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Message ExpressMora Public Schools March 2025

DistrictSuperintendent: Dan Voce320-679-6200danvoce@moraschools.org Executive Assistant & Finance Assistant:Kelly Fischer320-679-6200 Ext. 7205kellyfischer@moraschools.orgHuman Resources Coordinator:Victoria Holman320-679-6200 ext. 7508victoriaholman@moraschools.org Business Manager:Eric Bartusch320-679-6200 ext. 5520 ericbartusch@moraschools.org Payroll & A/R Coordinator:Paula Janousek320-679-6200 ext. 7509paulajanousek@moraschools.org A/P Coordinator & District Office Assistant:Julie Belisle320-679-6200 ext. 7502juliebelisle@moraschools.orgActivities & Community Education Director:Charles Whitbred320-679-6200 ext. 7503cwhitbred@moraschools.orgAD/CE/AR Coordinator:Elisa Cosgriff320-679-6200 ext. 7501elisacosgriff@moraschools.orgBuilding & Grounds/Health & Safety Coordinator/Transportation Director: Chip Brandt320-679-6200 ext. 7504cbrandt@moraschools.orgDistrict School Nurse:Shauna Cronk, R.N320-679-6200 ext. 7018shaunacronk@moraschools.org Nutrition Director:Heather Stutz320-679-6200 ext. 5015nutritionmora@moraschools.orgDirector of Technology:Shane Knutson320-679-6200 ext. 5107sknutson@moraschools.orgMARSS Coordinator/Synergy Administrator/Social Media:Briana Lukenbill320-679-6200 ext. 5331brilukenbill@moraschools.org Director of Teaching & Learning:Darcy Qual320-679-6200 ext. 5306dqual@moraschools.orgDistrict Office118 9th StreetMora, MN 55051320-679-6200Mora High SchoolGrades 7-12118 9th StreetMora, MN 55051320-679-6200Mora ALCGrades 9-12118 9th StreetMora, MN 55051320-679-6200Mora ElementaryGrades PreK-6200 9th StreetMora, MN 55051320-679-6200FAX: 320-679-6258Mora Public Schools Contact InformationSpecial Education Coordinator:Jenny Berry320-679-600 Ext. 4006jberry@moraschools.orgRed Rover Administrator:Victoria Holman320-679-6200 ext. 7508victoriaholman@moraschools.orgParaEducator Testing Proctor:Briana Lukenbill320-679-6200 ext. 5331brilukenbill@moraschools.org Transportation/Bus GarageTransportation Assistant:Gayle Stassen320-679-6200 ext. 4255 gstassen@moraschools.orgHigh SchoolPrincipal:Brent Nelson320-679-6200 ext. 7006bnelson@moraschools.orgAssistant Principal:Nick Bakke320-679-6200 ext. 7004nbakke@moraschools.orgAdministrative Assistants:Grace Kubesh320-679-6200 ext. 7003gkubesh@moraschools.org Mary Schwendeman320-679-6200 ext. 7002maryschwendeman@moraschools.org High School Receptionist:Noelle Niskanen320-679-6200 ext. 7001nniskanen@moraschools.org Guidance Office:Sarah Ellstrom320-679-6200 ext. 7008sellstrom@moraschools.org Emmy Kringen320-679-6200 ext. 7007emilykringen@moraschools.org Student Services:Jodi Bakke320-679-6200 ext. 7012jbakke@moraschools.org Health Office:Judy Wolf320-679-6200 ext. 7017judywolf@moraschools.orgElementaryPrincipal:Randy Qual320-679-6200 ext. 4001rqual@moraschools.org Assistant Principal:Jennifer Fussy320-679-6200 ext. 4005jfussy@moraschools.org Administrative Assistants:Lane Schafer320-679-6200 ext. 4004lschafer@moraschools.orgKaty Leach320-679-6200 ext. 4002kleach@moraschools.orgCounselors:Jackelyn Bekius320-679-6200 ext. 4313jackelynbekius@moraschools.orgTatum Reitter320-679-6200 ext. 4307tatumreitter@moraschools.orgHealth Office:Alicia Sandell320-679-6200 ext. 4007aliciasandell@moraschools.orgEarly Childhood Family Education Coordinator:Carrie Sell320-679-6200 ext. 4999csell@moraschools.orgDistrict Title IX Officer:Charles Whitbred320-679-6200 ext. 7503cwhitbred@moraschools.org District Human Rights Coordinator:Dan Voce, Superintendent320-679-6200 danvoce@moraschools.org Staff Development Coordinator:Jackie Stevens320-679-6200 ext. 6205jstevens@morashcools.orgTitle I Coordinator:Randy Qual320-679-6200 ext. 4001rqual@moraschools.org District 504/Title II Coordinators:Brent Nelson - High School320-679-6200 ext. 7006bnelson@moraschools.orgRandy Qual- Elementary320-679-6200 ext. 4001rqual@moraschools.orgALCDirector:Karen Felger320-679-6200 ext. 5399kfelger@moraschools.org Secretary:Natalie Jensen320-679-6200 ext. 5300nataliejensen@moraschools.org

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Youth Art Month is celebrated in March every year. This month isset aside to celebrate and promote arts and arts educationacross the country. The month is specifically for the visual arts,and as the name suggests, is geared toward children of all ages.Youth Art Month came together to emphasize the importance ofvisual arts for children. Thousands of schools, art educators, and children across age groups participate in activities around Youth Art Month.Youth Art Month

In this, the 100th year of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, 24 fifth and sixth graders gathered onthe stage of the high school auditorium to compete in the annual Mora Elementary Spelling Bee.When he finished correctly spelling the word “skeptical,” Mora fifth-grader Jude Rue secured firstplace, advancing to the Regional Spelling Bee on February 11 at St. Cloud State University. Rue’sclassmate Marcie Kunkle finished as first runner-up in the Mora Bee and served as the school’salternate in the event Rue could not attend the Regional Bee.Students qualified for the Mora Bee by earning top scores on a written spelling test given to all fifthand sixth graders in early January. The thirty-word tests were administered by grade-level readingteachers, who collected and corrected tests to build a list of potential Bee competitors. Generally,students who correctly spelled around 20 words put themselves in the conversation for who wouldmake the final cut.The top two dozen spellers were invited to compete in the January 23 Mora Bee, and their familieswere invited to attend the competition. Classmates attended the Bee, too; all the fifth and sixth-grade classes poured into the auditorium, combining with families to fill the floor seats and give theevent an air of grandeur.Round by round, in random order, students were challenged with words from the 2025 Scrippsschool competition word list. Five at a time, students approached the podium to attempt the correctspelling of a given word. Students were allowed to write the word, ask for definitions, request asentence using the word, and ask for repeated pronunciations of the word. When ready, studentswould say the word, spell it, say it again, and wait for a decision from the three-judge panel on theaccuracy of the spelling. Any discrepancy between a student’s spelling and the actual spellingearned an immediate dismissal from the competition. When all students had taken a turn at thepodium, a round was considered complete. Remaining students’ names were shuffled, and theprocess repeated.Reporter, Darren LukenbillRue said he did some studying before the Mora Bee, “But Istudied a lot more before the Regional Bee!” His extra practicewas worth it; competing in a field of 5th-8th graders, Rueadvanced to the fourth round, where he was tripped up by theword “equivalent.” “I said an ‘e’ instead of an ‘a’,” he lamented.“I knew right away I had said it wrong, but it was too late.” Still,he felt proud of his 12th-place finish out of 38 competitors.And, for those scoring at home, the winning word of the daywas “honorarium.”In addition to advancing to the next round of competition, Ruewas awarded a VISA gift card courtesy of First Citizens Bank ofMora. The Mora Bee was organized by elementary interventionteacher Jamie Wright, who extended special thanks to thejudging panel of Leah Lick, Chris Kelash, and Chana Lennox.

Each new year brings an opportunity to reflect and renew our commitment toourselves and the work we do every day. At Mora Public Schools and in publicschools across the state of Minnesota, the new year provides us with a chance torefocus our efforts on our core mission: educating our students. Superintendent’s MessageDan VoceSuperintendentdanvoce@moraschools.org(320) 679-6200Check out thegreat thingshappening atMora Schools!School Board Special ElectionThe Mora School Board will hold a special election on Tuesday, May 13th, to fill avacant board seat. The School Board has appointed Matt Heggerness to fill thevacant school board seat until the special election is held and a board member iselected. There will be more information regarding the special election, such asfiling for candidacy, voting instructions, and polling times and locations, in theKanabec County Times and on our district website. If you have any questions,you can contact the Mora School District Office directly at 320-679-6200. The Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA) has launched an initiativenamed "One Voice" with the purpose of unifying all of our efforts by comingtogether to support our students' education. Together, by helping our studentsand our schools, we are helping create the future for our students andcommunity. A future that prepares our students for future success in a career,college, or to serve our country. As you can see, our future depends on all of us, focused on helping our studentsfeel supported and connected as they journey through school in preparation forlife after school. Together, we can be “one voice” as we help students succeedand bring a bright future to our community. Thank you for supporting ourstudents and public education. Sincerely,Dan Voce, Superintendent, Mora Public Schools.

CHECK OUTCHECK OUTCHECK OUTOUROUROURSTRATEGICSTRATEGICSTRATEGICPLANNINGPLANNINGPLANNINGThe school district is in the process of selling itsexcess property on the former Mora High Schoolsite near Kanabec County Court House. TheDistrict has accepted an offer on the excessproperty that is located south of Maple Avenue,which was formerly the parking lots for the highschool. There has been interest in the excessproperty north of Maple Avenue that sits on theshore of Lake Mora. All of the property is withinthe City of Mora and is zoned residential andmixed for future development. We continued our work on creating and updating a comprehensive strategic planwhich will provide our school district and stakeholders a roadmap to the future ofMora Public Schools. It is an effort to keep our school district moving forward andcontinually striving to improve our outcomes and opportunities for our students. Over the past several months, we have gathered feedback from our students,families, and staff to help us focus on what these stakeholders desire on a dailybasis from Mora Public Schools. Our Strategic Planning Team has reviewed andrefined all of the feedback from these stakeholder groups to establish commondesired daily experiences expected from Mora Public Schools. As we continue with our strategic planning process the goal will be to provide ourschool district and stakeholders a 3 year operational plan to meet the needs,desires, and aspirations of our students, families, and staff members. Our roadmap will encompass our mission, vision, core values, and desired dailyexperiences, providing a clear roadmap for success for every student. Please visit our website at moraschools.org and click the “Strategic Planning” linkfor updates.

Elementary UpdateRandy QualPrincipalrqual@moraschools.org(320) 679-6200Ext. 4001As educators, we see firsthand the impact of consistent boundarieson children's development. While it's natural to want to provide ourkids with everything they desire, saying "yes" all the time canactually hinder their growth. Children need to hear the word "no" –both at home and in the classroom – to develop essential life skills.Why “No” Matters“No” at homeHearing "no" teaches children crucial lessons about:Respecting Limits: "No" helps children understand that the worlddoesn't revolve around them. There are rules, limitations, andsocietal expectations they need to learn to navigate.Developing Self-Regulation: Learning to cope with disappointmentand frustration is a vital life skill. "No" helps children build resilienceand emotional intelligence.Understanding Consequences: When children experience theconsequences of pushing boundaries, they learn to make betterchoices in the future.Appreciating What They Have: Constant gratification can lead to asense of entitlement. "No" helps children value what they have andunderstand the importance of patience and delayed gratification.“No” In the classroomParents, you are your child's first teacher. Setting clear boundaries at home lays thefoundation for their behavior in school and beyond. Here are some tips:Be Consistent: If you say "no" to something, stick to it. Don't give in to repeatedquestioning or tantrums.Offer Alternatives: Instead of a flat-out "no," provide choices within acceptablelimits. "No, you can't have candy now, but you can have an apple or some grapes."Explain Your Reasoning: Help your child understand why you're saying "no." "No,we can't buy that toy today because we're saving money for something else."Model Respect: Show your child how to handle "no" gracefully. When theyencounter a boundary, demonstrate appropriate responses.Our school teachers can tell very quickly which students have been told"no" in their toddler years and which students have not been told "no"consistently. Temper tantrums ensue in our early childhood andkindergarten classrooms much more frequently for these students thanothers. In the classroom, "no" is essential for maintaining a safe andproductive learning environment. It helps support clear expectations andallows fairness and consistency in the application of rules and schoolprocedures. Saying "no" isn't about being mean or controlling. It's about providingchildren with the structure and guidance they need to thrive in public, inschool, and their future careers. By setting clear boundaries at home andschool, we equip them with the skills to become responsible, resilient, andsuccessful individuals.Why chIldren need boundarIes at home and schoolWhy chIldren need boundarIes at home and school

Jennifer Fussy Assistant Principaljfussy@moraschools.org(320) 679-6200Ext. 4005When does a student visit the Reset Room at Mora Elementary?At school, the goal is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for everystudent. Our staff proactively prevents misbehavior and acknowledges positive choices.This includes teaching our school-wide behavior expectations and using preventativereminders of those expectations at the time.If a student is not following an expectation and the behavior disrupts the learningenvironment, our staff are trained to intervene. When a behavior is “minor” (ex.,interrupting the teacher), staff attempt to redirect the behavior in a positive/proactivemanner. An example would be using non-verbal cues or having a private one-on-oneconversation with the student to problem-solve the behavior. If the “minor” misbehaviorpersists or leads to a “major” behavior (ex., a safety concern or major disruption to thelearning environment), staff direct the student to go to the Reset Room to problem solve.What are the goals of the Reset Room:Help the student understand how their behavior affects others.Teach them to learn from their mistakes.Give them a chance to take responsibility and make amends.Welcome them back to class and move forward.What happens in the Reset Room?When students arrive, they are greeted with empathy and directed to sit at a desk.If agitated, students are given time to calm down before engaging in processing.Once calm, students complete a reflection sheet asking questions about the behaviorthat led to the referral. A staff member will review the sheet with them and ensurethey are prepared to re-enter class and make amends.Staff walk the student to class. The student delivers private apologies to the affectedstaff and/or students, fostering closure and understanding.Who will communicate with parents/guardians?The teacher who referred the student will contact parents/guardians about the incident byphone or email.Does the Reset Room always work the same way?:If a student is repeatedly sent to the Reset Room for “minor” misbehaviors or “major”misbehavior, the work that they do in the Reset Room becomes more robust. For example,the student may complete additional reflection sheets and practice social skills with staff,complete a video learning module, or prepare a poster or presentation about behaviorexpectations.If the school team observes a pattern where the student engages in unexpected behaviorto avoid school work, the team will instruct the student to complete work in the ResetRoom.In some cases, school staff may contact parents/guardians and invite them to a conferenceto make plans to assist the student with making positive changes in their behavior.Is the Reset Room utilized for other student needs? Yes, with staff permission, students can…Access the Reset Room for a place to take a break or have a check-in with an adult.Access the Reset Room if they need a quiet place to complete their work.Access the Reset Room if they need another adult to help problem solve student-to-student issues.If you have questions about the Reset Room process, please contact: Randy Qual, Mora Elementary Principal, 320-679-6241, rqual@moraschools.orgJennifer Fussy, Mora Elementary Assistant Principal, 320-679-6203, jfussy@moraschools.org

As spring approaches, we want to partner with families on their child’s upcoming academicassessments to ensure your child is well-prepared and confident. Your support plays a crucial rolein their success. We encourage you to discuss the upcoming tests with your child and emphasizethe importance of doing their best.To help your child perform at their peak, please consider the following helpful tips:Sleep is Key: Ensure yourchild gets a good night’ssleep (at least 8 hours) thenight before each test. Restis essential for focus andmemory.Fuel Their Bodies: Anutritious breakfast is vitalfor brainpower. Make sureyour child eats a healthybreakfast on test days.Punctuality Matters: Pleaseensure your child arrives atschool on time. This helpsminimize distractions andallows them to settle inbefore the test begins.Positive Expectations: Talkto your child about thetests and encourage themto put forth their besteffort. Let them know youbelieve in them.Scratch Paper is a Friend:Scratch paper will beprovided for all tests. Pleaseencourage your child to useit! Working problems out onpaper can help avoid simplemistakes that can occurwhen doing mentalcalculations.Read Carefully: Emphasizethe importance of readingevery question and alldirections carefully beforeanswering. Rushing can leadto unnecessary errors.Take Your Time: Remindyour child to take their time and work through each question thoughtfully.Rushing can sometimes lead to careless mistakes.Offer Encouragement: Provide your child with asmuch positiveencouragement as possible.Your support and belief inthem can make a significantdifference.We appreciate your partnership in supporting your child's academic success. If you have anyquestions, please don't hesitate to contact your child’s school.MN Questions Tool Link- Explore questions by grade, year, and content area here!Keys to Success: Helpful Tips for Academic Assessment Achievement

Early Childhood Website

Santa’s WorkshopReporter, Darren LukenbillSanta received a late-season boost on December 18, whenMora Elementary’s kindergarten classes arrived at hisworkshop during the final week of school before winterbreak.Each year, the Career/Tech Education classes at Mora HighSchool turn their northern suite of classrooms into the NorthPole, welcoming over 100 kids to Santa’s Workshop. Thekindergarteners enjoy a petting zoo, cookie decorating (andeating!), some holiday coloring, and visits from well-knowncharacters, including Mr. Grinch, Buddy the Elf, and theGingerbread Man, before helping Santa’s elves on theproduction line. Industrial Arts instructor Josh Norby has hosted sixworkshops now, the first when his daughter Paisley was inkindergarten. “She told me I should have her whole classcome to the shop to make a Christmas project,” Norby says,adding that his initial response was…not enthusiastic. Butdaughter persisted, Dad considered, and eventually, Paisleyand her classmates made wooden snowmen on their visit toNorby’s shop in the old high school.Norby invited Paisley’s class to Santa’s Workshop as shemoved up in grades but transitioned it back to kindergartenfor his son’s class to experience. Now, all kindergartenclasses attended an event that has become magical in thenew high school. Santa’s Workshop is a team effort, with multiple staff anddozens of students making preparations for several weeks.Norby’s Woods students pre-cut and painted hundreds ofevergreen branches for a small Christmas tree that hasreplaced the snowman as the yearly project. Assisted by aWoods elf, each kindergartener glued, nailed, and screwedthe pieces together for a take-home memento.Agriculture teacher Jennifer McCauley organized the pettingzoo, utilizing her FFA students’ knowledge of animals tocreate a varied and clean display that included a miniaturehorse and donkey, rabbits, goats, a calf, and a turtle. “Andlots and lots of hand sanitizer,” laughed McCauley.Clean hands were necessary for the cookie decoratingstation. Lindsey Corrigan’s Foods and FACS classes bakednearly 400 sugar cookies from scratch, rolling out the doughto a precise quarter-inch thickness to ensure everyone gotthe same-sized treat. The older kids then helped each visitingstudent frost and decorate a cookie. “My students areexcited to share this experience with the kindergartenersevery year and show off their baking skills,” Corrigan says,noting her students also made their own elf hats to wear forthe event.It's that spirit of making the event merry and bright thatcatches the eye and heart of Workshop visitors. "The highschool kids work so well with our students," saidkindergarten teacher Samantha Samuelson. "You can tellthey put a lot of effort into making this a memorableexperience for the younger kids."Reid Gunderson's art students helped with the memories bycreating a holiday photo booth so each kindergartener couldtake a mini Polaroid picture home; the high school kidscolored with the kindergarteners during the wait for a photo. Gunderson's students also shouldered much of thedecorating load, putting their artistic skills to use. "It takesabout a week to prepare everything. I love to see the highschool students step up and help out with something that'snot about them," Gunderson said. "It's such a great way forthe older students to give back.""We decorate the halls and each classroom with a mindsetof making the kids laugh and have a good time," said ninth-grader Lillian Hendricks, who - according to Norby - hasenough enthusiasm for the Workshop to be about one yearaway from running the whole thing. "I love getting to hangout with the kids and take pictures with them," addedHendricks. "The smiles on their faces make Santa'sworkshop so memorable, the perfect way to get everyone inthe Christmas spirit!"If the Christmas spirit became a bit too overwhelming, KevinNolt's Business and Finance classroom was available forsome quiet coloring time or holiday stories. Nolt's studentsassisted with decorating and were available to help withcrowd control on Workshop day.Two kindergarten classes at a time made the northward trekand spent about an hour moving through the variousactivities. Samuelson appreciates the ease of attending eachyear. "The high school teachers and students set everythingup for us," she said. "We coordinate a date that works foreveryone, then sign up for a time slot, show up, and enjoy!"Norby looks forward to continuing that enjoyment for manymore years. "With the new building and the support of ouradministration, we've been able to turn a cool event into asuper cool event," he said. But, in the spirit of Old St. Nick,he hid his plans for future workshops behind a twinkle in hiseye.Photos and videos of this year's Santa's Workshop can befound on the Mustang Career/Tech Education Facebookpage.

High School UpdateBrent Nelson Principalbnelson@moraschools.org(320) 679-6200Ext. 7006Repeated BehaviorImbalance of Power

Mora Junior High Math LeagueWraps Up Successful Season

Materials and Manufacturing ProcessesA group of Mora students recently wrapped up an exciting semester-long PTCC College in the School's course calledMaterials and Manufacturing Processes, affectionately known as "Skate Shop." Throughout the course, students builta complete skateboard from scratch while gaining hands-on experience with a variety of materials andmanufacturing techniques.Students explored woodworking by shaping their custom skateboard decks from nine plies of Baltic birch, using aDIMM press to form the structure. They also developed their metalworking skills by creating cope and drag molds forsand casting.In the metals unit, they took recycling to the next level—melting down aluminum to cast skateboard trucks from 3D-printed patterns in sand molds.For plastics, students 3D-printed wheel hubs and cast polyurethane rubber around them in custom molds to createtheir own skateboard wheels. They also designed and cast their own silicone bushings.Even ceramics played a role in their builds, as students crafted their own custom grip surfaces, mimicking traditionalgrip tape.By the end of the course, each student had a fully customized and functional skateboard, having personally craftednearly every component except the hardware. Each board was unique, reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship ofits maker. Be proud, Mora!

Charlie WhitbredMHS Director of Athletics,Activities, Community Education, and Medical Career Explorationcwhitbred@moraschools.org(320) 679-6200Ext.7503Attend the online meeting & complete the registration paperwork1.Have a sports physical on file (good for three years)2.Pay the activity fee (7-8 grades- $25, and 9-12 grades- $50) 3.Spring Athletic Participation Checklist: More info: https://moraschools-ar.r schooltoday.com/home Spring Sport Start Dates:March 10 - Softball, Track & Field, & Baseball (arm care week)March 17 - Golf, BaseballMarch 24 - Boys TennisIf you need help staying up todate with your favorite teams,check out our Calendar byscanning the QR code.You can also download therSchools Activity Schedulerapp to see the sameinformation on your phoneUpcoming Events:February 24- Band ConcertsMarch 10- Choir ConcertsMarch 20, 21, 22- Spring MusicalWelia Walking Track Membership: Register and pay online here! Then, a background check will be sent Community Education:Tickets can be purchased here:https://gofan.co/app/school/MN19620 Drivers Education Spring Classes-February 27 & 28, March 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,10, 11, 1255+ Driving Classes- Scheduled forthis summer and next year onMarch 3, 2025 at 9:00 amSummer Classes will be available soon on the Community Education site: https://moraschools.cr3.rschooltoday.com/public/home/

ADULT PASS ~ $75SENIOR LIFETIME PASS ~ $50 Passes will be posted on the Activities page in August. The Adult season pass must be purchased online through Vancostarting August 12th (the start of the fall sports season). The pass will be good at all home activities and athletic events during the 2023-24 school year. (The only exceptions are playoff and section events/games)The 65 and older Senior Citizens Lifetime Pass will require theindividual to show ID & pay a fee in the district office starting August12th This pass (laminated card w/name) will be good at all home activitiesand athletic events, with the exception of playoff and sectionevents/games.MORA STUDENT ADMISSION ~ Mora 7-12 Students Free - Show student ID or StudentVueaccount on your phoneMora K-6 Student Free with a paid adultFREE HOME ATHLETIC/ACTIVITIESONLINE: Adults $6.00 / Non-Mora Students $4.00 /Senior Citizens $4.00AT THE DOOR: Adults $8.00 / Non-Mora Students $6.00 / Senior Citizens $6.00

Reporter, Darren LukenbillAs family expenditures go, few are felt more heavily than the cost of post-secondary education. At the end of 2024, the average cost of college in theUnited States was $38,270 per student per year, which includes tuition,books, supplies, and daily living expenses. In Minnesota, college tuition costsrose over 12% between the 2019-20 and 2023-24 school years.There are ways to avoid the highest costs; in-state tuition is far lessexpensive than out-of-state, and public schools are generally priced lowerthan private institutions. Regardless of school choice, the potential final billstrikes fear into the hearts of most payers. Federal financial aid, throughgrants, loans, or work-study, can alleviate some of the burden, as can themany scholarship opportunities available to students who have the initiativeto seek them out.“We are very fortunate to have incredible support from the Mora communitywhen it comes to scholarships for pursuing further education,” said MoraHigh School Counselor Sarah Ellstrom. Mora seniors who plan to pursue acollege degree have two local scholarship sources waiting to be utilized: theMora Dollars for Scholars program and Mora Local Scholarships, organizedby the MHS Counseling Office.According to its website, “Mora Dollars for Scholars (DFS) has been servingstudents in the Mora community since 1989 by raising funds and distributingscholarships to graduating seniors.” A local affiliate of Scholarship America, theMora DFS chapter was founded in 1989. Since then, $1,676,850 has been awardedto graduating seniors at MHS, 1,259 students in all. In 2024 alone, Mora DFSawarded 53 scholarships totaling $112,000.Each scholarship is $1,400.00. Additionally, about two renewable scholarshipsare awarded at $1,400.00 for four years of college, totaling up to $5,600.00. Theapplication process requires a short essay on college and career goals, and asksstudents to submit a variety of information such as high school GPA, activities,and the college or university the student intends to attend. Applications for aMora Dollars for Scholars scholarship are due on Thursday, March 27, this year.

y textOver thirty more scholarship opportunities are available through the MoraLocal Scholarships (MLS) collection. A more individualized assortment, theMLS list, is coordinated by the MHS Counseling Office. Students interested inapplying for scholarships beyond Dollars for Scholars can peruse the MLS list, apick-and-choose suite of options that have specific requirements of applicants.Some scholarships are based on high school activities, while others areawarded based on chosen career path. Applications for Mora LocalScholarships are also due on March 27.A unique addition to the Mora Local Scholarships is the Tozer Scholarship,which has been awarding “worthy and needy” students four-year renewablescholarships since 1947. Established by the late David Tozer, the $2,750 yearlyawards are given to students in Washington, Pine, and Kanabec counties. Tozerwas a lumberman based in Stillwater who did the majority of his loggingactivity in the St. Croix Valley. Upon his death, Mr. Tozer directed a corporationbe established with a mission of “support and charitable purposes”, asdetermined by its Board of Directors. To this day, the reasons behind Mr.Tozer’s desire to focus his scholarships to the three chosen counties remains amystery. While an application for the Tozer Scholarship is similar in structureto Mora’s other scholarship opportunities, it has a much earlier due date;applications were due on February 17.The path towards a college scholarship begins well before a student’s senior year.But, students who lay a foundation of strong academics, activity involvement, andcommunity service can arrive at their final year with the right qualifications forfinancial help. To the benefit of Mora’s seniors, that help is local, the list ofopportunities lengthy.2025 MHSLocal ScholarshipInformation

As we approach the end of the 2024-2025 school year, I’d like to take amoment to reflect on what a fantastic year it has been so far! Thank youto all our families, staff, and students for making this year so special.Shauna CronkDistrict School NurseBSN, RN, PHN, LSNshaunacronk@moraschools.org(320) 679-6200Ext. 7018VISIT OURVISIT OURVISIT OUR WEBSITEWEBSITEWEBSITEWhile the end of the year is in sight, we arestill seeing common school-age illnesses atboth the elementary and high school levels.Please remember to keep your studenthome if they are feeling unwell. Our 24-hour rule applies to students experiencinga fever, vomiting, or diarrhea—they mustremain home until they are symptom-freefor at least 24 hours. Also, don’t forget tocall the school’s attendance line to reporttheir absence and have them properlycoded for the day.In February, we wrapped up our second annualMN Dental Sealant Program, and it was a hugesuccess! Over 40 students, from preschoolthrough 12th grade, participated, and we couldn’tbe more thrilled with the turnout. The programnot only helps protect our students’ smiles butalso creates an opportunity for them to learnabout oral health in a fun and engaging way. A bigthank-you goes out to the staff, volunteers, andfamilies who made this possible. We’re so gratefulto have programs like this that support ourstudents’ well-being!

If your high school student plans toparticipate in sports, please ensure theyhave a current sports physical on file withthe district. Sports physicals are requiredevery three years. If you’re unsure aboutyour student’s status or have any questions,please contact the district office forassistance.As we look ahead to the next school year, I want toremind families of some important requirements.Incoming kindergarteners, 7th graders, and seniorswill need updated immunizations prior to the firstday of school (September 2025). This includes eithercompleted immunizations or notarized exemptionforms, which must be on file to prevent anyexclusions. Letters with specific details will be senthome this spring for students who require updates.If you have any other questions, feel free to contactme directly. The best way to reach me is via email atshaunacronk@moraschools.org, or you can connectwith the MES health office at 320-679-6200 ext. 4007or the MHS health office at ext. 7017.Thank you for your continued support, partnership,and care for our school community. Wishingeveryone a fun and successful end to the school year!Shauna Cronk, BSN, RN, PHNLicense School Nurse for MoraFor more information, click here!Information for the 2025-26school year will be accessible(at a later date) by clicking here.

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Did you know you can makepayments, view lunch menus,apply for Educational Benefits ,and MORE online atMoraschools.org? Heather StutzNutrition Directorheatherstutz@moraschools.org(320) 679-6200Ext. 5015Breakfast & Lunch MenusBreakfast & Lunch MenusMora Schools is an offer vs. serve district, whichmeans your child is able to choose between differentitems we prepare. There are 5 components to a fullmeal at lunch: meat/meat alternates, grains, fruit,vegetables, and milk. Under OVS, your child musttake at least 3 of the 5 components offered to make afull reimbursable meal. A ½ cup of fruits and/orvegetables is a required selection. Breakfast has 4components, 5 if meat/meat alternates are served. 3components, fruit being one, are required here aswell for a reimbursable meal.If your child refuses to take the minimum of 3 requiredcomponents, the meal is, at that point, chargeable to you.2nd entrees and individual milks are also chargeable;please make sure your child has money in their lunchaccount to avoid any negative balances.Offer vs. Serve (OVS) and a Reimbursable MealOffer vs. Serve (OVS) and a Reimbursable MealVisit Us Online!Visit Us Online!

Is your student missingsomething? As we head into thefinal months of school, don’tforget to check the Lost andFound at Mora Elementary andMora High School! We’vecollected many unclaimed itemsand would love to see themreturned to their owners. Stop by and take a look!

Reporter, Darren LukenbillFor nearly a century, school districts across the UnitedStates have acquired wooded acreage to provide outdoorlearning experiences for students.Wisconsin was the first state to establish a recognizedschool forest. Dean Harry Russell of the University ofWisconsin-Madison College of Agriculture introduced theidea of school-owned forests in 1925 after watchingschool children plant trees on public lands in Australia. In1928, Wisconsin’s Laona School Forest - appropriatelylocated in Forest County - became the first official schoolforest in the U.S. The 80-acre parcel of pines, spruces, andhardwoods was intended to encourage studentinvolvement in replanting forests and instill aconservation ethic in young people.To the west, Dr. C.V. Hobson, a Minnesota state legislatorand former geography professor at Bemidji StateUniversity, began to actively campaign in the late 1940sfor passage of a School Forest Law in the Land of 10,000Lakes. In 1949, the Minnesota Legislature passed the law. That same year, Aldo Leopold’s Sand County Almanac waspublished, now considered one of the most important andinfluential books on ecology and environmentalism everwritten. “When we see land as a community to which webelong,” Leopold wrote, “we may begin to use it with loveand respect.” In 1950, the Blackduck School Forest wasdesignated as Minnesota’s first, the initial step towardfostering in children the connection to land that Leopoldknew was crucial for a sustainable future.Seventy-five years and 162 school forests later, Hobson’slaw has spread to all corners of the state. Minnesotacurrently boasts 8,630 acres of designated school forest.From a quarter-acre parcel in Minneapolis to ClearbrookSchool District’s 360 acres, the North Star State’s schoolforests cover a wide range of sizes and locales.In east central Minnesota, Mora’s school forest acreage of213.46 dwarfs most neighboring districts and is well abovethe 53-acre state average. With nearly 140 acressurrounding the school campus, and roughly more 73acres north of town, Mora is one of just a handful ofdistricts in the state with two separate school forests.Mora’s County Line Forest is located, not surprisingly, atthe northern line where Kanabec and Aitkin countiescollide. Acquired in 1972 as a tax-forfeit parcel, the up-north forest is owned by the state, but in accordance withSchool Forest statute 89.41 (the 1949 School Forest Law),Mora School District is allowed to use the land foreducational purposes. High school science and forestryclasses have joined with local foresters for “field days” tothe property, but those outings have dwindled due to the20-mile distance, lack of bus parking on site, and ratherunsafe access from the highway.The school campus acreage was registered as schoolforest in 1996 in conjunction with the construction ofTrailview Elementary. Featuring a wide range of treespecies - including pines, hardwoods, and aspen - and landformations, the on-site forest is where much of theoutdoor educational action happens.

For years, the campus forest had a trail system withinterpretive sign posts to help students connect with theforested features they walked through. Former elementaryscience teacher Jim McCollough spearheaded thedevelopment of the forest and trails, which now bear hisname. Following McCollough’s retirement and subsequentpassing, the forest continued, but the trails fell intodisrepair.The forested areas are still used as classrooms, though. HighSchool Ag Instructor and FFA Advisor Jennifer McCauleygives multiple classes the opportunity to learn nature’slessons. Her 7th graders and senior high students use trailcameras to track biodiversity population counts. Studentsin Fish & Aquatics classes do water quality testing in theponds. Coursework for the MN Natural Resource andWildlife classes includes tree identification and soil qualitytests.Fifth-grade students use the forested area right outsidetheir classrooms to meet science standards. Local ForestrySpecialist Tony Miller leads lessons on how decisions aremade concerning the use of natural resources, with treeharvest being the focal point. Unfortunately, Miller can alsoteach students about the consequences of invasive speciesin the same forest; buckthorn has taken hold in manysections of the original Trailview woods.Besides classwork, the school campus forests provideplenty of space for teachers and students to walk, read,play, or simply be. Research provides a clear connectionbetween time in nature and positive health benefits; in thisage of artificial technology, school populations with easyaccess to forested areas would do well to take advantage ofany and all outdoor opportunities.So what’s next for Mora’s school forests? The WoodlandStewardship Plans for each forest were written in 2017 andare good for ten years, but with the recent high schoolconstruction an update is forthcoming. The resurrection ofa school forest committee - not seen in the district fordecades - has become a topic of discussion. Buckthornmanagement has begun, thanks in part to a new DNR CostShare Program. Making a dent in the buckthorn could leadto a revival of Mr. McCollough’s trail system.Leopold wrote, “There are some who can live without wildthings and some who cannot.” The original hope for schoolforests was to increase the number of those who cannot;that goal seems more critical than ever. With hundreds ofacres of wild things right outside their doors, Mora’sstudents and staff can give thanks for the vision of pastleaders, who gave hope for a more natural future.

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