As we begin the month of October it is important to note the great successes we have experienced here at Kenyon-Wanamingo!
Recently last month you may have noticed some local newspapers reported on some of our local district’s MCA scores. The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) are state tests in reading, mathematics, and science that are used to meet federal and state legislative requirements. The tests are administered every year in the Spring to measure student performance relative to the Minnesota Academic Standards that specify what students in a particular grade should know and be able to do. Reading and mathematics tests are administered in grades 3–8 and high school (students in grade 10 take the Reading MCA, and students in grade 11 take the Mathematics MCA). The Science MCA is administered to students in grades 5 and 8 and in the high school grade when students take a life science or biology course. Our students showed growth in all three subject areas! We tip our hats to the hard work of our students and educators in a job well done.
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Our district succeeds in striving to work towards ensuring every child is welcomed into our safe schools free from harassment and bullying. One of the ways we can help reduce bullying is to improve relationships. A good way to do this is to incorporate social and emotional learning into the school day. All our students from preschool through twelfth grade are learning these imperative skills. We know that schools are social places where relationships occur, and that relationship building is part of a foundation of learning. Students and staff encourage each other throughout the days to adhere to a behavior purpose. This purpose is to demonstrate Honor and respect for yourself, others, and your school. Show Integrity by doing what is right when no one is looking. Achieve Excellence by working to meet your full potential.
We at Kenyon-Wanamingo Public Schools believe in our mission which is to create a caring partnership among students, family, and community to maximize each learner’s academic, physical, and social development. We are successful in this endeavor because of those who take the time to be active in a student’s learning experience. Our K-W community provides a vital impact on how students can chart their future. Over the last couple of years I have witnessed many stakeholders show up to events, offer words of encouragement, donate time and money, and simply pass down their stories of success. All of us play a role in the learning of our most precious resource, the student. We are in this together and I thank you in this partnership.
Bryan Boysen
Superintendent and Elementary Principal
Kenyon-Wanamingo Public Schools – ISD 2172
