Dear Families,
As you know, the district will hold a bond referendum election on November 5, coinciding with the general election, to reimagine Northfield High School. This bond referendum represents an important decision for our community. The district aims to ensure that voters are well-informed about the purpose and impact of this referendum.
The referendum aims to improve the high school facility in numerous ways. As a summary, the referendum has three questions:
Question 1: Proposes $95.38 million for a new multi-story classroom addition, retains and renovates about 60% of the existing building, some demolition, and new HVAC systems at the high school. It addresses outdated classrooms, limited natural light, energy efficiency, building climate control inadequacies, and security issues due to the building's layout.
Question 2: Adds a $18.725 million expanded gymnasium to address space shortages for athletics and community activities.
Question 3: Allocates $6.975 million to upgrade the HVAC system installed as part of Question 1 to use geothermal technology, saving utility costs and prioritizing environmental sustainability.
The district has conducted over 90 educational events to ensure an informed electorate. Visit https://northfieldschools.org/reimagine to learn more.
One more tour of the NHS facility is on Saturday, Nov. 2, beginning at 10 am. Please enter at Door No. 10 and meet in the media center.
I also want to remind you about Carleton College’s historic pledge of $2 million toward the academic facility improvements that are part of Questtion 1. If the first question passes, Carleton’s pledge becomes a gift and the district will bond for $2 million less to fund the projects.
Finally, make sure you have a plan to vote! You can learn your polling location at the Minnesota Secretary of State's website.
Please direct any questions about the referendum to Superintendent Hillmann. Be an informed voter!
Sincerely,
Shane Baier
NHS Principal
How do I report a student absence?
If there is a need to be absent, please call 507-663-0616 or use the NHS Student Absence Form. The link for attendance reporting is also be linked on the NHS website. If your student is ill, please provide symptoms within your message. This is a 24-hour voicemail system. Thank you!
All 10th graders will take the PreACT at school.
The PreACT assesses student readiness for the ACT exam (college entrance exam)
It includes 4 sections: English, Math, Reading & Science
10th grade students will need a FULLY CHARGED iPad on the day of the PreACT.
Click HERE to view testing locations and teacher room location changes for grades 9, 11th & 12th grade for periods 1-3 on Tuesday, Oct. 29th.
Dear NHS Students, Families and Staff:
The fall activities season is closing down with just a few activities finishing up post season play. Our Northfield Raiders have work hard, experiences some setbacks and accomplished both individual and team goals along the way.
Choir program has kickoff the fall concert season with orchestra, band and the NHS Theatre program ready to follow suit. The transition to winter activities aligns with the end of first quarter. Students will finish first quarter next Thursday, October 31st with a teacher prep day (no school) scheduled for Friday, November 1 and Monday, November 4th. The half way point in the semester will be a great time to evaluate, reflect and adjust.
As we look ahead to October 31st, sometimes students ask, can I dress up for Halloween? Yes, however, please avoid the following:
- Weapons/ look alike weapons
- Masks/ face fully covered (not identifiable)
- Costumes that would be considered discriminatory in nature
- Clothing that presents a safety hazards (tripping/ sharp)
- Exposed undergarments or clothing considered lewd
- Tobacco/drug/ alcohol references
Parent Teacher Conferences were held this past Monday. We had 180 parents attended P-T conferences. While we were hopeful to see more parents, those that attended were able see teachers for face to face conference. We did not have many participate in the parent information sessions, but our admin/counseling team created a condensed version of each topic for your convenience. See videos below:
Sincerely,
Shane Baier
NHS Principal
Dear NHS Parent/Caregivers and Students:
As the election day approaches, this is a reminder to engage in the election season in a way that supports NHS school community and the greater Northfield area community. We all have the right to express our views on political and social issues, a right that is protected by the principle of free speech. However, with that right comes the responsibility to communicate our ideas thoughtfully, respectfully and considerately.
Northfield High School is a place where diverse opinions are valued, and it is important that all of us feel safe and respected, regardless of our beliefs. While this election season may bring strong emotions and differing opinions, it is essential that we engage in discussions and debates in a manner that is thoughtful and respectful of others.
I encourage each of you to show up as a leader and use this time as an opportunity to learn, to listen, and to express your viewpoints constructively. Whether in the classroom, on social media, or during school activities, let’s remember to model the qualities of respect, kindness and understanding. I challenge each of us to practice the habits of an outstanding leader:
Leader of Self
Be proactive
Begin with the end in mind
Put first things first
Take care of myself
Leader of Service to Others
Work together
Be Open Minded
Encourage others
Honor community by recognizing that you are part of something bigger than yourself
The Student Citizenship Handbook will serve as our guide should we need to address destructive, disrespectful and/or disruptive behavior. Thank you for your continued commitment to making our school a positive and inclusive place for everyone to learn and grow..
Sincerely,
Shane Baier
Principal
Northfield High School
If you are in-between fall and winter sports, you can sign up for 'Strength Training High School" to continue lifting on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday's between 3:00-4:30! Once your winter team coach schedules their days/times, you will then be able to go with your team. Until then though, sign up to keep up with your strength and conditioning with Erik from ETS! Sign up HERE.
If you are 'out of season' or at all interested in learning more about this opportunity, you can also sign up to learn more or ask questions to get you going - it's free! Let's get this group up to at least 50 students this winter (if not more!). Sign up HERE.
Go Raiders!
John Mahal
Activities Director
Northfield High School
1400 Division Street
Northfield, MN 55057
Office: 507-663-0632
