Cold Spring Elementary Update

It’s often the smallest gestures that leave the greatest mark. A passing smile in the hallway, a cheerful “good morning,” or a brief conversation between activities may seem ordinary, but to a child, they can mean everything. These simple interactions build trust, create a sense of belonging, and remind our students they are valued and cared for. Over time, those little moments add up to a powerful message: you matter here.

This same spirit was reflected in this week’s bus safety presentation, a shining example of students and staff working together to set our school year up for success. With two buses on site, every student had the opportunity to learn and practice the Spartan Way expectations for riding safely and respectfully. Dean of Students Jake Zauhar led engaging conversations with all grade levels, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and respect on the bus. Students also participated in a hands-on evacuation drill, ensuring they are prepared should an emergency ever arise. Classrooms carried this work forward by reviewing the Spartan Way expectations together, so that every child has a clear understanding of how to make each bus ride safe, respectful, and responsible.

Thank you to the families who have been able to complete the supply fee process — your support helps ensure classrooms are stocked with the materials and projects our students need each day. These funds cover the daily supplies children use and support the engaging projects our teachers create to make learning special. For families who haven’t yet had a chance, the fee can be submitted through RevTrak. If financial hardship makes this difficult, please reach out to Brittany Bueckers (K-2) or Kathy van der Hagen (3-5) so we can offer support.

As we close out these first couple of weeks, I want to express my gratitude for the partnership of our families and the dedication of our staff. Cold Spring Elementary continues to be a warm, caring, and supportive community — a place where students grow, families connect, and staff feel proud to teach and learn together.

Your Principal,

Jim Mitteness

As part of our new curriculum, 2nd grade participated on a Nature Walk this week! We've also been working on implementing our new UFLI (phonics) curriculum in grades K-2 and Arts and Letters in grades 3-5!

SPARTAN SPOT: If your end of day changes include Spartan Spot (either attending as a drop in or not attending on a scheduled day), be sure to contact Spartan Spot to communicate changes. You can reach Spartan Spot at 320-685-4959 or via their Remind app.

Hours: Our school office is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Teachers are available until 3:30 p.m., and we encourage families to reach out during that time frame if they need to connect.

We are excited to launch the Color Run Fundraiser this week! The money we raise will go directly back to our CSE community by funding parts of field trips, new recess equipment, teacher requests, and special student events.

All the information, donation and registration forms were sent home on Tuesday, so this weekend is the perfect time to start fundraising. Let's make this our best fundraiser yet!

Each week, families will receive an email from the principal with important reminders, upcoming events, and highlights from around the school. Classroom communication may look a little different depending on your child’s teacher; each teacher will share the method that works best for their classroom community, whether that’s email, a classroom app, or a weekly newsletter. You’ll receive those details directly from your child’s teacher at the start of the year. Please note that during the school day, our teachers’ first priority is working directly with students. They may not be able to reply to messages or emails right away, but families can expect responses during teachers’ prep times or before and after school hours. If something requires immediate attention, please contact the office and we will ensure the message reaches the teacher.

In the event of a late start, early release, or school cancelation, notifications will come directly from the district through the email or text preferences you selected during registration. If you’re ever unsure where to find the latest information, our office is always happy to help.

As we prepare for each upcoming school year, the ROCORI District Office works to update your student’s record for bus routing purposes. Please read the information below and follow the directions. Your assistance is vital in getting correct student data to the bus contractors for routing purposes. We no longer utilize the transportation form via our website.

Each year, we ask that you submit your information to us through the MyRide K-12 App.

• It is very helpful for efficiency purposes if we know your student(s) is not planning to use the transportation system. If you do not have a computer available, please call the district office at 685-4901 for assistance.

• You may decline transportation now and if your situation changes at any time during the school year, you may sign up for transportation during the year.

• Route changes usually take 3-5 business days before taking effect.

Complete the word find and submit to the school office to be entered for a prize!

9/22 - Picture Day (details to follow)

9/24 - 1 Hour Late Start

9/29 - Vision Screening (K, 1st, 3rd)

9/30 - Vision Screening (2nd, 4th, 5th)

10/02 - National Custodian Recognition Day

10/08 - 1 Hour Late Start

10/10 - CSE PTO Color Run (4:30-6:30)

10/16 - 10/17 - No School

10/22 - 1 Hour Late Start

10/27 - Picture Retakes

Andrea Kuechle: kuechlea@rocori.k12.mn.us - 320-685-4951

Ali Anderson: andersona@rocori.k12.mn.us - 320-685-4952 (also the Attendance line-- please call for absences)

Jim Mitteness, Principal

601 Red River Ave N

Cold Spring, MN 56320

320-685-4185

mittenessj@rocori.k12.mn.us

Email: mittenessj@rocori.k12.mn.us
Website: https://www.rocori.k12.mn.us/cold-spring-elementary-home
Location: 601 Red River Ave N, Cold Spring, MN, USA
Phone: 320-685-4185