3
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First day of Falcon Nest Summer Program: June 15
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Summer registration & handbook available: Mid-March
Our Falcon Nest staff is already looking forward to a summer full of fun, learning, and adventure. We can’t wait to share more details with you soon!
