PEN: Public Education Northeast

Area A Parent Meeting Jan. 30, 2012, 6 - 7:30 pm @ Farview Park, 621 29th Ave N

2012-01-25T12:16:00.000-08:00

Agenda

6pm –

Welcome: Todd Bennington / Troy Parker

Co-Chairs

Introductions:

Name, child’s school, what brought you here tonight?

6:15 - Call to Order

Presentations:

Introduction of New District Staff -

Michael Thomas, Associate Superintendent Area A

Office of New Schools Update – Sara Paul, Director

Community Standards Initiative (CSI) – Lori Wilson

Title 1 Discussion – Troy Parker, Title 1 Advisory Committee

Heather Lindstrom, Director, Family & Community Partnership and Engagement

There will be a short survey for parents to share their feelings about the Calendar for the next school year.

7:30 Meeting Adjourned

Light refreshments will be served

Translators and Childcare provided

Northeast Middle School Winter Warm Up Benefit, Jan. 20, 7 pm @ Grace Center

2012-01-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

See "Smokey Joe's Cafe" @ Edison, Dec. 14-16, 7:00 pm

2011-12-03T04:42:00.000-08:00

Soup with the Supe @ Northeast MIddle School - Dec. 8, 6:00 pm

2011-11-30T13:21:00.001-08:00

Area A Parent Meeting Nov. 28, 6 pm @ Edison

2011-11-21T13:18:00.000-08:00

Area A Parent Meeting

Monday, Nov. 28, 2011 6-7:30pm

Edison High School

700 22nd Avenue NE

AGENDA

Introductions – Co-Chairs: Todd Bennington, Troy Parker
Your name, school(s) and what brought you to the meeting tonight.

DISCUSSION TOPICS -

Pierre Bottineau French Immersion

Soup with the Supe/Northeast - Amanda Muenzner

School/Family/Community Partnerships – Scott Redd

Food and childcare provided at Area meetings – No children under 3 years of age.

========================================
Area Parent Advisory Councils
Area Parent Advisory Council meetings provide parents an opportunity to meet with the district's associate superintendents who represent each area, parents from other neighborhood schools, and community leaders to:

*Provide input concerning school-related issues.
*Make recommendations in support of enhancing learning opportunities and environments.
*Advocate for issues vital to the success of schools, youth, and families in their community.

Each Area Parent Advisory Council selects six people to represent them on the District Parent Advisory Council and six alternates.

Co-chairs: Todd Bennington (tizzod@gmail.com) & Troy Parker (MncFree@gmail.com)
Mark Bonine, Associate Superintendent (Mark.Bonine@mpls.k12.mn.us)
Michael Thomas, Associate Superintendent (Michael.Thomas@mpls.k12.mn.us)
Lynne Crockett, Community Liaison – North - 612-280-6024 (LynneCrockett01@gmail.com)
Amanda Muenzner, Community Liaison - NorthEast- 612-743-4810 (mn_muenzner@pcpeople.com)

Congratulations Edison Football Coach Mike Minnema: Minneapolis Conference Coach of the Year!

2011-11-17T09:03:00.000-08:00

Coach Minnema

6th Annual NE School Showcase - Sat. Nov. 12 - 11:00am @ Edison Community Gym

2011-10-31T06:19:00.000-07:00

Come to the 6th Annual

Northeast School

Showcase!

Saturday, November 12, 2011

11:00 am - 2:00 pm

At Thomas Edison High School Community Gym

700 22nd Avenue Northeast - Minneapolis

(3 Blocks W of Central, 2 Blocks S of Lowry)

Live Northeast. Educate Northeast.

ENROLL In & Embrace Our Minneapolis Public Schools

Pop in for a one-stop look at how you can map out an

awesome PreK-12 journey in your local schools!

Pillsbury (PK-5) - Waite Park (PK-5) - Northeast Middle (6-8)

Sheridan (PK-8) - Marcy (K-8) - Edison High (9-12)

Emerson (PK-5 Spanish Immersion)

FREE Activities for Parents & Children

Print a flyer and pass it on!

Northeast Middle School Football Team City Champions!

2011-10-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Northeast Middle School Nighthawks!

The Nighthawks stopped the undefated Sanford Hawks to nab the Middle School City Championship with a score of 6-0 in overtime on Thursday, Oct. 27. Go Nighthawks!

Traveling Basketball Comes to Northeast! Tryouts Sat. Oct. 27 @ Bottineau

2011-10-19T05:51:00.000-07:00

MEA Basketball Camp for kids ages 5-14

2011-10-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

Edison High School Goes Solar

2011-10-13T05:43:00.000-07:00

Minneapolis/St. Paul – CBS EcoMedia Inc. (“EcoMedia”) and Boston Scientific unveiled today a solar project on the gymnasium rooftop at Thomas Edison High School. The solar photovoltaic system is designed as an educational tool for students, teachers, and administrators and is the first environmental project to be funded as a result of Boston Scientific’s participation in EcoMedia’s ‘EcoAd’ program, which was launched in January. As a launch partner Boston Scientific purchased advertising on local CBS stations featuring the EcoAd leaf, meaning the Boston Scientific ads would be tied to tangible improvements to communities and the environment.

On hand for the unveiling were Bernadeia Johnson, Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, Carla Steinbach, Principal of Thomas Edison High School, Susan Thompson, Chief Legal Counsel – Cardiac, Rhythm and Vascular, Boston Scientific, Brien Kennedy, WCCO-TV Vice President and General Manager and Paul Polizzotto, President & Founder, EcoMedia.

The rooftop solar photovoltaic system has been installed on the roof of the gymnasium and is being coordinated as part of a major energy efficiency retrofit in the Minneapolis Public Schools. It is designed to give students a hands-on learning tool to understand the science of solar energy as part of the broader earth and climate science curricula. The solar impacts of the installation will reduce the cost of electrical consumption, reduce CO2 annually by an estimated 3,000 pounds, and result in annual cost savings.

“We are pleased that Boston Scientific and EcoMedia decided to invest in a solar project with Minneapolis Public Schools,” said Bernadeia Johnson, Superintendent of Schools. “This project is significant because it provides an opportunity for Thomas Edison to expand its science curriculum to include solar energy and supports one of our key values which is to be environmentally sustainable.”

The EcoAd program provides advertisers, such as Boston Scientific, with the option of purchasing "socially responsible media" that will deliver added value beyond traditional advertising. With the purchase of every EcoAd package, a portion of the dollars spent goes directly toward funding environmental and clean energy projects, all of which have been identified by local municipalities and public entities as being critical, yet under-funded. EcoAd advertising packages are available across CBS platforms, including network, local television, radio, outdoor and online.

“Boston Scientific is committed to bettering the communities in which we live and do business. Our support of the EcoMedia project at Thomas Edison High School is just one example of our ongoing effort to protect the environment,” said Susan Thompson, Chief Legal Counsel – Cardiac, Rhythm and Vascular, Boston Scientific. “This project also provides us an opportunity to further advance science and math education in the local school district, another area we support through our corporate citizenship platform.”

All EcoAds advertisements feature the EcoAd leaf which is a visible indicator that the brand is sponsoring important, local environmental projects such as solar installations, energy efficiency retrofits or the ‘greening” of schools, affordable housing and municipal buildings. “At EcoMedia, our mission is to create healthy communities nationwide; that can’t be done without including children and youth in our efforts,” said EcoMedia founder and president Paul Polizzotto. “Obviously, the next generation deserves a clean environment and green space in which to play and exercise. But in addition, children need to know the importance of environmental stewardship. Those values are learned at home, in the community, and at school and we are proud and gratified that the Boston Scientific solar project will help to bring those critical lessons to the students of Thomas Edison High School. We are grateful to Boston Scientific for the commitment they are making to their community as well as the investment towards improving the quality of life for generations to come.”

2011-10-10T13:03:00.000-07:00

Planning for Changing Enrollment in Northeast Minneapolis

Please attend a community meeting to learn more about enrollment changes in northeast Minneapolis and a proposed enrollment strategy for Sheridan Arts Magnet.

The enrollment proposal for fall 2012 is to make Sheridan a PreK-5 Arts Magnet School with Northeast Middle School as the 6-8 pathway. This program change will increase PreK-5 capacity to address the enrollment increase in the Pillsbury and Waite Park attendance areas.

When: Monday, October 17, 2011
Time: 6:30-8:00 pm
Where: Northeast Middle school
2955 Hayes Street NE, Minneapolis 55418

Childcare (children over 3 years) and
Spanish and Somali translation provided.

Background Enrollment Information available at: http://www.mpls.k12.mn.us/enrollment_planning.html

Students and Staff at Pillsbury Unveil Redesigned Library!

2011-09-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

Target and The Heart of America Foundation provided new books, furniture, eco-friendly design and more!

Staff and students from Pillsbury Community School, along with The Heart of America Foundation and Target volunteers, on September 28 celebrated the unveiling of an all-new school library. After the makeover, the library at Pillsbury Elementary features 2,000 new books, eco-friendly design elements, a complete technology upgrade, as well as new furniture, carpet and shelves.

To commemorate the special occasion, students and staff participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony. After the event, each student and his or her sibling(s) received seven books to take home! As part of the library makeover, Target also launched a Target Meals for Minds school-based food pantry, which allowed the families of Pillsbury Community School to choose from a variety of staple foods and fresh produce to take home.

Joining Target volunteers, students, and staff at the unveiling were MPS Superintendent Johnson, MPS Board Members Jenny Arneson and Rebecca Gagnon, City Councilman Kevin Reich, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Ryback, and State Representative Diane Loeffler.

Zone 1/Area A Parent Meeting: Monday Sept. 26, 6 - 7:30 pm @ Logan Park

2011-09-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

Zone 1 – Area A Parent Meeting

Monday, September 26, 2011 6 – 7:30pm

Logan Park - Broadway & Monroe St. N.E.

You are invited to join us to support academic growth for our students.

AGENDA

Introductions – Co-Chairs: Todd Bennington, Troy Parker

Your name, school(s) and what brought you to the meeting tonight.

Community Liaison: Lynne Crockett

Join us to meet the new Associate Superintendent, Michael Thomas

DISCUSSION TOPICS -

Enrollment Planning: Courtney Kiernat, MPS Consultant

Review the proposed recommendations that resulted from community meetings focusing on Sheridan and Jenny Lind-Olson

Go To cards: Meredith Fox, Special Assistant - Operations

Focus on the use of Metro Transit for high school students

Come share with us what your school is doing to allow parents to get involved in the school and connect with other parents.

Food and childcare provided

We're saving a seat for you !

Next meeting: Oct. 24, 2011 6 -7:30 - North Commons

Contact Information:

Michael Thomas, Associate Superintendent Michael.Thomas@mpls.k12.mn.us

Lynne Crockett, Community Liaison 612-242-7144 LynneCrockett@clear.net

Co-chairs, Todd Bennington,tizzod@gmail.com

Troy Parker, MNcFree@gmail.com

Enrollment Update - MPS Census Data available & Area A Meeting Scheduled

2011-09-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

Census Data

o The Enrollment Planning team presented 2010 US Census data to the Board August 23, 2011. The presentation can be viewed online at http://www.mpls.k12.mn.us/background_information.html

o Census data by school attendance area is available online http://mpls.k12.mn.us/background_information.html

·
Community Engagement

o Recurring themes from the community meetings held this summer are posted online http://mpls.k12.mn.us/recurring_themes.html .

o Spanish & Hmong language meetings were very successful. The Spanish language meeting had over 300 parents and community members in attendance.

o Once the proposed recommendations are complete, additional community meetings will be scheduled to review the proposed recommendations.

o Enrollment planning will be discussed at all three of the Area meetings in September. All are welcome to attend, child care and translation available. A calendar list is available online http://www.mpls.k12.mn.us/index.aspx

Area A/Zone 1- September 26, 6:00-8:00 pm at Logan Park

Edison Homecoming TONIGHT: 9/9/11 @ 5:00 pm vs. North High's Polars

2011-09-09T06:06:00.000-07:00

"Pound the Polars!"

Wear your blue/gold and cheer your Tommies on to victory at their homecoming game!

Friday, September 9 at 5:00 pm

Thomas Edison High School

700 22nd Ave NE

612.668.1300

Tickets go on sale at 4:30 pm

Adults $6

Kids $4 (free for Mpls parks football players wearing their jersey)

Under 7 are Free

This is an event for the whole family! Bring your friends and neighbors and join in the fun!

bouncy castle
face-painting
caricatures
clowns
Tommie gear will be available for purchase

NE All Community School BBQ Sponsors Thank You!

2011-09-06T12:36:00.000-07:00

Hello Dolly Auditions - Morris Park Players @ Edison - 9/7-8 Adults, Teens & Children Invited to Audition

2011-09-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

Morris Park Players Auditions for Hello, Dolly!

Sept. 6th & 7th from 6:30 to 9:30pm.

Callbacks, Sept. 8th 6:30 to 9:30pm.

Edison High School Auditorium 700 22nd Ave NE, Mpls

Considering adults, teens & children for all roles.

Everyone will be expected to sing and dance. Prepare as follows: Verse and a chorus of an up-tempo song (90 sec. long or less). Bring sheet music for accompaniment. Dress for movement. Prepare to read. Be pre-pared to list all scheduling conflicts for Sept. through Nov.

The first performance of Hello DOLLY is taking place on October 28th. To find out more information go to: Morris Park Players Community Theatre Website

5th Annual All NE Community School BBQ, Aug. 25, 3-8 pm @ Edison

2011-08-01T18:18:00.000-07:00

2nd "Big E" Ad Features NE Community/Edison Partnership in This Week's Northeaster

2011-07-26T09:35:00.000-07:00

NE Community BBQ Coordinates with NE MPS School Open Houses to Celebrate New School Year! Aug. 25, 3 - 8 pm @ Edison (1700 22nd Av NE)

2011-07-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

For the very first time in history all of our Northeast MPS schools (Marcy, Pillsbury, Sheridan, Waite Park, Northeast Middle School & Edison High School) will be “kicking off” the new school year together by inviting families to a Community BBQ held at Thomas Edison High School from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The BBQ attendance just keeps growing every year!

As always, the “Northeast Community Celebrity Grill-Meisters” will push the grill to the limits. We have learned there is heavy competition for the honor of preparing the cole-slaw this year. The inside scoop is that a citrus flavored coleslaw is the front runner. Wow! Other highlights to follow but for now just Mark Your Calendars! As always everyone is welcome! We know the Open Houses make for a busy day, especially for those that have to attend a couple of them. No dishes or preparing meals for you on Open House night. Join us when it’s convenient for you.

MPS encourages families to attend Student Placement Open House: Aug. 3

2011-07-21T17:45:00.000-07:00

MINNEAPOLIS – The Minneapolis Public Schools Office of Family and Community Engagement on Wednesday, August 3, will host an open house at Student Placement Services, located in the North Star School. Families can enroll children in school for 2011-2012, preview designs of the new MPS Educational Service Center and meet MPS partners and stakeholders.

WHAT: Student Placement Open House
WHEN: Wednesday, August 3, from noon – 6 p.m.
WHERE: MPS Student Placement Services
North Star School
2410 Girard Avenue N.
Minneapolis, MN 55411

Light refreshments and door prizes will be available. For more information, call MPS Student Placement Services at 612.668.1840

Please complete this NOC Parent Survey - 5 Minutes to Help Our Mpls Schools

2011-07-20T08:48:00.000-07:00

Neighborhoods Organizing for Change

Parent Survey on Education

Over the last year, NOC has been building a community of parents, teachers, and community leaders who want to work on improving education, especially for lower-income children. In the Fall, NOC is preparing to launch an ambitious campaign to improve our schools. Prior to that, the folks at NOC want to listen to parents just like you to make sure they work on the most pressing issues facing our community schools. That's why NOC needs you to spend about five minutes taking their education survey. You can click here to take it online right now.

Already, over 240 parents have shared their insights and experiences with NOC. Their survey sample includes a good representative cross section of the racial, cultural, and economic diversity of the Twin Cities. Your survey answers will help shape NOC's agenda for 2011, and our community will be stronger for it.

There is one more week to collect data, as NOC must finish the survey by this weekend so that they can start studying the results and preparing a report to release in September when school starts up again. After you take the survey yourself, please consider sharing it with other parents from your childrens' school, or from your neighborhood.

For further information about NOC:

The NOC Education Committee
www.mnnoc.org
www.facebook.com/mnnoc
(612) 246-3132

Pre-School Art Experience @ Logan Park next week: July 25-28

2011-07-19T11:37:00.000-07:00

My Masterpiece Art Al Fresco

Monday-Thursday July 25-28 9:30-11:30

Cost: $55

Ages 3-5

Join us for a week of making art inside and out. Paint in the park, get autographs from trees and build your own park sculptures. Make homemade paper you can plant and grow. It's art with summer fun in mind! Camp includes outdoor playtime and free lunch.

Instructor: JoAnne Peters. JoAnne has been teaching nature and art classes to children in Minneapolis for the past five years. JoAnne holds degrees in Visual Communication and Environment & Community. She loves to take society's flotsam and jetsam and make something beautiful. She lives in Northeast with her husband and two children.

Logan Park

690 13^th Ave NE

612-370-4927

minneapolisparks.org

Please register by Friday, July 22^nd online at: http://activenet18.active.com/minneapolisparks/

Important Community Meeting on MSP Enrollment in NE Mpls: TONIGHT 6/22/11, 6-8 @ Windom Park

2011-06-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

Community Meetings

Join us to learn more and be part of developing solutions that may impact school communities for the 2012-13 school year. Meetings will feature small group discussion to explore creative solutions.

Thurs., June 16, 5 - 7 p.m .Brian Coyle Center
420 – 15th Ave. S., Minneapolis 55454
Meeting Focus: The Somali community, MPS and increased enrollment
*Note: this meeting will be conducted in Somali

Sat., June 18, 2011, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Green Central Community School
3416 4th Ave. S., Minneapolis 55408
Meeting Focus: Increased enrollment in the Green, Jefferson and Andersen attendance areas

Wed., June 22, 2011, 6 - 8 p.m.
Pillsbury/Windom Park Community Center
2251 Hayes St. NE., Minneapolis 55418
Meeting Focus: Northeast K-5 increased enrollment

Thurs., June 23, 2011, 6 - 8 p.m.
North Commons Park
1801 James Ave. N., Minneapolis 55411
Meeting Focus: Northside enrollment
*Dinner, childcare and interpreters will be available at all meetings.

Welcome Chevy Chase to the Neighborhood @ the Edison HS Green Community Schools Kickoff!

2011-05-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

Help MPS NE Schools by eating fantastic NE food!

2011-04-25T21:07:00.000-07:00

NE Community Bands Together to Support Edison

2011-04-10T20:41:00.000-07:00

Keep an eye out for upcoming full page, full color Edison ad in the May 5th issue of the Northeaster. The ad will highlight past, present and future Edison students, introduce the new Green Resource program funded by actor / comedian Chevy Chase & wife Jayni Chase and promote six (6) of the award winning instructors currently teaching at Edison High School. Plus, the advertisement will prominently display each of the ad sponsors.

The cost of the ad will be paid out of proceeds from the sale of donated restaurant gift certificates. Seventeen Northeast restaurants & the Eastside Food Cooperative are collectively donating 216 ($10) gift certificates to be sold at face value with 100% of the proceeds going toward the cost of the ad.

The May 5th ad is sponsored by the following Northeast establishments. Amici, Anchor Fish & Chips, Chimborazo, Crescent Moon Bakery, Eastside Food Cooperative, Elsie's, Emily's, Erte, Hazel's Northeast, Holy Land, JAX Café, Marino's, Mill City Café, Modern Café, Northeast Social, Red Stag Supper Club, Sen Yai Sen Lek, and The Sample Room!

You can thank the generous sponsors by choosing to frequent their fine establishments as often as possible. When you do so, please take an extra moment to thank them for sponsoring the big “E” ad in the Northeaster.

Kurt Nowacki, Edison Volunteer & Parent of Two Future Tommies

Waite Park Spring Gala & Silent Auction: 4/9/11 @ Eastside Neighborhood Services

2011-03-25T04:51:00.000-07:00

Ice Cream Social & "Footloose" @ Edison, Thursday, March 17, 6:00 pm

2011-03-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

2011-03-04T06:22:00.000-08:00

Lady Tommies Tournament Begins Thursday, March 3, 7pm @ Edison!

2011-03-01T12:59:00.000-08:00

Elementary Night @ Lady Tommies Basketball Feb. 18 7:00 pm

2011-02-09T15:46:00.000-08:00

Attention, Future Tommies!

DON'T MISS YOUR NIGHT OF FUN AT THOMAS EDISON HIGH SCHOOL!

February 18th

Elementary School Night

We hope you'll plan to join us for this exciting Lady Tommies basketball game!

We've got lots of fun things planned for all of our Future Tommies including musical performances, a dance competition, cheering, and a Fan of the Game competition, just to make it a little bit more fun.

ALL KIDS GET IN FREE!

BELONG. BELIEVE. BECOME.

PEN Meeting Monday Feb. 7, 6:30 pm @ Edison Media Center

2011-02-02T06:24:00.000-08:00

Agenda
PEN Meeting
February 7, 2011

I.      Introductions

II.      Spring Events at our Schools

III.     How PEN can help

    A. Fundraising for print ads
    B. e-Digest/Blog

IV.      NE Parade Preparations

Middle School Night @ Lady Tommie Basketball Game, 1/27, 7 pm

2011-01-22T04:05:00.000-08:00

Middle School Night!

at Lady Tommie Basketball Game

Thursday, January 27, 7:00pm

Edison vs. Patrick Henry

Edison Gym

700 22^nd Avenue NE

Come cheer on the defending sub-section 4AA champs!

Eastside Minneapolis Middle School Students get in for free!

(regular admission $6/adults, $4students, free/children under 7)

Performances by the Edison Band and the Edison Alumni Band.

Middle school students: Win a TV with half court shot!

Compete to be “Fan of the Game.”

Sightings of Eastside Middle School Celebrities likely!

Area A Family Meeting, 1/27, 6-8pm @ Sheridan - 1201 University Ave NE

2011-01-22T04:04:00.000-08:00

Let’s Talk Money & School Budgets

Do you have ideas about:

· What is and is not working for your student?

· What the district priorities should be?

· How decisions are made?

Would you like your voice to be heard so that you and other North/Northeast families can influence decision makers?

Come to the Area A Parent Advisory gathering to learn about the budget process and give your feedback on what is and is not working for your student.

Sarah Snapp, Mark Bonine and Keith Simon will present an overview of the district budget situation and process. Then, participants will have an opportunity to share their ideas about investment and reduction ideas. Sarah will share feedback from families with the Superintendent, Cabinet and Board of Education before decisions are made so that YOUR input can be part of the decision making process.

We’re saving a seat for you !

Translations, Light Meal and Childcare Provided

For more information contact Lynne Crockett, Area A Community Liaison, 612-280-6024

NEMS Winter Warm-Up, Friday 1/21 @ Rushford Hall

2011-01-12T10:32:00.001-08:00

Winter Warm-Up Fundraiser

Friday, January 21, 2011

7:00 - 11:00 pm

Rushford Hall, 2223 Central Ave NE

Support Northeast Middle School Theater by attending the Winter Warm-up fundraiser! The event is for adults only and tickets cost $25.00 per person. This covers both food and beverages as well entertainment featuring the Americana sound of Whiskey Mondays.

NEMS Int'l Night of Sharing, Thurs., 12/9 5:30 pm

2010-12-07T07:02:00.000-08:00

Northeast Middle School's

International Night of Sharing

December 9th, 2010

Dinner 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

School play follows (curtain rises at 7:00 PM)

A full evening of conversation, connection, and entertainment!

Pre-Game Fundraising Event at Sen Yai Sen Lek, 12/2, 4:45 pm

2010-11-24T06:20:00.000-08:00

Morris Park Players' "Annie" at Edison Nov. 19 & 20

2010-11-16T12:31:00.000-08:00

Morris Park Players Community Theatre proudly opens its 10-11 season with the Broadway musical monster-hit Annie, November 5, 6, 12, 19, 20 at 7:30 pm and November 13 and 14 at 2:00 pm at their new home of Thomas Edison High School Auditorium. Annie is one of Broadway’s longest running shows ever, full of great songs and the delightfully heart-warming tale of the Depression-era orphan girl who finds happiness with a grouchy millionaire and his loving gal.

Morris Park Players announces Annie cameo guest appearances by City of Minneapolis Council Member for Ward One Kevin Reich (Nov 5 and 12), the WCCO Radio host John Hines (Nov 6), Thomas Edison High School Principal Carla Steinbach (Nov 13), WCCO TV reporter Jason DeRusha (Nov 14), and KSTP 5 Eyewitness News sports anchor Joe Schmit (Nov 20). Nov 19 guest to be announced. Guests will perform the role of "Judge Brandeis." See cameo biographies below.

Tickets ($12-$15) are available at http://www.morrisparkplayers.org/ or 612-724-8373.

Move to Thomas Edison High School

After Folwell Middle School closed its doors due to budget cuts, Morris Park Players (MPP) needed to leave their residence in south Minneapolis after 25 years. The loyal audience of MPP has followed their productions from previous locations of Nokomis Junior High and Roosevelt Senior High for many years prior to that. Thomas Edison High School in northeast Minneapolis has invited and welcomed MPP into their Auditorium and school as their new permanent home.

Edison’s teacher Stacey Kilton will play the role of Sophie, and 12th grade student Taji Robinson, and 9th grade student Skye Horton will perform as part of the adult chorus in this production of Annie.

The Showcase is Coming!

2010-11-01T13:11:00.000-07:00

Kids Vote Minneapolis!

2010-10-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

E-DAY (Election Day) is this Tuesday, Nov. 2!

Kids Voting Minneapolis will be at your polling place, so bring your students because they can vote anytime from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at their special voting booth on their special ballot. Kids, like adults, will be better informed voters if they take a little time to read about the candidates. As a parent, you can help them Google almost any candidate’s name and that will lead to the candidate’s website. You can check out the sites for the State Constitutional Officers (Gov., Sec. of State, State Auditor, Attorney Gen), 5^th Dist. U.S. Congressional Rep., and MPS School Board.

We still need volunteers for 3:00-5:00 p.m. and 5:00-7:00 p.m. shifts to assist the students. Contact Ellie Wikstrom at wikst016@umn.edu or 612.721.6116.

Area A (Zone 1) Meeting Thursday Oct. 28 6:30 pm @ PACER Center

2010-10-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

The Area A (Zone 1) meeting for Thursday October 28th, is being changed from Olson Middle School to the PACER Center in Bloomington.

This is Parent Involvement Month and in honor of that PACER Center is offering a Free Dinner meeting at their offices in Bloomington. For those who do not have transportation, PACER will provide transportation either with a bus, van or taxi. While childcare is not provided, there is a cash stipend at the end of the meeting to cover your childcare.

Directions to PACER Center: - (see the map)
From I-494 take the Normandale Boulevard exit south to 84th Street; turn left.
Take the next left onto the frontage road.
PACER Center is a one-story brick building immediately north of the bridge.
Turn right into the parking lot. Enter on the north side of the building.

Fundraiser: Wednesday, October 20 5-7 pm

2010-10-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

Dedication of Outdoor Musical Instruments at Jackson Square Park Friday, Sept. 24

2010-09-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

Belong. Believe. Become.

The Minneapolis City of Lakes Rotary Club is donating seven outdoor musical instruments at Jackson Square Park in celebration of its 25^th anniversary (1985-2010). The installation of these instruments started yesterday (9-15-2010) and will be completed in time for the ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication on the afternoon of our homecoming game, Friday, September 24^th. Knutson Construction has donated the installation of these instruments.

John Vandermyde Sr. is a member of the Rotary Club and has participated in this project with Kevin Reich, Edison class of ’85 and City of Minneapolis First Ward City Councilmember, Minneapolis Park Board staff, Minneapolis Park Commissioners, Douglas Schmitt from Schmidt music, Bob Gardner of Knutson Construction, and Beth Hulteng, Edison band teacher, as well as many members of the Rotary Club. John is also a member of the Edison Community/Sports Foundation and is an Edison Class of ’58 Alumni. Scott Lipscomb from the University of Minnesota Music Department will have his students complete a research project. This one to two year study will involve students observing how these instruments are used through the community and school. To find out more information about these instruments, please go to http://www.freenotesharmonypark.com/

Jackson Square Park is on its way to be one of the most amazing parks in Northeast Minneapolis. Please show your support and appreciation for the arts by attending the ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, September 24^th between 4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

NE School Showcase Planning Meeting TONIGHT 6:30 @ Edison!

2010-09-20T10:57:00.000-07:00

Join us tonight as we begin planning the very successful NE School Showcase. This year's showcase is set for Saturday, November 13 from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm at the Edison High School Community GYM!

Make sure your school is represented! See you tonight!

Inviting Un-Enrolled Students to "Come Home to Minneapolis"

2010-09-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

Too many young people leave school before earning their diploma. We want them to know that we can work with them on a plan to come back to school and earn their diploma. We want them back.

WWYB Centrals

* Broadway School 1250 West Broadway Ave.
Diane Glawe, team leader
Open from 10 to 4

* Wilder School 3345 Chicago Ave. S.
Diane Elkerton, team leader
Open from 10 to 4

On site:

Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) : Placement staff, & social workers

Translators (City of Minneapolis Neighborhoods and Community Relations Department, Minneapolis Public Schools, and others)

Hennepin County Front Door staff (social services & youth resources)

Youth Link staff (youth workers)

American Sign Language Interpreter (note: Broadway location only)

City of Minneapolis Neighborhood and Community Relations Department

City of Minneapolis Nurse (note: at Wilder only – immunizations)

AchieveMpls - STEP-UP Summer Jobs Program

4th Annual Edison BBQ a HUGE Event!

2010-09-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

The 4th Annual Edison Community BBQ tally is in! The community, Edison students and staff served 1400 burgers, brats, polishes and sen yai sen lek chicken cuts. Plus, we went through 20 gallons of coleslaw, 25 gallons of potato salad, 18 gallons of baked beans, over 1500 bottles of water & sodas, 5 gallons of pickle spears, 600 lbs of melons and1000 brownies personally made by Amy Fields, the GM of the Eastside Food Cooperative. We estimate approximately 1100 people visited the BBQ!

Special thanks to the following 2010 Grill Meisters:

Legendary Grill Meister Shaun Wakaruk

Celebrity Grill Meister's Bill Jaap & Joe Surisook

Relief Grill Meister's Gerald Miller, John Vandermyde Sr. and CM Kevin Reich filled in for Legendary Grill Meister Niles Schulz this year and did a great job too.

Special thanks to those that showed up and said, "I'm here. Put me to work!"

Jennifer Arneson, Lisa Brock, Tamsen Brock, Amy Fields, Rebecca Gagnon, Egan Haugasag, Stephanie Johnson, Adelheid Koski, Sarah Larson, Shannon McDonough, Jeff Morrison, John Moore, Kurt Nowacki, Kevin Obrien, Karen Peterson, Ian Pierce, Ward 1 CM Kevin Reich, Eric Skoglund, Laura Subak, John Vandermyde Sr., Doug Werner and more...sorry if we didn't mention you.

Of course, the event can't happen without the sponsors. Thank You!

The 2010 Edison Community BBQ sponsors were...

Eastside Food Cooperative

Good Carma Volkswagen

Holland Neighborhood Improvement Association

Jim Lupient Buick GMC

Larson Dental

MM Handyman Services

M&M Mortgage

Northeast Kiwanis

Rock Solid Companies

sen yai sen lek

Signature Mechanical

West Title

Special thanks to the Edison students for their leadership and hard work!

The Edison Staff and community members working the event were most impressed this year with how the Edison Students took a leadership role! Thanks to so many Edison students for working this event so your parents, the majority of the staff and the community could relax and enjoy a great night. We all think it's great to see how many student leaders are rising to the call at Thomas Edison High School.

Special thanks to everyone who spread the word on facebook or invited others with a call, email, handwritten note or by word of mouth. It was great to see the our local newspaper, the Northeaster promote the event on several occasions too!

This was a group effort. It takes many, many mini-promoters to get over 1000 people to show up at a BBQ. This team of promoters created a great sounding board. One person noted that he had received an invite from 5 different people. Every single person that invited someone else promoted this event and should be proud for doing so.

It's a great way to start a year ! Please join us for our upcoming school events, cheer us on at our games and see our performing arts productions. To learn more about our school and to see the latest news and happenings, visit our web page at: edison.mpls.k12.mn.us. Is there an event you would like us to share with others? Please e-mail Pamela Vertina, Public Relations Coordinator at pamela.vertina@mpls.k12.mn.us.

Carla Steinbach
Principal of Thomas Edison High School

4th Annual Edison Open House/NE Community BBQ

2010-08-12T08:16:00.000-07:00

Edison Junior Achievement Honors

2010-07-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the Edison students who took 4th place in the Junior Achievement National Competition of the Year on Tuesday, July 20. Their Edison Tommie Co., which created and marketed a cookbook triumphed over 20 other teams from the United States and Canada, all of whom went through district and state competitions before getting to the national level.

Sustainable Transformation for Our Failing Schools

2010-07-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Here in Minnesota and in more than a dozen other states, community organizations are gathering to share new information about who is affected by the current approach to school "turnarounds", and to propose a sustainable transformation plan that puts resources where they are really needed, and engages the community in decision making. Please join concerned parents, students, teachers, and community members to learn how together,... we can make important changes to give all of our kids the opportunities they deserve.

Where: Fairview Park Recreation Center

621 29h Avenue North

Minneapolis, MN 55411
When: Wednesday, July 28th, 2010

Light refreshments will be provided!

___________________________________________________________________

Minnesota Neighborhoods Organizing for Change (NOC) is a new non-profit committed to building power in low-income and moderate-income neighborhoods through community organizing, civic engagement, and education. NOC is a member-funded and member-run organization that takes on the social and economic justice issues that impact our community the most.

Whether it's huge issues like healthcare and bank reform, or a small neighborhood concern like getting a stop sign installed at a dangerous intersection, NOC members work together to apply their collective strength and get things done.

Learn more at www.mnnoc.org

MPS Kids Really Can Eat Well!

2010-07-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

From its colorful salads, trendy sandwiches and new menu of fresh entrees, Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) are making big strides with Farm to School. Rosemary Dederichs, MPS Director of Nutrition, knows the challenges inherent in sourcing 25,000 servings of farm-fresh produce, but her collaboration with produce supplier Cre8it, Inc. and a new venture with organic grower Featherstone Farms are proving that the district's volume challenges can be met.

MPS staff work with Twin Cities-based Cre8it to purchase local produce like tomatoes, onions and peppers for Garde Mange (translation: fresh cuisine) salads and sandwiches. Plus, Cre8it will supply locally grown, pre-cut cabbage, potatoes, squash, cranberries and other fresh foods on days when fresh fruits and vegetables are menued.

Beginning in September 2010, MPS will also partner with Featherstone Farms to incorporate Featherstone's organically grown produce into the district's meal offerings. This effort grew out of a partnership developed by a school's Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and Featherstone's Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Lastly, MPS is developing a comprehensive communications plan to help inform students and parents about its fresh new menu and locally grown foods.

For more detailed information, contact:

Rosemary Dederichs
Phone: 612-668-2820
Rosemary.Dederichs@mpls.k12.mn.us

Art in the Park @ Windom

2010-07-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

Kids in grades K-6 are invited to Windom Park, 2251 Hayes St NE, for a free art program put on by the Minneapolis Institute of Arts Tuesdays & Thursdays, July 20, 22, 27 & 29, 1:30 pm. Visit www.artsmia.org or call 612-870-3104 for more information.

Art in the Park @ Logan

2010-06-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

Come explore math through the power of art in the park! Play with scale and size to create art of your own and express yourself with numbers!

Art in the Park will be at…

Logan Park: Fridays, July 9, 16, 23 at 10:30-12p.m.

Grades K-6

FREE

Visit www.artsmia.org or call us at (612) 870-3104

2010 Edison Tommie Youth Football Clinic

2010-06-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

June 24, 2010

PLACE: Edison High School

Football Stadium

Time: 4-6PM

Cost: $7 (Covers Camp T-shirt and Hot Dogs)

Who: Kids K-8^th Grade

New Schools Community Meeting - June 23

2010-06-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

Minneapolis Public Schools invites you to attend our New Schools Community Meeting on June 23, 2010 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Webster Building. Please come to learn more about Minneapolis College Preparatory, a new school applying to MPS for approval by the Board of Education.

More detail about this event as well as location information can be found in the attached invitation and map. Please feel free to forward invitation to anyone you think may be interested in attending this community meeting.

RSVP to Vicki Walzer at: mswalz@comcast.net by June 21, 2010.

We hope to see you next week!

Jon Bacal

Executive Director, Office of New Schools

Adrienne Jordan

Program Manager, Office of New Schools

Northeast Parade: June 22, 2010

2010-06-14T11:32:00.000-07:00

The Celebrate Northeast Parade occurs on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 from 6:30-9:00pm. The parade, celebrating its 81st anniversary, is the second oldest in Minnesota . The parade draws 8,000 people along the thirteen block route of Central Avenue. Approximately, 120 entrants participate in the parade including visiting community royalty, Shriner’s Clubs, marching bands, entertainers, non-profit groups, local politicians and community organizations, many of them unique to the Celebrate Northeast Parade.

All five NE public schools will be in the parade and are #70-75 in the line-up. Come march with your school! The parade begins at Central/ & 28th Ave NE and ends at Central & 14th Ave NE. Join us in celebrating NE and our fabulous schools!

PEN Meeting - Monday, June 14, 2010, 6:30 pm @ Edison

2010-06-11T05:48:00.000-07:00

AGENDA

Welcome/Introductions: 5 minutes (All)

Meet the New Principals: 3 new principals will be at the helm in our community. A couple will be able to join us to introduce themselves (10 mn)

Future of PEN: After five years, it’s time to reevaluate (50-75 min.)

Revisit the vision/mission
What has worked/not worked?
What else should PEN do?
How often should PEN meet?
Priorities?
What would a workable leadership team look like?

Leadership at Thomas Edison High School Stabilizes!

2010-05-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

Thomas Edison High School is pleased to announce that Carla Steinbach will continue as principal. It has been determined that since a formal turnaround plan is on file with the district and state, Edison is able to keep their existing principal. Edison is fortunate to have the tremendous support of their staff, students, parents and community members. Many came together and attended information meetings, sent letters to the state, and gave feedback to the district. This support was invaluable! Yes, that's Carla with Will Smith in that photo to the left...

Congressman Keith Ellison Hosts Achievement Gap Discussion

2010-05-12T08:24:00.000-07:00

"The Future of Our Schools: Closing the Achievement Gap"

Monday, May 17th, 2010

4:30 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.

Columbia Heights Senior High School - Hylander Center

1400 49th Avenue Northeast

Columbia Heights, MN 55421-1939

Featuring the following honored guest:

Mr. Carl Harris - Carl Harris serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Policy & Strategic Initiatives of Elementary and Secondary Education in the U.S. Department of Education. Mr. Harris has taken an active role in the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Since 2006, Mr. Harris had served as superintendent of schools in Durham, N.C. and in Franklin County, N.C. In 2009 he was honored with the Central Carolina Regional Superintendent of the Year award. He earned his Ph.D. in Education Administration from North Carolina State University.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Darlynn Benjamin, Deputy District Director, at 612-522-1212 or darlynn.benjamin@mail.house.gov.

Northeast Middle School Beautification Day - May 15

2010-05-11T04:16:00.000-07:00

Sake Brewing Demonstration & Silent Auction Fundraiser for MPS

2010-05-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

Join the Advocates for Minneapolis Public Education (AMPE) – a group of young professionals in the Twin Cities area who are concerned with providing an excellent, equitable education for all students in Minneapolis Public Schools. AMPE is partnering with Moto-I, the first sake brewery outside of Japan!

May 19, 2010
5:30 pm
at Moto-I
2940 Lyndale Ave S.
Minneapolis

Your ticket includes a sake brewing demonstration, sake tasting, appetizers, soft drinks, and an awesome silent auction line-up on their stellar rooftop patio!

Silent auction items include a week stay in Paris, theater tickets, restaurant gift certificates and local outdoor activities.

Additional food and beverages are also available at happy hour prices.

$20 Pre-registration

$25 Day-of

Register online at:

https://www.achievempls.org/events/uape-social-hour/

or call Sara 612-455-1551

We want that 200-capacity hot-spot rooftop to be standing room only! Bring a friend, and we'll see you there!

Zone 1 - Area A Parent Meeting

2010-04-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO JOIN US TO WORK ON

IMPROVING STUDENT PROGRESS !

April 28, 2010 6-8pm

Jenny Lind/Olson Lower Campus

5025 Bryant Avenue North

AGENDA

Introductions – Co-Chair: Celeste Brown, Parent Liaison: Lynne Crockett
Your name, school(s) and what brought you to the meeting tonight.

DISCUSSION TOPICS:
Turnaround Schools process – Steve Dibb, MN Department of Education
Choices have now been made about what to do to raise achievement in the turnaround schools. Steve Dibb from the State of Minnesota will explain what led to this process and answer parent questions. A representative from the district will be there to explain how the decisions were reached.

Parent Liaisions - Snapshot of parent involvement opportunities at Area A schools. Come share with us what your school is doing to allow parents to get involved in the school and connect with other parents.

Food and childcare provided.

We're saving a seat for you!

We thank You and our Parent Liaisons for joining us.

Audubon Park Spring WingDing this Weekend!

2010-04-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

Audubon Neighborhood Association invites you to its annual community festival honoring our urban ecology. Enjoy food, fun, games, and to meet like-minded folks who cherish the environment we share. The event will be held on Saturday, April 24th, 11am–2pm, at Audubon Park, 29th Ave. and Buchanan St. NE and will offer a variety of activities for both kids and grown-ups. Stop by anytime; the WingDing will be held rain or shine!

Activities will include:

Bird tours with Audubon Society experts at 10:00 and 11:15 am
Making bird feeders with the 4-H kids and the Eastside Food Co-op
Making environmentally-safe household cleaner with the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization
Carnival games and an inflatable castle for kids
Fun activities with the Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Info on making your home more energy efficient
A performance by the Northeast Middle School band
Pizza from local restaurant Amici

Bye Bye Birdie at Edison This Weekend!

2010-04-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

MPS headquarters vote rescheduled

2010-04-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

MINNEAPOLIS – The Minneapolis Board of Education’s planned vote on proposals for new administrative headquarters, initially scheduled for today, April 13, has been rescheduled for April 27.

“We thank the community for its patience as we continue educating the public about the three proposals that the board is considering,” said Superintendent Bill Green. “Two additional public informational meetings will be scheduled over the next two weeks for members of the public who were unable to attend earlier meetings.”

Details about informational meeting times, dates and locations will be publicized and posted at www.mpls.k12.mn.us when they are available.

Currently, MPS operates administrative offices in four buildings: 807 NE Broadway, Webster, 1250 W Broadway and the Lehmann Center. The new headquarters proposals right-size the amount of administrative space to the number of employees, reducing administrative office space from 633,000 square feet to 275,000. Consolidating space into one facility will save approximately $10 million over the next three decades and provide administrative staff with an appropriate place to work.

The three proposals to be reviewed at the rescheduled meeting include:

1250 West Broadway: New build-to-suit structure for District Headquarters/Welcome Center. The proposal includes a partial renovation of the former Anishinabe building at 2225 East Lake St. for Welcome Center/Community Ed/Adult Basic Education. (This satellite option could be part of the 807 renovation as well.)

807 NE Broadway (current headquarters): Full renovation of existing district administration building

11th Avenue & 3rd Street South (Valspar Building): Lease of an existing single tenant office building with parking ramp

Edison "Turnaround" Community Meeting

2010-04-12T14:51:00.000-07:00

April 14, 2010 - 7:00 pm

An important conversation about Edison's future. The MN Dept. of Education identified Edison as "persistently low achieving" based on test results and graduation rates prior to the "fresh start" that went into effect in Fall 2007. Based on new state and federal requirements, MPS is required to make some structural changes which will be discussed at this meeting. Please join us, past, present and future Tommies!

AGENDA

1. Introductions and welcome

2. Review of the state’s list of lowest performing schools and why Edison is included

3. Review performance data

4. Review Edison’s reform efforts to date

5. Discuss turnaround model requirements

6. Seek input and feedback from parents—how could we use these resources most successfully at Edison

Minutes:March 15, 2010

2010-04-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

Attendees: Dean DeGroot (NEMS), Chris Ramadan (Sheridan), Mary Marbaret Bartik (Pillsbury), John Vandermyde (Edison CSF), Marcia Thomas (Pillsbury/NEMS), Pat Teske (MSP), Joanna Cortright (MSP), Jean Neuman (Sheridan), Willie Fort (MSP), Kelley Leaf (SEAC), Sarah Larson (Edison alum), Jenn Bennington (Waite Park), Aloida Zaragoza (UofM Upward Bound), Mike Iacarella (Edison)

Sheridan Arts Work Group Update

Pat Teske, Joann Cortright, Chris Ramadan and Jean Neumann provided an overview and handout regarding Sheridan’s progress in re-shaping and re-branding the arts magnet program emerging at the school. Pat stated that the effort is in response to the PEN/Area A meeting which took place last summer, where community members and other end users came together around the desire to make Sheridan Arts Magnet into an arts school that makes use of local NE artists, articulates a meaningful curriculum, and has a logical pathway Edison. Sheridan has been working with Ramsey Arts Magnet, located in southwest Minneapolis, to have some similar offerings and organization, allowing students a north and south arts magnet option. Jean is communicating with Carla Steinbach, principal of Edison, so that some kind of linkage can be developed.

Chris discussed the Sheridan framework, an effort to energize staff, students and the community. A matrix was described, involving arts teaching, arts integration, multiple intelligences, collaboration, and community partnerships. He mentioned ways of “going deeper” into the arts. The arts are integrated with all academic subjects and are rooted in curricular standards. Chris also provided a matrix on all of the classes offered at each grade and how many instructional hours per week in each. Possible partnerships with Perpich Center for the Arts were discussed, using artist in residence.

What can PEN do to help: Identify local artists who can become involved with Sheridan. For example, local artists could display their art in the lobby by the auditorium.

Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) Update

Kelly Leaf is a NE parent who is member of SEAC, which meets monthly (usually first Monday), with other parents, Don Allen (Director of Special Education for MPS), Jackie Turner (MPS), and Courtney Cushing-Kiernat (consultant). 17% of MPS kids are in special education, which is a high percentage when compared with other districts. Special education dollars are not taken from regular education funds, which is a common misconception.

How are Changing School Options (CSO) affecting special needs kids? Kelly told of the challenge of having equal services in all parts of the district and not having too much disruption for these kids, who are often very impacted by changes. The effort is to allow kids to go to the same schools as their siblings, whenever possible. Special education kids can go out of their zones, if there is room at those schools, or parents can drive them. A handout of special education offerings in Zone 1 was also provided.

Most special education kids are in level 1 or 2 programs in MPS, so there is a great deal of mainstreaming which occurs. Regarding pathways, transitions are being minimzed at natual breaks (end of 5th grade, 8th grade, etc.). Kelly suggested that parents make use of school counselors and have individual educational plans (IEPs) which discuss transitions and transportation for their children. She is a great believer that parents need to be vocal and fight for the services in their school/zone, so that they aren’t left unserved by the district. For more information about SEAC, see: http://speced.mpls.k12.mn.us/SEAC.html

Friends of NE Youth

Cub Scout Pack 5418 recently formed under this chartering organization. Friends of NE Youth was started to build more activities for kids in NE. Community service is one of the experiences provided, but more activities and partnerships are being pursued. Other campfire organizations may be formed as well (girl scouts, 4-H, etc.)

MPS to Host Informational Meeting on District Headquarters Proposals

2010-04-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

MINNEAPOLIS – The Minneapolis Public Schools on April 8 will host an informational meeting to provide community members with the opportunity to learn more about the three proposals for right-sizing district headquarters that were presented to the Board of Education on March 23. At the meeting, representatives from each of the three firms under consideration will detail their proposals and provide the community with an opportunity to ask questions.

Currently, MPS operates administrative offices in four buildings: 807 NE Broadway, Webster, 1250 W Broadway and the Lehmann Center. The new headquarters proposals right-size the amount of administrative space to the number of employees, reducing administrative office space from 633,000 square feet to 275,000. Consolidating space into one facility will save approximately $10 million over the next three decades and provide administrative staff with an appropriate place to work.

The three proposals for review include:

1250 West Broadway: New build-to-suit structure for District Headquarters/Welcome Center. The proposal includes a partial renovation of the former Anishinabe building at 2225 East Lake St. for Welcome Center/Community Ed/Adult Basic Education. (This satellite option could be part of the 807 renovation as well.)

807 NE Broadway (current headquarters): Full renovation of existing district administration building

11th Avenue & 3rd Street South (Valspar Building): Lease of an existing single tenant office building with parking ramp

Childcare and Hmong, Spanish and Somali interpretive services will be available at the meeting. To RSVP for childcare, please call (612) 668-0230.

WHAT: Informational meeting on district headquarters proposals

WHEN: April 8, 2010, from 6:30-8 p.m.

WHERE: St. Maron Catholic Church, Cedars Hall, 602 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413-1937

Northeast Middle School Presents Seussical Jr.

2010-03-16T03:06:00.000-07:00

Agenda: March 15, 2010

2010-03-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome/Introductions (5 mns.)

Sheridan Arts Work Group Update (30-40 min.)

Special Education Advisory Council Update (10-20 min.)

Friends of NE Youth (5-10 min.)

Announcements: (5-10 min.)

Next Area A Meeting: March 24, 6:00 - 8:00 pm at Loring Community School
Spring Fundraisers

Next PEN Meeting:

April 19, 2010, 6:30 – 8:00 PM at Edison Media Center

Agenda Topic: PEN Self-Audit

Minutes: February 22, 2010

2010-03-09T05:15:00.000-08:00

Attendees: Dean DeGroot (NEMS), Stephanie Ollila (Edison), Larry Umphrey (Waite Park/Audubon Park), Huy Nguyen (NE Park), Marcia Thomas (Pillsbury/NEMS), Sara Ackmann (Parks/Rec), Alita Bergan (Waite Park Community Council), Jill Davis (NEMS, MPS School Board), Liz Wielinski (Park Board), Jenny Arneson (Waite Park), Chris Aarseth (Edison), Mike Iacarella (Edison), Sarah Larson (Audubon Park Neighborhood), Kris Solz (NEMS/Edison), Bridget Altmann (Marcy/Edison), Troy Wellington (Edison), Shaun Wakaruk (Parks Wrestling), Jamison Rusthoven (Edison), John Washington (MPS District), Mandy Larson (Edison), Tammy Rusnacko (Waite Park), Angie Powell (NEMS), Kimberlee Adams (NEMS), Debbie Nelson (NEMS), Kurt Nowacki (Edison), Shannon McDonough (City Council Aide), Kevin Reich (NEMS/City Council Member), Laura Ericksen-White (Pillsbury), and Paul Werni (Waite Park/Parks Wrestling)

Jenny Arneson led a discussion on sports in NE as a follow-up to last Spring’s initial meeting on the subject.

The goal was to address sports competitiveness and gaps in offerings, with participants who were provided key questions to address. Ideas to fill these gaps were brainstormed, with special focus on middle years sports opportunities.

What has been accomplished in the effort to fill the sports gap?
What needs to be done, and how can we work to accomplish our goals?
How can K-8 fit within the middle school/high school partnership?
How can the Parks best help kids make the transition to competitive or high school sports?
How can the community assist with the recruitment, publicity, and funding needed to make NE athletic pathways thrive?

Paul Werni said that the youth wrestling team (Minneapolis United Team) was recently involved in an individual competition at the gopher state tourney—NYAF. Kids from all over Minneapolis competed with various teams outside of the city and metro. At this point, competition is relegated mostly to one league. Paul reported that currently there are 15-20 kids from NE; some clubs/leagues have over 130 kids; most practices have been held at Edison. There is a desire to have a central location in NE, with more opportunities for competitive matches. The United Team has kids that go thru 6th grade. Minneapolis Park & Rec. can provide wrestling through 7 & 8th grades. Efforts are underway to attempt to get wrestling facilities at NE Middle School (NEMS).

According to one coach, kids can join HS teams from 7th grade onward. If wrestling occurs at NEMS, the team will need to join a league (probably outside of Minneapolis). A transition is needed for wrestling at the middle school ages—same age group competition. Middle School wrestling in the parks hasn’t seemed to work in the past. The sentiment is that if no competitive wrestling is in place, a number of wrestlers will choose to leave MPS. There is an information void about these opportunities. Some kids get brochures/etc., while others lack the information. Kimberlee Adams said NEMS is interested in having a wrestling program. Space could be made available in the cafeteria and sometimes in the gym; transportation costs would likely be covered by NEMS and possibly expenses for uniforms, but details still need to be sorted out. What other costs exist?

Deb Nelson reported that a few NEMS students are playing at the HS level to get competitive sports. How can we get separate teams so they can get same-age, challenging competition? Games played in middle school occur right after school; Parks/Rec. games occur in the evening. What may work for one sport may not work for another because of the scheduling and facility differences between sports. For example, there are limited swimming facilities: NEMS has a pool; the University of MN provides opportunities for 6th/7th graders, but it can be an expensive option. There is the need for trained staff, i.e., liability issues, and there are start time differences between sports.

Mike Iacarella mentioned the issue of park identity. Everything is spread out and no one knows where/what sports are offered at the various parks. Park Identity also plays out in terms of funding issues (e.g. Bottineau Boosters only want to fund Logan Park). Larry Umphrey told of efforts to establish several “pots" - districts that funnel kids towards Edison. Having certain parks specializing in certain sports during the seasons will enable the community to know where to go. Also, pooling kids from several parks for one sport (e.g., Upper NE Soccer) will also allow for viable teams to be created.

Laura Ericksen-White said that her local park (Windom) has been a wonderful skating rink, but it is no longer available. She was concerned that with the early closing of the rink, nearby kids will skate at St. Anthony. This is a problem, because it opens the door to kids/families exploring other options there for hockey. Larry mentioned that there are cost issues in keeping the rinks open after President's Day. Sara Ackmann stated that this will change next year. What’s the cost to keep rink open for 2 more weeks? Is this an expense that parents/organizations could cover?

Kevin Reich questioned how could we ensure resources at Parks. Perhaps there could be plans to better manage the resources? Jill Davis stated that a Middle School Sports group existed in the past. We need a NE Sports Collaborative—looking at collaborative efforts for pooling resources. Community Foundations also need to be explored. Jill stated the she recently spoke with the CEO of Graco, who is an Edison graduate, and their foundation funds sports. Kevin added that Graco is currently funding some sports efforts, but not in any systematic fashion. Perhaps we need a clearinghouse to provide this structure. Laura mentioned that parents who work at Graco can get $1000 scholarships if they volunteer for any nonprofit. Finally, Jill mentioned that Dick Mammen (MPRB) is willing to host a kick-off lunch to get something going on this topic.

Kurt Nowacki posed the following question: Can Edison Sports Foundation form a subcommittee to allot money to local sports?

Jenny asked if Bottineau Boosters Club could expand their focus. Mike wondered who to talk with there? Bernie Kunza? Dick Anderson? Gold Brick Club? We need sponsoring for teams/shirts. Lion’s Club needs to get back on track—fund NE and not St. Anthony.

Kimberlee believes that Parks & Rec sports should not compete with local school teams. Better coordinated efforts need to take place to prevent this.

Deb Nelson mentioned that kids at the schools are from all over the city, not just NE and North.

Tammy Rusnacko supported the efforts of having programs for fun vs. competition. But for those kids who want to be on competitive sports teams, the community needs to provide options. If competitive teams start younger, these athletes will be competitive in high school. What programs are going to make that happen?

Kimberlee stated that in order to build these strong programs, one needed strong parent involvement with funding.

John Washington stated that the MPS City Conference website captures the whole season of high school sports—which can be useful for parents. http://www.mplscity.org/g5-bin/client.cgi?G5genie=6

When asked about linking to this site, John said that it would be expensive to add a link to other sports team sites.

Liz Wielinski mentioned that the Minneapolis Park & Rec. Board was having new IT developed, which will enable consumers to see what is happening at each field. It will then be easier to tell what is going on city-wide. It is uncertain when this site will be ready to go.

Dean DeGroot believes in the value of developing of “coaches clinics” through community education. If 1-2 classes were offered each quarter throughout the year, it would provide training for community members who may be more willing to coach amateur sports as well as provide a way of linking families with kids to the various sports offerings in the community.

Jamison Rusthoven has a vision of the Edison gym as more of a community gym, opened 24/7/365. He needs help finding ways to utilize it and staff it. He mentioned that his coaches at Edison are very motivated to be involved in the community. They are also open to conducting coaches’ clinics. John mentioned tapping into the Hennepin Youth Sports Foundation—dollars from Twin’s Stadium sources—tap into this, since money is being offered to local sports initiatives.

Mike believes there needs to be more involvement with The Northeaster—coverage of more local sports information. St. Anthony/New Brighton has their own newspaper. Marcia Thomas also stated that there are online options for covering sports. Marcia added that Pillsbury School offers cross-country skiing classes. Skis are donated. This could provide a link to middle school youth.

Key Sports Issues and Action Items:

Funding: coordinating with organizations.
Coordination between school, park, and community.
Need a central sports information website with updated schedules. Who are the contacts? HS schedules are currently available, but not other levels of sports.
Form a committee, which will report to PEN on a quarterly basis.

NE Sports Committee:

Chris Aarseth

Sarah Ackmann

Kimberlee Adams

Jenny Arneson

Jill Davis

Laura Erickson-White

Kurt Nowacki

Angie Powell

Tammy Rusnacko

Jamison Rusthoven

Kris Solz

Marcia Thomas

Larry Umphrey

Paul Werni

Liz Wielinski

Next PEN Meeting: Monday, March 15, 6:30 pm @ Edison Media Center

Agenda items: Sheridan Arts Work Group update, Special Ed./CSO Transitions Report (SEAC Rep.), Friends of NE Youth non-profit formation

Lady Tommies Make History!

2010-03-08T12:39:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our Thomas Edison Varsity Girls’ Basketball Team for winning the first game in our sub sectional semi-final tournament. This is the first time in history that our Girls’ Basketball Team has advanced to the sub-sectional finals. The final score was 63 for Thomas Edison and 60 for Blake.

Dedra Carr had a double double with 11 points and 19 rebounds. Anna Moore led the Lady Tommies with a 27 point, 8 assists and 9 steals…Congratulations!

We had many fans in the stands. Let’s show our school spirit and support our team at tomorrow’s night basketball game. We are playing Washburn and the game starts at 8pm and will be held at Mounds Park Academy High School in St. Paul.
Edison High School will be providing a bus for all basketball fans to and from Mounds Park Academy school in St. Paul for the Girl's Basketball Sub-section finals. The bus will depart at 7 pm from the front steps of Edison High School and will return immediately following the game (roughly 9:15 pm).
The cost is $7.00 for adults and $5.00 for kids - this included the price of admission at the game. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. The bus is limited to the first 40 people to respond via email to Amanda Klann @ Amanda.Klann@mpls.k12.mn.us

Edison Talent Show & "Child Soldiers" Film Benefit

2010-03-07T16:26:00.000-08:00

Talent show starts at 3:30 p.m. and the film showing of “Child Soldiers” starts at 5:00 p.m. This is an educational documentary about child soldiers around the world. The film showing is part of the Human Rights Forum, and the talent show is a service learning project for Ms. Novak's Humanities class. Complimentary popcorn sponsored by EASTSIDE FOOD CO-OP.

Winners of the talent show will move on to a city-wide show – Minneapolis MOSAIC Finals – the MOSAIC event is on Saturday, June 5, 2010 at First Avenue, downtown Minneapolis.

The cost is $3 for the talent show. Proceeds will benefit the "Invisible Children" organization, which builds schools for former child soldiers.

Lady Tommies Varsity Basketball Team Plays in Region 4AA Tournament!

2010-03-06T02:30:00.000-08:00

March 6, 2010, 7:00 pm

Congratulations to Thomas Edison High School’s Girls’ Basketball Team for being the number #1 seed in the West Subsection bracket of the Region 4AA Tournament. We will host only ONE home game for the play-offs (the semi-final game). The game will be played here at Thomas Edison High School on Saturday March 6th at 7 pm. We will be playing either Blake or Columbia Heights.

Show your Tommie Spirit and cheer our team onto vicotry! There will be face painting and prizes will be given away, including the chance to win a 42” flat screen plasma TV. This is a game that you will not want to miss!

Lady Tommies Coach Charlita Williamson wins Coach of the Year Award!
Congratulations Charlita for being selected as coach of the year for the Girls’ Basketball Minneapolis conference. She was nominated by her colleagues for her effortless work on building and leading our Lady Tommie Basketball program.

Northeast Middle School 2/5K Family Fun Day!

2010-02-23T08:58:00.000-08:00

Saturday, March 6, 9:00-12:00
Northeast Middle School (2955 Hayes Street)

Enter the 2K or 5K (starting at 9:00), go swimming, play on the inflatable obstacle course, get your face painted, play a Wii game, buy a book or participate in other wellness activities. Game tickets are $1. Most activities are one or two tickets.

PEN Meeting Monday February 22, 6:30 - 8:00 pm @ Edison

2010-02-15T15:37:00.000-08:00

Last May we met to discuss Sports opportunities for NE youth, both through the public schools and through the parks. Our primary take-away from the meeting was that there exists a gap in competitive sports programming for our kids at the middle school level.

One of the great accomplishments of last year's meeting was providing a place for major stakeholders of this discussion to meet and brainstorm. We want to continue this conversation – we know a main issue is the middle school gap and we want this meeting to be a forum of ideas to address that problem. The discussion will include:

· An introduction of new stakeholders. For example, new NEMS athletic directors

· What has been accomplished in the effort to fill the sports gap?

· What needs to be done to introduce new options for sports still struggling with Middle School gaps?

· How can our local K-8 schools fit within the middle school/high school partnership?

· How can the community assist with the recruitment, publicity, and funding needed to make NE athletic pathways thrive?

This will be the only agenda topic for this month's meeting. It's a big topic and we are dedicated to ending the meeting on time (8:00 pm)! If you have anything to add to this conversation, but do not think you'll be able to attend this meeting, please contact Jenny Arneson either via email (arneson.jenny@gmail.com) or phone (612-789-2697).

Pillsbury, Waite Park and Northeast Middle School Prevail at Check It Out Chess Tournament!

2010-02-14T04:23:00.000-08:00

1st Place, K-3 Division: Pillsbury!

3rd Place, K-3 Division: Waite Park!

2nd Place, 4-6 Division: Pillsbury!

1st Place, 7-8 Division: Northeast Middle School!

Congratulations to all of our Northeast chess masters!

President's Day Ice Skating Party

2010-02-12T10:14:00.000-08:00

All Northeast Schools Ice Skating Celebration

February 15, 2010
3:00 - 5:00 pm

It's an MPS release day, and the kids need to get out of the house! Join us as we celebrate another great year of ice at Logan Park (690 13th Ave NE)

Bring your skates or borrow a pair from Logan to skate one last time this season.

Enjoy free marshmallows and hot dogs roasted on the fire.

Minutes: January 25, 2010

2010-02-11T07:47:00.000-08:00

Attendees: Dean DeGroot (NEMS), Mark Jensen (Edison), Jerry Pedersen (Edison), Jean Neuman (Sheridan), Lloyd Winfield (NEMS), Marcia Thomas (Pillsbury/NEMS), Kate Anderson (Waite Park), Alita Bergan (Waite Park CC), Jill Davis (NEMS/School Board), Liz Wielinski (Parks), Jenny Arneson (Waite Park), Michelle Woster (Pillsbury), Jenn Bennington (Waite Park), Mike Iacarella (Edison), Lupe Castillo, Suzanne Durkacs (Marcy), Tony Schrepfer (Edison), Bridget Altmann (Edison), Troy Wellington (Edison), Donna Andrews (Marcy), & Pamela Vertina (Edison).

MPS Board Update: School Board Director, Jill Davis

Jill told the group about some details families should consider regarding Changing School Options (CSO). No major time changes for kids in NE, except that all K-5 and K-8 programs will have 15 minutes added to their school day. Transportation changes will occur for Pillsbury and Waite Park, with families receiving transportation to their community schools only, depending on where they live. Families that live north of Lowry will be bused to Waite Park; those that live south of Lowry will be bused to Pillsbury. Jill suggested that principals collaborate with one another to make this transition as smooth as possible rather than be competitive in these efforts.

Pam Vertina asked about the impacts of CSO on ELL. Apparently, no clear details have been provided on this issue but should be shortly.

Suzanne Durkacs inquired about letters being sent to 8th grade families informing them of where their children are going next school year to high school. Jill was unaware about when/how the letters would be sent by the District but was going to get clarification.

Edison has recently been approved for offering IB, which is good news for the community. There have been some special education program shifts made as a result of CSO. Life Skills will be located at Edison. Principals can exert influence over special education programs, but the community also has a say in programming.

New schools initiatives. Jill mentioned that February 9^th is when the Board will vote to consider recommending the start-up of two schools to start for the 2010-11 school year: Pierre Bottineau French Immersion School will start as a K-1 program and eventually become a K-5 school, located in North Minneapolis. When asked why the District is interested in French Immersion, Jill explained that similar programs in the country have done well at reducing the achievement gap. The other school considered for 2010-11 is the MN School of Science Charter School. It will start as a K-6 and eventually become at K-12. This program still needs to apply with the State of MN before it becomes operational. These schools' focus will be the lowest performing 25% of kids in the district.

The self-governed Art School planned to be housed at Edison High School is going to be provided with more time to develop math and science resources. It could possibly be approved to start in 2011, if all the details are completed and in place.

What’s Happening at Our Schools?—Representatives from each NE school provided a brief update based on the following points:

· Key activities/initiatives/changes this year

· Challenges & concerns

· Ways PEN can help out (1-3 wishes/needs)

Suzanne Durcaks (parent) and Donna Andrews (Principal) provided an update on Marcy Open: Currently, the school has 630 kids, which was described as “packed” and provides “Open” education and highlights arts integration, its international peace site theme, great fundraising opportunities, Labyrinth (an Artist-in-Residence program), Project Success, Minneapolis Kids, and Community Education. The school also has connections with five colleges, with student teaching opportunities. Marcy offers music opportunities as well, including band, rock band, and orchestra.

Wishes for Marcy: More space—like a parking lot (pretty land-locked) and having a greater partnership with Edison.

Jean Neuman (Principal - Sheridan Arts Magnet), told of the various activities happening at the school. Although Sheridan is comprised of mostly Northside kids, efforts are underway to establish some connection with Edison. Jean told of February being “I want to Read” month, with February 8^th being Parent Involvement Day. Arts integration and service learning opportunities are available at the school.

Dreams/wishes for Sheridan include: having local performance artists provide theatrical experiences for the school and community. Also, on a practical note, having more navy blue/Kelly green uniforms available for kids would be nice.

Marcia Thomas (parent - Pillsbury) provided an update about this soon-to-be community school. Their chess team won local City awards, and students took part in a Lego League tournament. One of the GEMS (Girls in engineering, math, and science) teams won a regional competition, and a 5^th grade teacher won a learning fellowship in science education.

Wishes: boots, mittens, gloves, especially for younger grades as well as snow pants, new or gently used.

Kate Anderson (staff - Waite Park Community School) told of the various activities/efforts provided by their PTA. Hi-5 is now available at WP, and data indicates that 75% of kids who start Hi-5 stay throughout the elementary school grades. Kate told of some parents being rather sad about the boundary changes at WP, which will impact a number of kids/families. She shared information about math and reading programming occurring.

Wishes for WP: perhaps an information packet could be created which highlights programming at WP, NE Middle, and Edison HS. Otherwise, having all 3 schools available at the school showcase downtown Minneapolis would necessitate greater recruitment. Help the community deal with boundary issues, be an advocate, and assist with marketing efforts.

Lloyd Winfield (Assistant Principal - Northeast Middle School): NEMS will continue to have a 9:30 start time, offering a variety of sports, with the possibility of a wrestling program to start. A fundraiser was recently completed, raising sufficient funds for the spring musical (“Seussical”). Band offerings have expanded and there is now choir available. NEMS has a debate team; some discussion was in regard to partnering with Edison in debate competitions. A new parent group was established this school year and Mr. Winfield reminded the group that NEMS has the only middle years IB program in NE.

Wishes for NEMS: Money, equipment, signage, and PR. There was a suggestion of possible literature drops in the blocks near NEMS, with the hope that the community better understands the great programs and opportunities that exist at the school.

Jerry Pedersen (Asst. Principal), Pamela Vertina (staff), & Bridgett Altmann (staff) gave an overview of happenings at Edison High School. Fundraising opportunities have emerged at the school, with several events scheduled. Several new features at Edison include: recently certified as IB program, a drum line is now in place, efforts are being made to bolster the arts, with 4 Artists-in-Residence in place. A human rights initiative started this school year, whereby several public events have and will take place. One event happening in April is about the Holocaust with a survivor providing insights to the participants; students gain service hours by taking part in these forums. A talent show will also take place. Later in the spring, Edison will be showcasing their first musical theatre production in years: “Bye Bye Birdie”. The Morris Community Players will also be collaborating with Edison on productions. During Art-A-Whirl, Edison’s parking lot will be a Park & Ride stop.

Wishes for Edison: Art props, helping kids with scripts for the musical, establishing more arts in-roads (e.g., NEMAA--) http://www.nemaa.org/, and community support in PR for productions.

Future Considerations/next meeting:

PEN will meet on Monday, February 22 at 6:30 – 8 PM at the Edison media center. The agenda: Revisiting sports opportunities in Northeast: coaches, athletic directors, park board people, and other interested community members will be present.

Celebrate African American History Month!

2010-02-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Thomas Edison High School and the African American Cultural Awareness Club would like to invite you to share with them in their celebration of African American History Month. There will be a full slate of activities, including a Film Festival (see poster above), a Poster Contest, a Food Drive for the earthquake survivors of Haiti, African American Parent Involvement Day (Febraury 8, 2010), and a Speech Contest (see poster below) open to students from all high schools held at Edison on February 25, 2010.

Come celebrate our young people and African American heritage at Thomas Edison High School!

Book Swap at Waite Park Community School!

2010-02-03T12:53:00.000-08:00

Bring a book in, take a book home!

Friday February 5, 2010

6:30 - 8:00 pm

Waite Park Gym

Book Swap Activities include:

Beginning on Monday February 1, students bring gently used books to their classrooms. These should be children’s books appropriate for K-8^th grade.
Each classroom will collect these gently used books up until Friday February 5^th.
The classroom that collects the most books will receive a fabulous prize from Dairy Queen!
On Friday February 5th, 6:30-8:00pm come to Waite Park's Gym and check out the book swap tables for books that are new to you! Take home and enjoy!
Snacks and beverages will be provided.

Sponsored by Waite Park Community School PTA.

Thomas Edison High School Fundraiser

2010-01-27T10:21:00.000-08:00

It's a Home Game!

Pre-Game starts at 6:45 p.m.

Tuesday, February 23rd at 7:00 p.m.

Boys' Varsity Basketball - Edison vs. Southwest

Bring your friends, family and neighbors!!!

Adults $6.50, studetns $4.50 and children 7 and under are free!

Attractions

Watch an action-packed basketball game while supporting Zone 1 schools (half of your ticket price will be donated to the Zone 1 school of your choice)

Chance to win a 42" flat screen plasma TV by making the half court shot

Chance to win gift certificates for the Modern Cafe, sen yai sen lek, Lily's and Marino's by making a 3 point shot

Performances by Edison's Dance Team, Rock Band and Drum Line

Half-time to be MC'd by Kevin Reich, Edison class of '85 and Ward 1 City Councilman

Special pre-game performance by the Edison Alumni Band

Game kick-off with Dan Kuch's trumpet rendition of the Star Spangled Banner

Other opportunities to win prizes, get your face painted and rub elbows with local celebrities!

Agenda: January 25, 2010

2010-01-20T22:40:00.000-08:00

Monday, January 25, 2010
6:30 - 8:00 pm
Edison Media Center

What’s Happening at Our Schools—Representatives from each school (Edison, NE Middle, Sheridan, Marcy, Pillsbury, & Waite Park) will provide a brief update (50-60 mn)

* Key activities/initiatives/changes this year
* Challenges & concerns
* Ways PEN can help (1-3 wishes/needs)

MPS Board Update: School Board Director, Jill Davis— (10-20 mns.)

* Changing school options
* New schools initiatives

Other Issues—(5 mns.)

* Should we revisit the idea of a community theatre initiative?

Next PEN Meeting:
Monday, February 22, 2010
6:30 - 8:00 pm, Edison Media Center

TOPIC: Athletic Opportunities for NE Kids

Winter Warm-Up Fundraiser for Northeast Middle School

2010-01-18T23:01:00.000-08:00

Thursday, January 21, 7:00 - 11:00 pm
Rushford Hall, 2223 Central Ave NE
$25 (tax deductable)

...to benefit NEMS Theatre program! Now in its’ 3rd year, this growing program has doubled its productions and student participation. A record 75 students expressed interest in being involved with the musical, making it one of the most popular after school activities. This year we will produce both a play and musical, involving over 100 students on and back stage.

The Fall Play, The Odyssey, showcased students’ ability to tell a moving story from one of the oldest pieces of classical literature. The musical, Seussical Jr. takes us to the other end of the spectrum to the colorful and imaginative world of Dr. Seuss.

While the theatre program enjoys support from staff, volunteers and community support, it still takes money. Middle School needs to raise $10,000 to make this opportunity a reality for it’s’ students.

We are pleased to announce our Headline Entertainment, Whiskey Mondays, NEMS staff member Sean Baldwin’s American Band!

Doors open at 7:00, Silent Auction bidding closes at 9:00. Donations are still being accepted for Food & Beverage and Silent Auction items. Please contact Kimberlee Adams 612-668-1483 for more information.

Edison Basketball Fundraiser for All Zone 1 Schools!

2010-01-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

Would you like to have a chance to win a 36” (maybe even larger) flat screen T.V? Come join in the fun while supporting your neighborhood schools by attending the following basketball games:

Mark your calendars:

Tuesday, January 19th at 7:00pm: Girls’ Varsity vs. Henry at Thomas Edison High School

Tuesday, February 23rd at 7:00pm: Boys’ Varsity vs. Southwest at Thomas Edison High School.

Half the cost of your ticket goes towards Thomas Edison High School and the other half of your ticket goes to the school of your choice in Zone 1.

There will be quite a show during half-time. Come see the Thomas Edison dance team and see our very own robot deliver the basketball for the half court shot that, if made successfully, the winner will get a new flat screen T.V. Other prizes will be given away throughout the evening.

These are two games that you will not want to miss! Bring your family, friends, neighbors, and anyone else who would like to join us for these action packed evenings.

2010-01-08T01:38:00.000-08:00

Thomas Edison High School is now an official International Baccalaureate World School! Edison has received their official authorization certificate from the International Baccalaureate Home Office in Geneva, Switzerland for the 11th and 12th grade Diploma Programmme.

Edison currently has 12 teachers trained in the IB Diploma Programme and they are incorporating IB methodology into their current classes. Edison staff are in the process of recruiting 10th grade students to be included in the 2010-11 official first class.

To learn more, please visit the official IB website at http://www.ibo.org/school/004851/

Northeast Middle School's Fall Play: The Odyssey

2010-01-07T13:18:00.000-08:00

The Northeast Middle School Fall Play, The Odyssey, showcased students’ ability to tell a moving story from one of the oldest pieces of classical literature. The upcoming Gala Fundraiser will benefit the NEMS Theater Program, which has become increasingly active and popular among students at the school.

NEMS Winter Warm-Up Fundraiser will be held on January 21, 7:00 pm at Rushford Hall (Italian-American Club), 2223 Central Ave. NE. Tickets are $25 (tax deductable) and will be available at the door.

Wondering what all the talk about CSO is about?

2010-01-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

Changing School Options (CSO) is a Minneapolis Public Schools initiative that creates three regional zones for transportation. The North/Northeast area of Minneapolis is in Zone 1. (Maps are available on the MPS website under "Transitioning for 2010-11"). With the exception of a few citywide options, students will attend an elementary, middle and high school in their zone. This three zone transportation model reduces transportation costs, retains choice for families since each one offers at least three magnet options in addition to a community school and allows students to attend schools closer to home.

Each zone will offer K-8 students access to the following magnet programs: International Baccalaureate (IB: Elizabeth Hall & Northeast Middle School) ; Teaching philosophy: Open or Montessori (Open: Marcy); Spanish Dual Immersion (Emerson); Curricular: Arts and Science (Arts: Sheridan). Each zone will offer 9-12 students access to comprehensive high school programming. Edison and Henry are the community highs schools for Zone 1.

Families with children enrolled in a citywide special education or English Language Learner program will continue to receive transportation across zones. Based on the state's open enrollment law, families still have the option to enroll at any school in the city provided there is space available and they provide their own transportation. Students currently attending magnet, middle or high schools outside of their home attendance area or zone will have the option of grandfathering, or being guaranteed a seat in their current school, but must provide their own transportation.

For more information: Transitions office - 612.668.0478. Zone 1 parent contacts: DPAC Area A Chairs, Todd Bennington (Waite Park) and Celeste Brown (Parkview), and Zone 1 Community Liaison, Lynne Crockett.

Each month parents of all Zone 1 schools are invited to attend the Zone 1 (Area A) Parent Advisory Council Meeting. These meetings are held to share current information about District issues and policies as well as to collect ideas and concerns from parents to take to the District at DPAC meetings. Area A meetings are the third Wednesday of every month at a different Area A school each month. The next meeting will be at Parkview on January 27, 2010. Please check the DPAC Meeting Schedule website for the dates and locations of future Area A meetings (the February meeting will be at Waite Park).

New Year's Eve Fun for a Great Cause!

2009-12-17T05:24:00.000-08:00

89.3 The Current and Vega Productions Present:

2010: The Year We Make Contact -

A Benefit for the Music Programs at Edison High School in Minneapolis

Marriott City Center Grand Ballroom

12.31.2009

An evening of music and entertainment featuring...

Solid Gold
Freddie Fresh
Heatbox
The Histronic

Massive light show, aerial performers, live performance painters and a balloon drop at midnight!

Doors: 7 pm
Show: 9 pm
18+

General Admission Tickets: $25
VIP: $75 or FREE with approved instrument donation
*trade used instruments for VIP passes at any Schmitt Music location

VIP includes: complimentary horderves, champagne and beer, meet-and-greet with Solid Gold, special late night after party with DJ Freddy Fresh (1 am - 2 am), and more!

To purchase tickets online, click HERE

For more information, click HERE

PEN: Public Education Northeast

Area A Parent Meeting Jan. 30, 2012, 6 - 7:30 pm @ Farview Park, 621 29th Ave N

Northeast Middle School Winter Warm Up Benefit, Jan. 20, 7 pm @ Grace Center

See "Smokey Joe's Cafe" @ Edison, Dec. 14-16, 7:00 pm

Soup with the Supe @ Northeast MIddle School - Dec. 8, 6:00 pm

Area A Parent Meeting Nov. 28, 6 pm @ Edison

Congratulations Edison Football Coach Mike Minnema: Minneapolis Conference Coach of the Year!

6th Annual NE School Showcase - Sat. Nov. 12 - 11:00am @ Edison Community Gym

Northeast Middle School Football Team City Champions!

Traveling Basketball Comes to Northeast! Tryouts Sat. Oct. 27 @ Bottineau

MEA Basketball Camp for kids ages 5-14

Edison High School Goes Solar

Students and Staff at Pillsbury Unveil Redesigned Library!

Zone 1/Area A Parent Meeting: Monday Sept. 26, 6 - 7:30 pm @ Logan Park

Enrollment Update - MPS Census Data available & Area A Meeting Scheduled

Edison Homecoming TONIGHT: 9/9/11 @ 5:00 pm vs. North High's Polars

NE All Community School BBQ Sponsors *Thank You!*

Hello Dolly Auditions - Morris Park Players @ Edison - 9/7-8 Adults, Teens & Children Invited to Audition

5th Annual All NE Community School BBQ, Aug. 25, 3-8 pm @ Edison

2nd "Big E" Ad Features NE Community/Edison Partnership in This Week's Northeaster

NE Community BBQ Coordinates with NE MPS School Open Houses to Celebrate New School Year! Aug. 25, 3 - 8 pm @ Edison (1700 22nd Av NE)

MPS encourages families to attend Student Placement Open House: Aug. 3

Please complete this NOC Parent Survey - 5 Minutes to Help Our Mpls Schools

Pre-School Art Experience @ Logan Park next week: July 25-28

Important Community Meeting on MSP Enrollment in NE Mpls: TONIGHT 6/22/11, 6-8 @ Windom Park

Welcome Chevy Chase to the Neighborhood @ the Edison HS Green Community Schools Kickoff!

Help MPS NE Schools by eating fantastic NE food!

NE Community Bands Together to Support Edison

Waite Park Spring Gala & Silent Auction: 4/9/11 @ Eastside Neighborhood Services

Ice Cream Social & "Footloose" @ Edison, Thursday, March 17, 6:00 pm

Lady Tommies Tournament Begins Thursday, March 3, 7pm @ Edison!

Elementary Night @ Lady Tommies Basketball Feb. 18 7:00 pm

PEN Meeting Monday Feb. 7, 6:30 pm @ Edison Media Center

Middle School Night @ Lady Tommie Basketball Game, 1/27, 7 pm

Area A Family Meeting, 1/27, 6-8pm @ Sheridan - 1201 University Ave NE

NEMS Winter Warm-Up, Friday 1/21 @ Rushford Hall

NEMS Int'l Night of Sharing, Thurs., 12/9 5:30 pm

Pre-Game Fundraising Event at Sen Yai Sen Lek, 12/2, 4:45 pm

Morris Park Players' "Annie" at Edison Nov. 19 & 20

The Showcase is Coming!

Kids Vote Minneapolis!

Area A (Zone 1) Meeting Thursday Oct. 28 6:30 pm @ PACER Center

Fundraiser: Wednesday, October 20 5-7 pm

Dedication of Outdoor Musical Instruments at Jackson Square Park Friday, Sept. 24

NE School Showcase Planning Meeting TONIGHT 6:30 @ Edison!

Inviting Un-Enrolled Students to "Come Home to Minneapolis"

4th Annual Edison BBQ a HUGE Event!

4th Annual Edison Open House/NE Community BBQ

Edison Junior Achievement Honors

Sustainable Transformation for Our Failing Schools

MPS Kids Really Can Eat Well!

Art in the Park @ Windom

Art in the Park @ Logan

2010 Edison Tommie Youth Football Clinic

New Schools Community Meeting - June 23

Northeast Parade: June 22, 2010

PEN Meeting - Monday, June 14, 2010, 6:30 pm @ Edison

Leadership at Thomas Edison High School Stabilizes!

Congressman Keith Ellison Hosts Achievement Gap Discussion

Northeast Middle School Beautification Day - May 15

Sake Brewing Demonstration & Silent Auction Fundraiser for MPS

Zone 1 - Area A Parent Meeting

Audubon Park Spring WingDing this Weekend!

Bye Bye Birdie at Edison This Weekend!

MPS headquarters vote rescheduled

Edison "Turnaround" Community Meeting

Minutes:March 15, 2010

MPS to Host Informational Meeting on District Headquarters Proposals

Northeast Middle School Presents Seussical Jr.

Agenda: March 15, 2010

Minutes: February 22, 2010

Lady Tommies Make History!

Edison Talent Show & "Child Soldiers" Film Benefit

Lady Tommies Varsity Basketball Team Plays in Region 4AA Tournament!

Northeast Middle School 2/5K Family Fun Day!

PEN Meeting Monday February 22, 6:30 - 8:00 pm @ Edison

Pillsbury, Waite Park and Northeast Middle School Prevail at Check It Out Chess Tournament!

President's Day Ice Skating Party

Minutes: January 25, 2010

Celebrate African American History Month!

NE All Community School BBQ Sponsors Thank You!