Falls Elementary

Despite the cold, sixth-grade students participated in a hands-on learning experience led by James Aasen and Jolene Simon from the Koochiching Soil and Water Conservation District, along with Ben West from the Department of Natural Resources~ Forestry Division. Together, they guided students in understanding the importance of collecting tree cones for tree nurseries and the future of our forests, as well as what to look for when gathering them. Forests are an integral part of our Northern Minnesota way of life, supporting wildlife, recreation and the local economy. This opportunity was made possible through a grant from Koochiching SWCD.

As we get ready to go into wrapping up the school year, it's essential to reflect on our achievements and gear up for the final stretch. There’s only 10 weeks to go!

Finishing strong not only means maintaining our commitment to attendance but also fostering a positive mindset as we prepare for state assessments and the exciting new school year ahead. Here’s how to make the most of these last few months:

1. Prioritize Attendance: Every minute in the classroom counts! Regular attendance boosts a child’s understanding and retention of the school material. Make it a goal to be present every day.

2.Engage Actively: Participate in class discussions, ask questions, and connect with peers. This active engagement enhances learning experiences and prepares students for state assessments.

3. Preparing for State Assessments: Create a study schedule at home that breaks down the material into manageable sections. Focus on areas where you feel less confident or need extra help.

4. Utilize Resources: Take advantage of study guides, online resources, teacher communication and tutoring sessions. Don’t hesitate to ask teachers for extra help or clarification.

5. Set Goals for the end of the school year with your family: Reflect on Achievements! What has been learned so far this year, and where have you grown? Take pride in your accomplishments, big and small as a school family! What goal do you want to set for the end of the school year?

6. Stay Connected: As the school year ends, maintain relationships with friends, principals and teachers. Networking can provide support and encouragement as you transition to the next grade and enhance the home/school connections!

7. Make Every Minute Count: Use time wisely. Whether it's in class or while studying at home, staying organized can maximize your productivity.

8. Stay Positive: Keep a positive attitude as you approach the end of the year. Celebrate your hard work and resilience…Commit to the Bronco Way!

By prioritizing these strategies, you can finish the school year strong and step confidently into the future. Let’s make these last few months count for us and our Broncos!

#BroncoPride #StrongTraditions #FutureForward #SchoolAttendanceMatters

Students are working toward the goal of keeping our hallways neat and tidy. This collaborative effort involves students of various ages working together to take pride in their shared spaces. To make it even more engaging, the initiative includes a friendly competition with weekly winners announced. The wing with the neatest overall hallway will earn a popcorn party!

Here are a few simple ways parents can support this goal at home:

• Encourage your child to clean up after themselves (toys, clothes, school materials)

• Build routines for organizing backpacks and lunch items each day

• Talk about taking pride in shared spaces at home (kitchen, living room, etc.)

• Reinforce responsibility by giving small chores related to tidiness

• Praise effort when your child shows neatness and organization

• Model good habits by keeping home spaces clean and organized

These small habits at home can help students carry those same skills into school!

Students can also earn magnetic stars for their lockers by demonstrating exceptional neatness and organization. Below, Hank and Coreline proudly show their discovery of a gold star in their lockers-Great Job!

These two used Bronco Pride tickets to arrange lunch with Jeffrey and Jerry. Fun Fact: Some turtles can live a very long time—many species regularly reach 50–100 years, and some sea turtles are believed to live over 150 years! How old do you think Jeffrey and Jerry are?

Exciting news for our little community—Jeffrey and Jerry will soon have a new neighbor named Bobett, a poisonous dart frog! Mr. Saari has been preparing the habit for some time.

Don’t worry—while poisonous dart frogs are known for their bright colors and toxic reputation in the wild, Bobett will be completely safe. That’s because poison dart frogs only become poisonous when they eat specific insects in their natural habitat. These insects contain tiny toxins that the frogs store in their skin for protection.

In captivity, however, their diet is carefully controlled and does not include these toxic insects. As a result, frogs like Bobett do not develop any poison at all.

Bobett will be a fascinating and harmless addition, bringing a little splash of the rainforest right into the neighborhood! 🐸🌿

Students in grades 3–6 will soon take the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA), Minnesota’s statewide test in reading, math, and science (science in grade 5). These assessments help teachers and schools see how students are progressing with Minnesota academic standards and are very important in helping to guide instruction and programming. While the MCA is just one measure of learning, it gives valuable information about student growth and school programs.

Students should remember that the MCA is an opportunity to show what they know, and the most important thing is to take their time and do their best. We are proud of all the hard work our students do every day!

Helping Your Child Prepare for Testing Week

Testing week is approaching, and families can play an important role in helping students feel confident and ready. A few simple steps at home can make a big difference:

• Prioritize rest: Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep each evening (8–10 hours is ideal).

• Start the day right: A healthy breakfast helps with focus and energy. Breakfast is available at school at no cost.

• Be on time: Arriving at school on time helps students feel calm and prepared.

• Encourage a positive mindset: Remind your child to do their best and stay confident.

• Limit stress: Keep routines consistent and avoid overscheduling during the week.

• Stay organized: Help your child remember any needed materials or a charged device if applicable.

We appreciate your partnership in supporting your child during testing weeks!

It has been another busy and exciting week at Falls Elementary! Across classrooms, students have been engaged in hands-on learning, meaningful discussions, and activities that spark curiosity and growth.

From reading and math to science investigations and creative projects, our amazing teachers have been working hard to make learning fun, challenging, and meaningful for every student. Their dedication, energy, and care continue to make a difference each and every day.

Thank you to our incredible staff for all you do to support students and help them shine! 🌟

Enjoy this PEEK of the WEEK!

You can register a few different ways:

1. Fill out the forms in person at the FES office.

2. NEW! Click the link from our homepage titled "KG Registration" to complete your registration in Infinite Campus. Go to isd361.org for the LINK.

Finley Briggs and Ruby Gedde were at the radio station promoting the bike rodeo—great job, you two! Hope to see everyone there! FREE BIKE HELMETS will be given away to all! You could win a BIKE!

Please talk to a trusted adult if you or a friend are struggling with conflict, bullying. We have attached some resources below as a guide. When we bring a community together, conflicts inevitably arise. If the conflict persists into bullying or harassment it is imperative that students and adults work together to make it stop. At Falls Elementary we take this seriously and will thoughtfully and carefully investigate each incidence, help resolve conflict, and address bullying. We use Restorative Practices to mend and heal relationships where possible. Everyone deserves to feel safe at school!

Part of being a family is being there for each other! Let us know how we can help!