Spring Lake Park Schools

2006-07 News

July 17, 2007
Fall Election : Six file for three open seats on the District 16 School Board
There will be six names on the November 6, 2007 ballot. More

July 17, 2007
Fall Sports: Here are the dates for registration and orientation
Registration for fall sports begins July 23 and orientation is August 6. More.

July 16, 2007
SkillsUSA: Three compete in national showcase of career and technical students
One current and two former Spring Lake Park students represented Minnesota. More.

July 14, 2007
Patriots Marching Band: Best season in 20 years
The Patriots season has included a Grand Champion Award and other firsts. More.

Slightly revised: Your 2007-08 Mini-Calendar
The School Board approved a change in the school calendar: two different starting dates at the high school, due to a new orientation program. To review the revised schedule, Click here.

Dr. Jennifer Kunze: New Coordinator of Teaching and Learning
The district has a new person to facilitate teaching and learning, curriculum development, instructional alignment, and professional learning and development. More.

Colleen Pederson: New Director of Community Education and Outreach
Pederson will oversee a wide range of programs and services for youth and adults and district efforts to expand and develop relationships with families, businesses, and community organizations. More

Northpoint Elementary ground-breaking : the beginning of a new era . . .
Ground-breakers young and old participated in a June 5 ceremony to commemorated the beginning of a new district elementary school. More.

New Woodcrest Elementary Principal: School Board announces Judi Kahoun
At the June 12 meeting, the School Board announced the apporintment of Judi Kahoun as the next principal of Woodcrest Elementary. More

Cable TV schedule: Rebroadcast of high school commencement and more
View commencement, band and choir concerts, school board meetings, and more on two cable channels. More

All-Class Reunion: Your invitation and RSVP for the Aug. 18, 2007 reunion
It’ll be a “once in every 50 years” event not to be missed! All Spring Lake Park High School alums, all current and former staff are invited. More

Student-built home!: You’re invited to an Open House to celebrate the mid-point of construction
Our students get hands-on, home-building experience. They’re at the halfway point of the current project. More.

Northpoint Elementary: Name announced for new school at the northernmost point of the district
After a review of nearly 90 submitted names, the School Board named the new K-3 school set to open in the fall of 2008. More.

Fall school board election: Filing period for three positions is July 3-17, 2007
The filing period for three four-year positions on the District 16 school board is in July 3-17. More.

Retirement reception: 14 district retirees honored, thanked for 377 years of service
District retirees accepted “a thousand thanks and a billion best wishes” at a May 15 reception. More.

Callahan to be principal of new elementary: He’ll first serve next year at Kenneth Hall
The School Board announced that Woodcrest Elementary principal Mike Callahan would replace Kenneth Hall’s retiring principal for next year, then become principal of the district’s new elementary school. More.

Initial response: Intolerance alleged at a District 16 school
On Thursday, May 3, an advocacy group alleged incidents of intolerance at the middle school. An investigation was immediately launched. More.

Fourteen retirees: Retirees will be honored at a May 15 reception
All current and all former District 16 staff members are invited to honor a group of special employees. More.

Two state competitions: Westwood Middle School students excel
Middle school students excel in the State Geographic Bee and Knowledge Master Open. More.

$5,000 raised: Park Terrace students raise tons of funds, teachers pay the price
All sorts of daring activities by teachers resulted from students raising $5,000 for the American Heart Association. More.

State winners!: FCCLA has multiple state winners, and two headed for nationals
Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America students earn top honors. More.

On to the nationals!: Elementary students are state bus safety poster contest winners
Two of the district’s six grade-level winners were also winners at the state level. More.

Over 80 suggestions : School Board offers another chance to help name the new school
The School Board received over 80 suggestions for the name of a new K-3 elementary school. You can help narrow the list. More.

One of four in the state: Spring Lake Park High School to be part of state’s Systemic High School Redesign initiative
Spring Lake Park will help create a statewide model for increasing student engagement and academic achievement. More.

Teacher of the Year: Spring Lake Park High School’s Lori Henry
Caring and success go hand-in-hand with the 2007 Teacher of the Year, selected by the teachers union. More

Safety and security: Land acquisitions part of long-range Facilities Improvement Plan
The first land acquisitions in decades have been completed. Each is based upon extensive long-range safety and security planning. More

Help name the new school: The new elementary school will have a name by ground-breaking
The School Board will name the new K-3 elementary school in Blaine, but you can give them your suggestions. More.

Consider serving: Several openings on the Panther Foundation board of directors
There’s a great opportunity to enrich the educational experiences of students by becoming involved with the Panther Foundation. More.

April 10 community reception: Dr. Don Helmstetter, Minnesota Superintendent of the Year
All are invited to a reception to greet and honor School District 16’s Don Helmstetter, the 2007 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year. More.

Education Today: 14 pages of really, really good news
For recent highlights, pride and excellence, and lot of top performances in state competitions, click here.

Community Update: 18 pages on Spring/Summer 2007 construction
The district’s Facilities Improvement Plan is really taking shape as construction will soon take place at all sites. For up-to-date drawings and details, click here.

Semifinal game: Panthers lose double overtime game, will play for third place in the state
It was a gutsy, gutsy effort, the Panthers second straight state tournament overtime game. Let’s all go to the Panthers game on Saturday. For details, click here

Revised Calendar: Basic calendar for 2007-08
You can now plan around important school-related dates, including vacation days. For a REVISED 2007-08 District 16 mini-calendar, click here.

Panthers victorious: First round of state boys basketball tourney
The Panthers prevailed in a thrilling overtime victory against Waconia. For further details, including Thursday’s semifinal game and early dismissal from school, click here.

State Basketball Tourney: High school boys basketball earns berth in state tourney
The state basketball tourney begins on Wednesday, March 21. For pepfest, tickects, and early release information, click here.

1 st, 2nd in the state: Elementary and middle school academic teams
District academic teams took top spots in the state in both the Minnesota Knowledge Master Open and the Minnesota Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl. More.

New architects drawings: High school phase I project for summer 2007
New architects drawings give a vivid picture of what new Spring Lake Park High Schools fine arts/athletic wing, to begin soon, will look like. View drawings here.

Come grow with us!: Superintendent’s update on summer 2007 construction projects
Summer 2007 will be busy, at all sites, with renovation and construction projects. Some in fact will begin as early as March. More.

$65,000 raised for student grants: The Panther Foundation GrandGala
Students will benefit greatly from the efforts of the Panther Foundation and the generosity of GrandGala guests. More.

1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the state: Incredible feat by Opportunities in Emergency Care teams
The top three spots in a state competition will be tough for any other high school team to duplicate. To see what our kids accomplished, click here

Three-time state champions: The Pantherettes Dance Team
Three straight years as state champions is unprecedented in Spring Lake Park High School history. More.

2007-08 Calendar: Board approves basic calendar for next year
You can now begin to plan around important school-related dates, including vacation days. For a 2007-08 District 16 mini-calendar, click here.

Summer Facilities Projects: Tentative timelines
Get a first look at tentative timelines for the district's summer 2007 Facilities Improvement Plan projects. More.

The move begins: Early Childhood Programs to relocate to interim site in March
District 16’s comprehensive Early Childhood Programs will move to 1415 81st Avenue in Spring Lake Park in March. More.

You can help, too: Middle school helping students affected by Hurricane Katrina
If you contribute by February 22, you can help benefit kids in New Orleans school in need. More.

2007-08 Kindergarten: Information and Registration Nights are Feb. 22, 27, Mar. 1
Is your child going to be kindergarten in the fall? For information on Parent Information and Registration Nights, click here.

The Panther Foundation Raffle: Help kids and have a chance at a Corvette for a weekend, TV, or iPod
Buy a raffle ticket for the Foundation fundraiser and you’ll enrich the educational experiences of District 16 kids…and you just might take home a cool prize. More.

Summer Construction: See what’s happening this summer at Westwood and Park Terrace
The School Board approved final design plans for summer construction projects at Park Terrace Elementary and the Westwood complex. For details and drawings, click here.

2007 GrandGala: Annual Panther Foundation Fund-raiser is February 24
You can join the guests gathered to help enrich the educational experiences of the district’s students. To learn more about the Panther Foundation’s GrandGala, click here.

Taco Fiesta Dinner!: January 26 Taco Dinner Fund-raiser and Panther Basketball Games
What a great family outing! Take in one or more boys or girls basketball game and have a great Mexican dinner to raise funds for Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America students. For a flyer, click here.

Final design plan: Spring/summer facilities projects
On January 9, the School Board approved final design plans for the new K-3 elementary school, phase I of Spring Lake Park High School, and Phase I of Woodcrest Elementary. Read more and review designs

First! Second! In the state: Elementary, middle school thinking Cap Quiz Bowl results
A middle school academic team was first in the state, an elementary team was second, in this year’s Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl. Read more.

Ten years, $40,000: Student group raises funds for local charities
Opportunities in Emergency Health Care students have raised over $40,000, wrapped “tons” of holiday presents over the past ten years. Read more.

Lots of Toys for Tots: Students making a difference, helping others
The high school’s Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America students are making a difference. Read more.

Two January 12 events Spaghetti dinner fundraiser, Fine Arts Festvival
Good spaghetti for a great cause? High school Fine Arts Festival? Attend one or both. Read more.

Sports Shorts: Top academic and athletic honors
For a sampling of recent success by our student-athletes, click here.

The Voice Student peer education theater troupe
”The Voice” garners rave reviews and grant awards, too. Read more.

January 12: Sleepout for the Homeless fundraiser
You can help, too, by making a donation to the brave students who will brave the elements to benefit the homeless. Read more.

Community Participation: 2007 Spring Lake Park Teacher of the Year Program
This year, community members have the opportunity to nominate candidates for Spring Lake Park School District Teacher of the Year for 2007. For more information and a nomination form, click here.

Finances: Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
Th e 100-plus page Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the year ended June 30, 2006 was presented att the December 12 School Board meeting. To view the document in its entirety, click here

Cable TV Schedule: Holiday Concerts and More . . .
Two cable channels, serving Blaine, Fridley, and Spring Lake Park, bring you student holiday concerts and much more. For the current schedule, click here.

Finances: Truth in Taxation Presentation
A December 7 public hearing featured a Truth in Taxation presentation. The district’s website is rebroadcasting the entire hearing. The slides from the presentation can be accessed if you click here.

Dec. 4, 8 Staff Training: Altered School Schedule
Remember that there is NO SCHOOL on Monday, Dec. 4 due to staff inservices and workshops. The school day ends two hours earlier than usual on Friday, Dec. 8 for staff training as well.

Facilities Update: Future District and Community Services Center
The Board voted to utilize the former HealthPartners facility during construction phases and as a permanent District and Community Services Center. Read More.

Get your DVD! Look at Pictures!: Stafff Folleeez Fundraiser a Big Success
District 16 staff members were willing to be foolish to raise funds for a good cause. See a Stafff Folleeez blurb, view a few pictures, and consider ordering your own Folleeez DVD . Read more.

2007 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year: District 16’s Dr. Helmstetter Receives Top Honor
The Minnesota Association of School Administrators named Spring Lake Park superintendent as the state’s best on November 14. Read more.

Nov. 18 Stafff Folleeez: Putting the Fun in Fundraising.
District 16 staff will raise funds for the Panther Foundation with a little talent, a great deal of folly, and good family fun for all. Please come. For Folleez Flyer, Cast and Skit, Promotional Video, click here.

Facilities Update: HeatlhPartners Building Will Help With Space Needs
The District will utilize the former HealthPartners facility during 2007-2010 construction phases. Board will consider permanent use as District & Community Services Center. More.

October 16 Insider: School Board Briefs, Student and Staff Success, and More
A Woodcrest Elementary staff member receives a state honor, School Board briefs, exceptional fall athletic success, our 2006-07 Framework for the Future, and more. For the latest Insider, click here.

Our Framework for the Future: Guiding Document
The School Board has approved an updated “Framework for the Future.” This document drives and continuing and measurable focus and commitment to the needs and emerging needs of all students. To view the Framework, click here.

2005-06 Annual Report: Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Performance
At the October 10 meeting, the School Board reviewed and accepted the 2005-06 Annual Report on Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Performance. To view the report, click here.

Immediate Need for Host Families!: High school foreign exchange students
Two high school students are in immediate need of finding local host families so that they can remain in school. To find out how you can help, click here.

September 22 Chili Feed!: Support High School Athletics, Lions Club causes
Support Spring Lake Park High School athletics as well as Lions Club community programs by attending an “all you can eat” chili feed, followed by the football game. For a printable flyer, click here.

Video Tour of Summer 2006 Progress: The Facilities Improvement Plan
A lot of work took place over the summer on the district’s Facilities Improvement Plan. To view a six-minute “video tour” of these projects covering Park Terrace Elementary, Westwood Intermediate, Panther Stadium, and the new elementary school, click here.

Patriotic “Honor the Heroes” event: Friday, September 15, 2006
An annual community group-sponsored program to honor our country’s service men and women, police, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, POWs, and MIAs will take place Friday, September 15 on the Spring Lake Park High School campus. For details on “Honor the Heroes,” click here.

The Start of a New School Year: In 2006-07, It’s The Best of Times!
The Spring Lake Park School District 16 is going through some of the most exciting times in its 50 year history. For the superintendent’s back-to-school message, click here

Football Game Webcasts: Fall 2006 Panther Varsity Football Games
Can’t go to every Spring Lake Park High School Panthers home game? To learn about Panther football webcasts, click here.

Bus Routes: 2006-07 bus transportation routes for all schools
Families will be receiving bus stop information in the mail by August 25. Bus transportation routes are available online if you click here.

New Elementary School: View preliminary designs of school that will open in 2008
On August 8, the School Board viewed the first schematic drawings for the new elementary school. You can view them as well if you click here.

Back to School: Start of school information you’ll want to know
The 2006-07 school year is just around the corner, for “The ABCs of What You’ll Want to Know,” click here

Facilities Update: Find out what’s been happening throughout the summer
The school district is well into the initial phases of its Long-Range Facilities Improvement Plan. To find out what’s been happening this summer, click here.

2006-07: School-Year Calendar is on the Web
Most events for the upcoming 2006-07 school year have been posted to the "Web Cal" found on the school district's website home page. We will continue to add events throughout the summer. (The first day of school for grades 1-12 is Tuesday, Sept. 5. Kindergarten Plus students start on Wednesday, Sept. 6. Half-Day Kindergarten students start on Thursday, Sept. 7).

Facilities Updates: Summer Facilities Improvement Projects
Updates will be continually provided on summer facilities improvement projects; those related to the bond referendum, and others as well. For the latest updates, click here .

2005-06 News

Generous Local Donors: 40 percent of graduates receive local scholarships
In a a year-end Local Scholarships and Awards Night program, over 40 percent of the high school’s seniors received local scholarships. More.

Sunday, June 11 Open House : Visit the Student-Built Dream House
Looking for a home to buy? Know someone who’s in the market? Consider this new-on-the-market gem (built by our students) located at 8935 Pierce Street in Blaine. For details, click here.

National Honor Society : 23 New Inductees
Spring Lake Park High School inducted 23 new students into the National Honor Society on May 17. For more information, click here.

The Color Project: Portrait Canvasses to be Unveiled
Park Terrace Elementary students recently participated in a wee-long activity to celebrate one another’s uniqueness. On May 25 and 26, their portrait canvasses will be unveiled. To learn more, click here.

Facilities Improvement Plan Update: Spring, Summer Projects Have Been Launched
Excavation has begun on Panther Stadium reconstruction, classrooms to be added at Park Terrace and Westwood Elementary Schools this summer. To learn more, click here.

The Wellstone Award: S.A.L.S.A. student group honored by Minnesota School Counselors Association
Student Alliance for Leadership in Social Action students receive state-level award. For more information, click here.

Spring Lake Park Students Build Dream Home: Take a Tour at the May 25 Open House
Now this is hands-on learning! See the loaded with features, student-built home and have a hot dog, too on May 25.. For more information, click here.

GrandGala Success: Panther Foundation fund-raiser nets $40,000 to fund grants for kids
The second annual Panther Foundation GrandGala was a roaring success; one that will benefit countless District 16 students . For more information, click here.

Teacher of the Year: Spring Lake Park High School’s Bill Neiss
The first-ever recipient of Teacher of the Year Award from the district’s teachers’ union is Bill Neiss from the Opportunities in Emergency Care program . For more information, click here.

Middle School Students and Technology: Do You Know What Your Child is Doing?
Come to a May 8 parent information meeting to find out the results of a student survey and learn about online safety resource. For more information, click here.

Education Foundation Car Raffle: Buy a ticket, benefit a student!
The Panther Foundation, which awards grants for innovative projects and experiences for kids, is offering you a chance to own a $10,000 car for a $10 raffle ticket. Proceeds benefit District kids in many, many ways. For more details, click here.

Free Seminar on May 3 is Open to All: Sleepless in America: Is Your Child Misbehaving or Missing Sleep?
She’s coming here! Best-selling author and internationally recognized lecturer and parent educator Mary Sheedy Kurcinka will explore the scientific link between misbehaving and missing sleep. Discover practical tools. Thursday, May 3. 6:30-8:30 pm. Spring Lake Park High School Fine Arts Center. For more details and flyer, click here.

Spring Fling: Senior Citizen Night at Spring Lake Park High School is April 26
Spring Fling, an annual event for Blaine, Spring Lake Park, and Fridley senior citizens, will be held on Wednesday, April 16, beginning at 5:30 pm, at Spring Lake Park High School.

Sponsored by the student council, area seniors will be treated to a free event featuring a dinner catered by Keys Cafe, performances by the school’s jazz band and Parkaires Show Choir, and excerpts from “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” the high school’s spring musical.

Dinner will be served at 5:45 pm, with performances commencing at 7:00 pm. The high school is located at 8001 Able Street NE, Spring Lake Park. Enter on the school’s Able Street (west) side.

It's free! Call 763-786-5571 no later than April 24 to register or if you have questions.

High School Principal Search: Frank Herman is the Recommended Candidate
Read about recommended high school principal candidate Frank Herman, as well as highlights from the March 28 School Board meeting by clicking here.

2006-07 Calendar: School Board approves calendar for next year
At a March 28 meeting, the Board approved a calendar for next year. To access the calendar, click here.

2006-07 Kindergarten Round-Up
Three Kindergarten Round-Up evenings...
Tuesday, April 4     Park Terrace Elementary     6:00 - 7:00 p.m.   (directions)
Thursday, April 6    Woodcrest Elementary                                  (directions)
   Kindergarten Plus parents & children                   4:45 - 5:45 p.m.
   Half-Day Kindergarten parents and children        6:15 - 7:15 p.m.
Tuesday, April 11   Kenneth Hall Elementary   5:00 - 6:30 p.m. (directions)

A brighter future: A first look at bond project timelines
The community's support of the February 28 bond referendum is greatly appreciated. Our kids will benefit in countless ways. Now, the work begins. For an initial look at next steps and bond project timelines, click here.

2006 Panther Foundation GrandGala: Car raffle, too!
The second annual Panther Foundation GrandGala is Saturday, April 29, 2006 at the Tournament Players Club of the Twin Cities in Blaine. Hosted by the Panther Foundation Board of Directors, the Gala raises funds to enrich the educational experiences of District 16 students. The evening will feature a silent auction, live auction, and fine dining. Want to find out more, or have an invitation mailed to you? Call 763-795-5155.

Whether you attend the Gala or not, a car raffle is a part of it and you need not attend to be eligible to win. You’ll want to consider buying a $10 raffle ticket for a drawing on a 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (with 30,000 miles). Only 2,000 ticket will be sold. (You must be 18 to purchase a ticket, winner pays taxes and insurance). Tickets are available at the Athletics/Activities Office of Spring Lake Park High School. Call 763-785-5549 if you have questions.

Referendum: Voters approve February 28 bond referendum
The February 28 District 16 bond referendum was approved by a 54 to 46 percent margin, with 1,842 voting in favor and 1,549 opposed. For more information, click here.

Referendum: Voters approve bond referendum by a 54 to 46% margin
The February 28 District 16 bond referendum was approved by a 54 to 46 percent margin, with 1,842 voting in favor and 1,549 opposed. These figures are considered preliminary until the resolution canvassing the election results is approved by the School Board on March 2.

Referendum: Voting information and map to polling places
For election date, times, and maps to polling locations, click here.

Referendum: More answers to your referendum questions
For answers to the most recent questions we’ve received from school district residents, click here.

High School Dance Team repeats as Class 2A state champions
The Spring Lake Park High School Pantherettes Dance Team won its second consecutive state title on Friday, February 17. Full story here.

Referendum: Answers to your questions
A number of people have telephoned or e-mailed their questions about the referendum. For answers to these questions, click here.

Referendum: Benefit for kids, sound investment, effective use of tax dollars
For the most recent “Superintendent’s Message,” Click here

High school principal Glenn Martin announces intention to retire at the end of the year
“There comes a time,” said Spring Lake Park High School principal Glenn Martin, “for all of us to turn the page and enter a new chapter in the book of life.” At an after-school meeting with the high school staff on Wednesday, February 8, Martin shared with his staff that after “considerable thought, planning, and discussion,” he was announcing his decision to retire at the end of the 2005-06 school year. Click here for more.

Referendum: Map of new school location, existing schools, population growth
Where would the new K-3 elementary school be located? Where are the district’s current schools? Where is the student enrollment growth occurring? Click here for a map and explanation.

Referendum: "Education Today-Bond Update 5"
This issue of the online newsletter offers a compilation good-to-know and need-to-know information about the February 28 bond referendum. It has a summary of the facilities study, task force recommendations; architects site drawings, election information, answers to your questions, and lots more. Click here for Referendum Newsletter.

On January 14, the Pantherettes Dance Team tied Totino-Grace for first place in the category of Jazz/Funk in the North Suburban Conference Championship competition. This is the first dance team conference championship in the school's history. At the January 28 Maple Grove Invitational, the team placed first in both High Kick and Jazz/Funk; the first time they have placed first in both categories at one event. In 2005, the Pantherettes were state champions in the Jazz/Funk AA Competition, another first in the school’s and team’s history.

Referendum: "Education Today-Bond Update 4" newsletter offers referendum details
The online "Education Today-Bond Update 4" newsletter offers a summary of the bond project and the ways to receive additional information. Click here for Bond Update.

Referendum: View a Series of Online Facilities Videos
View an 11-minute video on the findings and recommendations of the community-staff Facilities Task Force, or two 6-minute videos offering a "virtual tour" of facilities needs and improvement plans at each site. Go To Videos.

Referendum: Your Property Tax Impact Calculator
Find out how the bond referendum would affect your property taxes. Click here for the tax impact calculator.

Referendum: Election/Voting Information
The bond referendum election, for residents of Spring Lake Park School District 16, will be Tuesday, February 28. Hours are 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. Click here for more details.

Referendum: "Education Today-Bond Update 3" newsletter offers referendum details
The online "Education Today-Bond Update 3" newsletter offers details about about the School Board's December 6 decision to hold a February 28 bond referendum election. A printed copy of the newsletter will be mailed to all residents, the online version is available here: District Newsletter.

Referendum: Eleven January community information meeting and/or facilities tours
Eleven community information meetings and/or tours of district facilities were announced at the Dec. 13 School Board meeting. For the dates, times, and locations, click here.

Referendum: Have Your Questions Answered
Superintendent Don Helmstetter, a district administrator, or a member of the Facilities Task Force will get back to you with an answer (within two work days whenever possible) if you leave your question on one of these Hotlines. Be sure to leave your name, address, and phone number.

E-Mail Hotline: 2006BondReferendum@district16.org
Phone Hotline: 763-795-5195

Referendum: School Board sets date for bond referendum election
February 28 bond election will address district enrollment growth, under-sized sites, aging facilities, deferred maintenance, new construction, and a new K-3 school
The Spring Lake Park School District 16 school board unanimously authorized a $95 million bond referendum election for Tuesday, February 28, 2006 at a special board meeting on Tuesday, December 6.

“The school board’s action demonstrates their resolve to repair and renovate aging facilities and to build new facilities to address our rapidly growing enrollment,” said Superintendent Don Helmstetter.

The school district, which serves students from Blaine, Spring Lake Park, and Fridley, must accommodate a nearly 20 percent increase in school enrollment over the next six years. In just one year alone, from fall 2004 to 2005, 200 new students enrolled in the district. Over 800 new students are projected.

A task force of community members and district staff started work on a study of school district needs and facilities last February. It presented a report to the school board on November 8, identifying over $93 million in needs for upgrading and renovating 35 to 50 year-old facilities, completing deferred maintenance projects, addressing land-locked and under-sized school sites, completing new construction projects, and building a new K-3 elementary school in Blaine where population growth is the fastest in the district.

Like the School Board, task force members were unanimous, as well, in their decision to do whatever is necessary to improve District 16’s facilities for this and the next generation of students.

At one of the community information meetings held in the fall, task force member Dick Morin, a Fridley resident and parent of Spring Lake Park High School graduates, had this to say: “We need to step up to the challenge and do what is necessary to carry our schools into an ever-challenging future. These are our schools, our children, our responsibility.”

The Board unanimously endorsed the task force plan that was presented at community information meetings in the fall and is available on the Facilities Plan/Bond Referendum section of the district web site, accessible from the home page of www.springlakeparkschools.org. They also approved additional construction at Woodcrest Elementary School, a concept that was previously discussed, but not a viable option at the time of the task force study. The plan now includes adding early childhood programs to the Woodcrest site in a new wing that will connect the two existing wings at the south end of the building.

If approved on February 28, 2006, the referendum would mean a net tax increase of about $16/month for the average district homeowner.

For a history of the facilities study and future updates on the bond referendum, continue to visit the district web site. There are sections available to have your questions answered, to schedule a “coffee party” information session, or to sign up for facilities tours which will be scheduled after the first of the year. Upcoming district mailings will provide full details of the facilities improvement plan and voting information. A total of 6-10 community information meetings will be scheduled in January.

Board to decide on whether or not to hold 2006 Bond Referendum election at December 6 special meeting
On Tuesday, December 6, at 7:00 pm, District 16 will hold its annual Truth in Taxation Hearing in the Board of Education Building.

Then, about 8:00 pm, the Board will commence a special meeting to make a final decision on whether or not to go forward with a 2006 Bond Referendum election. The referendum would provide funding for long-term facilities needs that address substantial enrollment growth, aging facilities, land-locked sites that are too small, deferred maintenance, renovation, new construction, and a new K-3 elementary school. If the Board decides upon holding an election for a bond referendum, it would be in late February 2006 at the earliest.

Go to the district web site home page for continual updates on the Facilities Plan/2006 Bond Referendum. This site will also begin posting answers to frequently asked questions.

If you have comments or questions on the Facilities Improvement Plan or Bond Referendum, Superintendent Don Helmstetter, a district administrator, or task force member will get back to you with an answer within two business days if you leave a message on one of these Hotlines. E-Mail Hotline: 2006BondReferendum@district16.org or Phone Hotline: 763-795-5195.

Lake Park High School football players on Academic All-State Team
Seniors Jeff Clark and Grant Krumme, from the Spring Lake Park High School football team, have been named to the Class 4A Academic All-State Team. Only 15 student-athletes out of 57 Class 4A high schools were selected, making this a very special honor. Criteria for the Academic All-State Team includes academic honors, school activities, leadership, other sports played, and football honors received/statistics. Clark and Krumme each reside in Blaine.

Hear the Roar!
Consider Volunteering for the Panther Foundation Board
New board members are being sought for the Panther Foundation, a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to enriching educational experiences in School District 16 serving Blaine, Spring Lake Park and Fridley.

The Foundation has been active for a little over a year with impressive results to date. During the 2004-05 school year, 14 grants totaling $14,600 were awarded and invested in a variety of innovative projects touching all age groups. Another $14,000 was earmarked for special initiatives and an endowment fund was established. Every dollar the Foundation invests in grants or initiatives comes from a community member through a donation, membership, fundraising event, matching fund, or special gift plan.

It is the board of directors’ job to acquire and allocate resources. Being a board member requires volunteers to commit approximately two hours each month and to become a Foundation member with annual rates starting at $25. Current directors are Theresa Berset-Klis, Jill Brown, Ann Bryz-Gornia, Terry Dussault, Don Helmstetter, Marilynn Forsberg, AnneMarie Klimek, Tom Larson, Joel LeVahn, Glenn Martin, Tom Newland, Sue Pyatt, Scott Strand, George Walter, and Al Yee Litt. District staff, Karen Schaub and Jim Elert, work with the board on special projects.

Applications are available by calling 763-795-5155 or going to the Foundation’s web site at www.PantherFoundation.org. The deadline for applying is Dec. 9, 2005.

School Board Approves Early Release Day for Students on Thursday, January 26, 2006
Thursday, January 26, 2006 will be an “Early Release Day” for all students in District 16. Teachers will be involved in professional development activities during the afternoon on this day. The early release on Thursday precedes a long weekend in which Friday is already a student vacation day. Please mark this on your calendars as this staff development session was just approved by the School Board as it is not on the school calendar.

Full story and more details available here: More.

Board hears final report and recommendations of the Facilities Task Force
The School Board heard the final report and recommendations of the community-staff Facilities Task Force on Tuesday, Nov. 8. The Board will now make a decision in December on whether or not to go forward with a 2006 Bond Referendum election to address enrollment growth, aging facilities, land-locked sites, deferred maintenance, renovation, new construction, and a new K-3 elementary school. The report is available at:
http://www.springlakeparkschools.org/DO/Facilities/default.htm

Delfs, Forsberg, Ruch, Stroebel elected to School Board
The Tuesday, Nov. 8 School Board election in District 16 is to fill four seats on the seven-member board. Results are:

Board Candidate      Vote Total
John Borene........................585
Kelly Delfs* ......................600
Marilynn Forsberg*..........679
Gerry Miller........................ 452
Jodi Ruch.........................700
John Stroebel..................822
Linda Waiwaiole................. 505
Annette Winrick...................345

Kelly Delfs, Marilynn Forsberg, Jodi Ruch, and John Stroebel have been elected to four-year terms of office beginning January 2006.

School Board Election is Tuesday, November 8
The District 16 School Board election is Tuesday, November 8, 2005. Polling places are open from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

If you live in District 16 and are a resident of Blaine, your polling place is Westwood Elementary School.

If you live in District 16 and are a resident of Spring Lake Park, your polling place is Woodcrest Elementary School.

If you live in District 16 and are a resident of Fridley, your polling place is your regularly designated precinct.

If you're not sure of your polling place, that information is available at http://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/

Election results will be available after 8:00 p.m. on November 8 at the Anoka County Elections website http://www.co.anoka.mn.us/

Election results will also be posted on the home page of the District 16 website.

Friday, October 28 news items...
Another Good News Friday
Three Spring Lake Park High School seniors have been named Commended Students in the National Merit Scholarship Program. They are Kendra Allen, Brad DeJong, and David Karnick. Less than three percent of all seniors in the country that took the qualifying test received this honor.

The Spring Lake Park Panthers football team is the North Suburban Conference Co-Campion. The team defeated North Branch 42-21 in the first playoff game. The next game is Saturday, Oct. 29, 7:00 pm, at home vs Fridley. You really should attend the game, but if you can’t? It will be broadcast live on the web by going to: www.CrystalClearSports.net (Pre-game coverage begins at 6:30 pm.) You can receive the broadcast for a fee of $6.95.

The girls volleyball team is the North Suburban Conference Champion. The team won its first playoff game against Irondale. Their next match it Saturday, Oct. 29, 4:00 pm, at Centennial.

The girls cross country team was named North Suburban Conference Academic Champions. Freshman Holly Reiland won the North Suburban Conference Girls Cross-Country Championship. She placed 5th at the Section 4AA Cross Country Meet, qualifying for the State Meet on Saturday, Nov.5 at St. Olaf College. Holly also broke the school record by 41 seconds.

The boys soccer team captured the Section 4AA Championship with a 2-0 victory over White Bear Lake. This is the 2nd state tournament appearance for boys soccer with the first coming in 1985. The team is the number 5 seed. They lost an ever-so-close 2-1 match to Blaine on Oct. 27 at Irondale High School.

Junior girls soccer player Laura Hamer was named All- State Honorable Mention at the state banquet.

"Harvey" is the Spring Lake Park High School fall play
An imaginary six-and-a-half foot rabbit, Jimmy Stewart's famous "Elwood P. Dowd" character, and a sanitarium staff that loses a patient. You know the story. "Harvey" is the Spring Lake Park High School Drama Dept.'s fall play. See an evening performance on Nov. 4 , 5, 11, or 12 at 7:30 pm. Or, a matinee performance at 2:30 pm on Nov. 12. All shows are at the district's Fine Arts Center, 8000 Highway 65 NE. Admission: $8.00 adults, $6.00 students and seniors. Call 763-795-5929 to order tickets. Online, its: www.springlakeparkschools.org/athleticsandactivities/activities/drama

Annual Report on Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Performance
The School Board approved the "2004-05 Annual Report on Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Performance" on October 25. This document is available online. More.

Second of two School Board candidates forums is Thursday, Oct. 27
The second of two School Board Candidates Forums will be held Thursday, October 27, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., in the Fine Arts Center, Spring Lake Park High School complex, 8000 Highway 65 NE.

It is a great way to learn more about the eight candidates for four School Board positions. It will be moderated by League of Women Voters personnel. All are welcome to attend.

The candidates are: John Borene, 8801 Davenport Street NE, Blaine; Kelly Delfs,* 8172 Polk Street NE, Spring Lake Park; Marilynn Forsberg,* 1150 - 79th Avenue NE, Spring Lake Park; Gerry Miller, 2786 - 89th Lane NE, Blaine; Jodi Ruch, 2318 - 119th Avenue NE, Blaine; John Stroebel, 911 - 92nd Avenue NE, Blaine; Linda Waiwaiole, 598 - 100th Court NE, Blaine; and Annette Winrick, 2326 - 119th Avenue, Blaine. *Indicates incumbents

These eight candidates will be on the ballot for the November 8, 2005 School Board General Election. The term of each position is four years beginning January 2006.

This Board Candidate Forum will also be rebroadcast on Comcast Channel 19 (Blaine/Spring Lake Park) and Time-Warner Cable Channel 14 (Fridley). Playback times as well as election information is available at: www.springlakeparkschools.org.

The forum is hosted by the school district’s Community Services Department. If you have questions, call 763-786-1338.

Task Force unveils preliminary facilities improvement plans at community meetings
The district's Facilities Task Force held the first of three October community meetings on Thursday, October 6. To view handouts from the meeting, click here and access the second October 7 listing. For a schedule of local cable TV rebroadcasts of the meetings, click here.

Comprehensive Enrollment Report
As is the case each fall, an enrollment report was presented to the School Board at the beginning of the new school year. This year's report was presented on Sept. 27, 2005. To view all of the data presented, it is available here. More.

Information from the Facilities Task Force preliminary facilities improvement plan
The District 16 School Board heard details from the preliminary plan of the Facilities Task Force at a September 27 work session. This was in preparation for upcoming task force presentations at October 6, 12, and 24 community meetings. Excerpts from the presentation to the School Board and more about the community information meetings are available here. More.

Facilities Task Force completes study of District 16 schools, community informational meetings scheduled in October
Members of the Spring Lake Park School District 16 citizen-staff Facilities Task Force, a group that has studied the needs of district facilities since January, is preparing to share its findings with the community.

Community meetings—each with the same content—have been scheduled to explain major components of the task force’s Preliminary Facilities Improvement Plan. Time will also be provided for questions and comments from those in attendance. Though they will have the same content, three meetings were scheduled to increase the opportunities for community members to attend. The meetings are:

Thursday, October 6; Wednesday, October 12, and Monday, October 24
7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Fine Arts Center, Spring Lake Park High School, 8000 Highway 65 NE, Spring Lake Park

Since January, the task force has toured and reviewed all district sites, prioritized current and future facilities needs, reviewed enrollment and demographic data, and reviewed state statutes related to renovation and new construction.

Significant deferred maintenance needs on all facilities, buildings that are 35 to 50 years old.

Projected enrollment increases of 800 students, that have already begun to take place (a nearly 18 percent increase), leading to the need for additional classrooms at several schools, the purchase of additional land, and a new elementary school in Blaine.

Land-locked school properties, too small for today’s state guidelines, that limit district renovation options and choices. This may lead to a reworking of the Spring Lake Park High School site and the closing of Kenneth Hall Elementary.

Task force research and findings will not become recommendations until November. The school board will then review and discuss the recommendations, eventually agreeing upon a facilities improvement plan to take before district voters in 2006.

Remaining tentative timeline for task force and school board activities following the October community meetings:

Task Force fine-tunes Facilities Improvement Plan, utilizing community feedback and survey results Prior to Nov. 8, 2005

Task Force presents its final, completed Facilities Improvement Plan recommendations to the School Board Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2005

School Board decision on Facilities Improvement Plan, decision on 2006 date for Bond Referendum (Specific date will be announced.) Nov. 22, Dec. 6, or Dec. 13; 2005

District prepares and conducts an informational campaign to inform residents of the Facilities Improvement Plan and the Bond Referendum vote Following the Board decision

Probable date for 2006 Bond Referendum Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2006

Get up-to-the-minute news
Sign up now for E-News Updates from Spring Lake Park School District 16
A new communications feature has just been launched in the Spring Lake Park Schools. We call it E-News Updates.

You can now select from a menu of district, school, or department news sources and updates will be periodically sent to your e-mail address.

The initial E-News Update choices: District News, School Closings/Emergency Announcements, School Board Agendas/Minutes, Weekly Athletic Schedules, Kenneth Hall Elementary, Learning Alternatives, Park Terrace Elementary, Spring Lake Park High School, Westwood Elementary, Westwood Middle School, and Woodcrest Elementary.

Subscribing to this new service is easy. Go to the school district home page www.springlakeparkschools.org (or any of the schools’ home pages) and select “E-News sign-up.” Once there, you’ve only to check the boxes of the news updates you’re interested in receiving, enter your e-mail address, and hit “subscribe.” Try it, we think you’ll like it. If you don’t, “unsubscribing” is easy to do as well.

Streaming video: September 16 Panther football game is live on the Internet
If you can’t make it in person to the Sept. 16 Spring Lake Park High School Panthers home football game against St. Francis, here’s a great option!

The game will be broadcast live on the Internet courtesy of Crystal Clear Sports. All you need to do is go to their website, www.crystalclearsports.net, and, for a $6 fee, you can watch the game live on your computer.

This is only the second high school football game in Minnesota to be broadcast live on the Internet. (A Panther game was also the first). All regular season home games will be shown live on this website. Another great opportunity to showcase Spring Lake Park!

Work of Facilities Task Force nearly completed, community informational meetings scheduled
At a Sept. 13 School Board meeting, Superintendent Don Helmstetter gave a tentative timetable for the completion of the work of the Facilities Task Force, a staff community group that has been studying the needs of district facilities since January. A preliminary report to the School Board could take place as early as the Board’s Sept. 27 work session. Community informational meetings will take place October 6, 12, and 24 in the district’s Fine Arts Center. The School Board will take action on the Task Force’s recommendations in November or December. More

Be informed . . .
School Board Candidate Forums are September 28 and October 27
Eight district residents have filed for four at-large positions on the seven-member District 16 School Board.

Two School Board Candidates Forums have been scheduled this fall as a way to learn more about the candidates. They will be moderated by League of Women Voters personnel. All are welcome to attend.

The forums will be held Wednesday, September 28 and Thursday, October 27. Each will be from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., in the Fine Arts Center,
Spring Lake Park High School complex, 8000 Highway 65 NE.

The candidates are:
John Borene, 8801 Davenport Street NE, Blaine
Kelly Delfs,* 8172 Polk Street NE, Spring Lake Park
Marilynn Forsberg,* 1150 - 79th Avenue NE, Spring Lake Park
Gerry Miller, 2786 - 89th Lane NE, Blaine
Jodi Ruch, 2318 - 119th Avenue NE, Blaine
John Stroebel, 911 - 92nd Avenue NE, Blaine
Linda Waiwaiole, 598 - 100th Court NE, Blaine
Annette Winrick, 2326 - 119th Avenue, Blaine

These eight candidates will be on the ballot for the November 8 School Board General Election. The term of each position is four years beginning January 2006.

Each Board Candidate Forum will also be rebroadcast on Comcast Channel 19 (Baine/Spring Lake Park) and Time-Warner Cable Channel 14 (Fridley).

The district’s Community Services Department will host the two forums. If you have questions, call 763-786-1338.

Update: Facilities Task Force, 2006 facilities improvement referendum
The district’s Facilities Task Force continues to meet, community meetings will be schedules this fall, and a facilities improvement plan will go the School Board in November or December. More.

Significant gains made in district test scores
District is making Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) as part of No Child Left Behind. In fact, it met AYP in 179 out of 180 subgroups measured in 2004-05. Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) results gains were both significant and across the board, in both reading and math, in grades 3, 5, and 7. More.

Patriot Day 2005: Honoring Our Heroes Night is September 11
The Patriot Day Committee would like to invite you to a moving, family-friendly event to “honor our heroes” at the fourth annual Patriot Day. Help honor the heroes of 9-11 on the fourth anniversary of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001.

Included, in this free, outdoor ceremony will be a parade of colors, fire and police department personnel, patriotic music, a special guest speaker, searchlights, bagpipers, fireworks, and a military flyover to close the ceremonies.

The event is Sunday, September 11, 2005 at 8:00 p.m. at Spring Lake Park High School’s Panther Stadium, 8000 Highway 65 NE, in Spring Lake Park. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.

Back-to-School Information
Back-to-School : Traffic Patterns
Permanent street changes at 81st Ave. and Highway 65 will require changes in driving habits . . . and your understanding. The City of Spring Lake Park is completing changes to the intersection of Highway 65 and 81st Ave. NE. (Near McDonald’s restaurant). The end result will require many students, parents, staff, and visitors to alter how they access the Spring Lake Park High School complex.

The changes are:
A median is being constructed on 81st Avenue, where it meets Highway 65, and near the service drive entrance at the northeast corner to the school and to the district offices.

It will no longer be possible to enter the parking lot via the service drive (left turn) when traveling west on 81st Ave from Highway 65.

It will no longer be possible to exit the parking lot via the service drive and turn left (west) on to 81st Ave.

The east side (student) parking lot can still be accessed from the north on eastbound 81st Ave., from southbound Highway 65 to 79th Street, and from Able Street to 79th Ave. on the south end of the complex. This parking lot can be exited on eastbound 81st Ave. and on 79th Ave.

This change in traffic patterns is being made for safety reasons. While we certainly support this, the change will necessitate a change in the driving habits of many. So, we’ll all have to make the best of it and we thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.

Back-to-School : 2005-06 school start and end times

Grades K-3
Kenneth Hall Elementary, Woodcrest Elementary,
Park Terrace Elementary
Grades K-3 & Kindergarten Plus..............9:15 a.m .- 3:35 p.m.
Morning Kindergarten............................9:15 a.m. -1 1:45 p.m.
Afternoon Kindergarten............................1:05 p.m. - 3:35 p.m.

Grades 4-5
Westwood Elementary……………….............8:55 a.m.-3:15 p.m

Grades 6-8
Westwood Middle School...........................8:05 a.m. - 2:40 p.m.

Grades 9-12
Spring Lake Park High School.....................7:25 a.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Learning Alternatives.................................7:15 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Daily hours vary. Call for specifics.

Eight file for four positions on the District 16 School Board
Eight district residents filed for four at-large positions on the seven-member District 16 School Board during the July 5-19 filing period.

Current Board members Al Yee Litt and Carlotta Stomberg did not file for re-election.

The eight candidates that will be on the ballot for the November 8 School Board General Election are:

A lot of time, passion, dedication, and effort results in a lot of school district history
The long-time efforts of three long-time school district residents, one now deceased, have resulted in the completion of “Spring Lake Park School District 16: Its Predecessors, Creation, and Growth Through 1976.” This nearly 300-page book was compiled and written over a 15-year period.

t is a result of the passion and commitment of Mr. Robert Lindquist, long-time resident, friend of education, and one of the district’s first School Board Chairs; Mr. Ross Johnson, former Director of Elementary Education and a former School Board member; and Mr. Ed Knalson, the District’s second Superintendent of Schools and also a former School Board member. Mr. Knalson passed away in 1995.

The book is an amazing story of the birth of a school district and the cities and townships around it. It is a must read for anyone who loves history and loves this special area of the Twin Cities.

Plans are being made to reproduce the book and make copies available for about $10 per copy plus shipping and handling. To find out more, contact Kathy Serpinas in the District Offices at 763-785-5513 or kserpi@district16.org

Facilities Utilization Task Force presents preliminary update at the June 28, 2005 School Board meeting
On June 28, the School Board heard a preliminary update from the 28-member citizen-staff Facilities Utilization Task Force.

The group was formed in January 2005 to visit, study, and review all district sites, prioritize the district’s facilities needs, and to make a final report and recommendations to the School Board by November-December 2005.

The Task Force began its work following nearly a one-year study by architects and engineers of the district’s mechanical and electrical systems; health, safety, and security; accessibility, technology needs, and academic issues related to facilities.

Three Task Force members, each a district resident and parent, provided the update to the Board. They were Dick Morin, John Stroebel, and Jodi Ruch.

A complete story on their report to the School Board and community can be found on the "Blueprint for Improving Facilities, Security, and Student Achievement" section of the web site.

Preliminary Report on Facilities Utilization Study is June 28
A school district where all schools are up-to-date and equipped for this generation of students and the generations of students to come. This is the goal of one ambitious endeavor of Spring Lake Park School District 16.

Available for viewing on the web:
April 26 Update on the district’s Blueprint for Facilities, Security, and Student Achievement
On Tuesday, April 26, Dr. Don Helmstetter, superintendent, presented brief an overview of the Facilities Utilization Study, Task Force, and progress-to-date on creating a Blueprint for Facilities, Security, and Student Achievement. The presentation, the first of many over the next year, was open to staff, parents, and community.

The approximately half-hour presentation will also begin airing on the district's Comcast Cable Channel 19 beginning Friday, April 19. It will air daily at 12:00 a.m., 6:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. In addition, it can be seen one-half hour prior to rebroadcasts of School Board Meetings: 9:30 am (M-W-F-Sat); and 7:30 pm (M-W-F-Sun).

In March 2004, District 16 began a Facilities Utilization Study. In January 2005, a school-community Task Force began meeting to review the findings of the initial study, tour all facilities, and begin the process of prioritizing the needs of district facilities, now and for the future.

Prioritization involves a list of deferred maintenance, curriculum, and technology projects that amount to over $50 million. Added to this list, as the Task Force continues its work, will be consideration of expanded or even new facilities.

A preliminary report to the School Board is expected in May or June of this year with a final report in December or January. A bond referendum in March 2006 or later is the likely result of the extensive study of district facilities.