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Page 1: Mora Public Schools March 2020 Volume 04, Number 04moraschools.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_365773... · MORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS 400 East Maple Avenue, Mora, MN 55051 Phone 320-679-6200

MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 1

Mora Public Schools March 2020 Volume 04, Number 04

Page 2: Mora Public Schools March 2020 Volume 04, Number 04moraschools.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_365773... · MORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS 400 East Maple Avenue, Mora, MN 55051 Phone 320-679-6200

2 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

MORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

400 East Maple Avenue, Mora, MN 55051

Phone 320-679-6200Fax 320-679-6209

DISTRICT OFFICE400 East Maple Ave.Mora, MN 55051320-679-6200FAX 320-679-6209

Mora High SchoolGrades 7-12400 East Maple Ave.Mora, MN 55051320-679-6200FAX 320-679-6238

Mora ALC400 East Maple Ave.Mora, MN 55051320-679-6250

Mora ElementaryGrades PreK-6200 Ninth Street NorthMora, MN 55051320-679-6200FAX 320-679-6258

DISTRICT WIDESuperintendent: Craig [email protected]

Executive Assistant/HR Coordinator:Kelly [email protected]

Activities Director:Kris [email protected]

Maintenance/Grounds:Chip [email protected]

Community Education Director:Kris [email protected]

Early Childhood Family Education Coordinator:Carrie [email protected]

Curriculum Director:Brenda [email protected]

Food Service Director:Barbara [email protected]

Transportation Assistant:Gayle [email protected]

Business/Finance Manager:Tamara [email protected]

Testing Coordinator:Darcy [email protected]

Director of Technology:Shane [email protected]

MARSS Coordinator:Jodi [email protected]

Payroll/AD Administrative Assistant:Jackie [email protected]

Staff Development Coordinator:Jackie [email protected]

Title One Coordinator:Brenda [email protected]

School Nurse for District:Anne Grahn, MS, RN, PHNLicensed School [email protected]

Health & Safety Coordinator:Chip [email protected]

District Title IX Officer:Craig Schultz, Supt. of [email protected]

District Human Rights Coordinator:Sara Rossow, MSW, [email protected]

District 504/Title II Coordinators:Brent Nelson - High [email protected]

Randy Qual [email protected]

Brenda Spartz [email protected]

HIGH SCHOOLHigh School Principal:Brent [email protected]

Assistant Principal:Nick [email protected]

HS Dean of Students:Jennifer [email protected]

Administrative Assistants:Grace [email protected]

Nancy [email protected]

ELEMENTARYElementary Principals:Brenda [email protected]

Randy [email protected]

Elementary Administrative Assistants:Lane [email protected]

Briana [email protected]

MPS CONTACT INFORMATION

Like us on Facebook: Mora Public Schools-Official

Follow us on Twitter: @MoraElemMustangs

Email: [email protected] the School App:

Mora Public Schools ISD 332Check out our webpage: www.moraschools.org

The school board meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, except in November and December. These meetings are held on the third Thursday due to the holidays. Meetings are held at the High School at 6:30 p.m. in room # 238 and are open to the public.

www.moraschools.org

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 3

Craig SchultzSuperintendent

of Schools

“Our progress as a nation can be

no swifter than our progress in

education. The human mind is

our fundamental resource.”

~ John F. Kennedy

Superintendent’s MessageCurrently, the school district is in the process of hiring the next superintendent. It has been an honor to serve as the super-intendent for the past 10 plus years. As I write this article, I can’t help but reflect on the past 11 years. The District has come from being identified as a district ‘in need of improvement’ to a leader in academic achievement in east-central Minnesota, with the elementary being identified as a ‘School of Excellence.’ This has been accomplished with a lot of hard work by both the students and the staff.

One thing we continue to work on is the high school facility. We have reached a point where we can no longer delay taking action to tackle the most acute problems that affect the safety and health of our stu-dents and teachers at Mora High School.

The 84-year-old building’s legacy is beyond dispute, as it has served thousands of stu-dents in our community over the decades. But a variety of health, infrastructure and safety issues have emerged that extend beyond what can be fixed through routine maintenance.

This, of course, is not a new issue for our residents. Four times voters have rejected new construction projects to overcome the deficiencies of our school buildings, the most recent being in November 2019. After years of study, community input, consultations with experts and voting by residents, the school board is convinced that the high school can never be renovat-ed into a modern school and that residents would prefer choosing between modest repairs at the current school or a new facility.

Further, we can’t keep holding the same referendum year after year. The commu-nity deserves a chance to compare other ideas to the proposal to build a new high school. With these factors in mind, should the May 12 referendum fail, the school board has approved a plan B to improve the environment for our students, teach-ers, and staff at the current high school. We already know the substantial list of repairs and replacements exceed our gen-eral maintenance budget. Therefore, the school board has adopted a repair plan to address the problems that we can afford to fix, using state-approved financing tools.

The plan will utilize bonds that will be repaid with our limited existing funds and tax increases that are allowed over limited periods of time. To be clear, the work will be narrow in scope and done in phases over the coming years.

The first phase of work will prioritize health and safety. After the cost of those repairs is repaid, future school boards can decide what will be included in Phase 2, which will likely have to include more building issues such as windows, doors, accessibility and a new boiler. Educational space enhancements could get on the list within the decade.

Before moving forward with this plan, school board members decided to give residents one more opportunity to vote on a new high school in May. The board believes voters should get the chance to compare the costs and benefits of a new high school with the board-approved repair plan.

If the May referendum fails, the district will be in a position to move quickly to imple-ment the repair plan, so improvements can be ready in time for fall 2021 classes. After May, the current school board will leave it to future board members to decide if there should ever be another referendum elec-tion for a new high school.

We encourage local residents to look care-fully at the costs and benefits of a new high school and compare them with the repair plan. Then, we hope that you deliver a clear message on the May ballot about whether the new high school is the best path for our community, or the repair plan should be implemented.

I want to thank the Mora community for continuing to work with us as we wrestle these difficult challenges. I would also like to say again how proud I am of our students, teachers, staff and personnel, including paraprofessionals, secretaries, administrators, food service, transporta-tion and custodians, among many oth-ers. I am grateful to work with a team of dedicated people who are invested in the success of our students and the future of our community.

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4 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

On Feb., 13, 2020, Mora Elementary put a celebratory exclamation point on the two year process that resulted in the school being recognized by the Minnesota Elementary Schools Principals’ Association (MESPA) as a School of Excellence, one of only eight schools in the state to be so recognized.

Students, staff and community members, dressed in Mustang blue, gathered in the Commons to enjoy music, dancing and a piece or two of cake (more if Mr. Qual and Ms. Spartz had their backs turned).

Asked what made Mora Elementary a School of Excellence, Jon Millerhagen, executive director of the MESPA, pointed to “the strong commitment from all parts of the staff, the enthusiasm of the students, the supportive community of parents and school board working together and the dedicated leadership of principals like Brenda Spartz and Randy Qual.”

Sounds like he knows us well.

A BIG Award

by Tim Peterson

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 5

Deserves a BIG Celebration

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6 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

Anne Grahn,MS, RN, PHN

Licensed School Nurse

High School:320-679-6200

x 5030

Elementary School:320-679-6200

x 4008

Nurses NotesWith illnesses still around us, please review the following recommendations from the

CDC & MN Department of Health on daily preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Protect yourself and others by washing your hands often with soap and water; covering your cough and sneeze; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Stay home when you are sick from school and activities.

• Do not return to school or work until you are feeling better and fever is gone for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe (e.g., telephones, doorknobs, lunch areas, countertops, copiers, etc.).

• WASH YOUR HANDS!

In order to help prevent the spread of illness PLEASE adhere to our 24-hour rule! If a student has a fever of 100, keep them home! *Students need to stay home until their fever has been gone without medicine for 24 hours. Returning to school too soon may slow recovery and make others sick!*--

I want to continue reminding parents of the new requirement from the MN Department of Health… Fall of 2020, all 12th grade students will need proof of having their second dose or booster shot of the meningococcal vaccination or a notarized exemption on file. A letter will be going home to all current 11th graders reminding them of this new requirement. If your student has already received their booster/second vaccination, please update the health office with that information. Students will be excluded on the first day of school if they haven’t received this vaccination and/or an exemption form is not on file.

With the warming weather, please remind elementary students to stay out of puddles while at recess! The health office does not have enough clothing for all students if they get wet. Students should continue to wear jackets, hats and mittens when outside!

Remember to check your student(s) heads for head lice! Please be checking your students on a weekly basis and remind them NOT to share hats, hair bindings, brushes/combs and/or hugs with their friends. Head lice is easily treated when caught early! Our head lice protocol can be found on the district webpage under health services if you have any questions. This goes for preschool up through 12th grade!

Have a great rest of your year, stay safe and healthy!

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 7

Stop Germs! Wash Your Hands.

• After using the bathroom

• Before, during, and after preparing food

• Before eating food

• Before and after caring for someone at home

who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea

• After changing diapers or cleaning up a child

who has used the toilet

• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing

• After touching an animal, animal feed, or

animal waste

• After handling pet food or pet treats

• After touching garbage

Wet your hands

with clean,

running water

(warm or cold),

turn off the tap,

and apply soap.

Lather your

hands by rubbing

them together

with the soap.

Be sure to lather

the backs of your

hands, between

your fingers, and

under your nails.

Scrub your

hands for at least

20 seconds.

Need a timer?

Hum the “Happy

Birthday” song

from beginning

to end twice.

Rinse hands

well under

clean, running

water.

Dry hands using

a clean towel or

air dry them.

Keeping hands clean is one of the most

important things we can do to stop the spread of germs and stay healthy.

www.cdc.gov/handwashingThis material was developed by CDC. The Life is Better with Clean Hands Campaign is made possible by a partnership between the CDC Foundation, GOJO, and Staples. HHS/CDC does not endorse commercial products, services, or companies. CS310027-A

How?

When?

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8 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

Jennifer Fussy

Jennifer is in her 25th year with Mora Schools; she is currently Mora High School’s Dean of Students and District Q-Comp Co-Coordinator. Asked

about her favorite moment during her time with us, Jennifer recalls receiving an award presented by a student that she was very connected to. Her most challenging moments are “ensuring the right support is given to students that

experience great loss in their life.” She is the proud parent of two children, Riley and Rita, both of whom attend and are involved at Mora High School.

Staff Spotlight Submitted by Tim Peterson with help from staffAs part of our effort to increase community outreach and to expand the features in the Mustang

Express, we would like to introduce our Staff Spotlight. Here we will get to know a broad cross-sec-tion of our staff. This is our third installment.

AngelaBaker Special Education Teacher

I am in my 19th year with the district and currently teach Literacy for 7th-12th grade and Executive Functions for 11th-12th grade.

I graduated from Braham High School in 1995 and then earned my teaching degree from Saint Cloud State University. I worked as

a Nursing Assistant and Home Health Care Aid while in High School and college; I have al-ways really liked help-ing people.

I started teaching at Mora High School in 2001. After a few years at the High School, I moved to the Elementa-ry School. I came back to the High School last year. My favorite part about being back at the High School is having some of the same stu-dents that I had in Kin-dergarten now as Sen-iors! I am passionate

about helping all stu-dents meet and exceed their goals. One of my favorite quotes is, "Fair is not everyone getting the same thing, but everyone getting what they need to be success-ful."

My favorite Mustang moment overlaps my most challenging: grad-uation. I love seeing the Senior graduates and the pre-school gradu-ates. The end and the beginning, the begin-ning and the end - It’s all a little bitter sweet and makes me emo-

tional every time.

When I am not at school, you can find me with my kids - Anna 19, Joel 14, and Silas 3. I spend a lot of time these days attending Joel's sports and keeping up with Silas. I have always loved fishing and be-ing outdoors. If I can't be out on a lake fishing somewhere, you will find me planting flow-ers or working in my garden. I enjoy hang-ing out with family and friends, and just enjoy-ing life!

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 9

SamanthaRushmeyer,School Counselor

Samantha Rushmeyer is in her sixth year at Mora High School. She currently serves as the School Counselor for

our 7th-12th graders whose last names begin with A through K. Her favorite Mustang moments are “When students write me notes and the senior classes sign the ‘M’ in my office. My most challenging experi-ences are navigating

through the wake of unkind people. When students are unkind to each other, it is never easy.” Four years ago, Samantha married her high school sweetheart, and together they have “two amazing children, Quinn and Teddy!”

Charley Farley,Custodian

My position here at the high school is called "Cleaning Custodian." My job starts when the students leave; the goal, whether I’m up to it or not (Mission Sometimes Possible), is to make the school presentable for another day of schooling. It's not too stressful, but some days can be very busy with after hour activities. Each custodian, here and at

the elementary school, has a section to clean. Most of these areas are 10's of thousands of square feet, which can be challenging at times. I've been doing this for six years, and will be doing this for another six years.

I joined the US Air Force in 1978 for an education in electronics. My enlistment landed me on the beaches of the South Pacific (Hawaii). I received a few battle scars on those beaches (sunburn, sand between my toes and

a tan so dark that my mom didn't recognize me). It was a tough tour (not). Got married to my wife Jackie in Alaska then moved to Texas for 11 years before landing here in Minnesota. I still feel that I'm a newcomer, and I've been here over 20 years. We have two kids and two grandkids.

My most memorable Mustang moment is when I took the garbage out to the dumpster one summer day (which is exciting in itself). I threw the bag on top of

a horde of wasps. When they came after me, I waved my arms about and cut my forearm, 15cm long and 9mm deep. I was rushed to the hospital by Curt Norgaard and received many stitches. Come and see it.

My hobbies are motorcycle riding and putting things together to make them work, including alternative energy sources, wind and solar, which right now are doing quite a lot of the heavy lifting at my house.

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10 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

MORA RESIDENTS HAVE A CHOICE ON MAY 12:

Build a new high school

or repair the current building

@MoraPublicSchools 320-679-6200www.MustangsUnited.org

MAY 2020MORA PUBLIC SCHOOLSREF

EREN

DUM

Referendum Plan

BY VOTING YES:increase to fund the construction of a new high school.

“Plan B” if voters reject the Referendum Plan

BY VOTING NO:

district will begin the “Plan B” repair plan that school

What residents get for their increased taxes

in 2023.

What residents get for their increased taxes

Other projects will be undertaken in future phases with additional tax impacts.

Referendum Plan Cost

$61.9 Million Total Cost

“Plan B” Cost

Phase 1 Repairs*: $12.9 Million

Monthly Tax Increase for a $137,000 home

$30

Monthly Tax Increase for a $137,000 home

$30

You must cast your ballot in order for your vote to be counted

Early Voting - March 27–May 11 Election Day - Tuesday, May 12

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 11

Brent NelsonHigh School

Principal

“Preparing self-directed

and resourceful learners able to thrive in a

changing global community” ~Mora Schools

Mission Statement

High School PrincipalAfter voters narrowly rejected

construction options that included a new high school, the Mora School Board has been working to determine the best way to address the pressing physical issues with our current high school.

Built in 1936, the school simply wasn’t designed in a way that supports modern-day teaching techniques and the variety of school services our students need. The aging building is past its useful life as a modern teaching facility because of a wide range of physical, health, safety and infrastructure deficiencies that can’t be fixed through routine maintenance.

With this in mind, school board members have approved a repair plan that will carry out a narrow range of repair projects over the next decade. The plan will be paid for through state-approved financial tools that school boards can use to address some of the issues. Before implementing the repair plan, however, the school board will ask the voters again to consider a new high school in May.

I want to take a moment to describe some differences between what the repair plan will accomplish compared to a new high school.

The repair plan would be carried out in Phases. The most critical health and safety infrastructure problems will get top priority based on the limited financial resources available to the school district. In phase 1, we expect to see improvements in air quality and safety. We won’t be able to tackle any projects that could directly improve instruction in the first phase.

One thing we do know is that repairs won’t transform Mora High School into a modern educational facility, and residents already have recognized that such an attempt would be a poor investment. But we owe it to our students, staff and

community to try to make the school building a healthier and safer place than it is today. We can no longer delay making these improvements to our building if we’re going to continue educating students here.

If the community chooses to approve the construction of a new high school, then students and staff will benefit from a safer and healthier environment, with reliable safety controls, handicap accessibility, and an effective security system. Students and teachers would work in an environment with efficient heating, cooling and ventilation systems – no more wearing winter coats during class.

On the education front, students and teachers will see a transformation. Our students will work together in collaborative learning spaces, and in classrooms designed for high school age students. Further, we will be able to provide better access to equipment and hands-on learning for vocational, ag, science, technology, engineering and math education, while working to build partnerships with area skills/jobs training programs as well. In summary, the best staff in the world would no longer be handcuffed by the limitations of our current facility.

Of course, this is a big decision for our community. I appreciate the effort of so many residents to learn about our challenges and that we are doing our best to prepare each and every student for life after graduation. I encourage you to learn more about the repair plan and the ballot proposal for a new high school at our referendum website -- www.mustangsunited.org. There, you will find more details to help you make an informed decision on what is the best choice for this community.

GO MUSTANGS!If you would like to arrange a tour of the high school to help answer questions for

the up coming referendum, please contact Nick Bakke at [email protected] or 320-515-6203.

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12 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

Each month students nominate staff for the Silver Mustang Award. Students select staff who inspire them everyday. Students often use words such as supportive, fun, caring and bring joy to the school day when nominating staff

Silver Mustang AwardKATELYN VICKERS

BRANDON OSTIEN

DEB BURSELL

ANNA PATENAUDE

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 13

FFAThe past few months

Mora FFA has been busy with career development events, service projects, college and industry tours! In November members traveled to Princeton High School to compete in the Milk Quality and Small Engines competitions. Small Engines participants included Eric Telander and Gavin Barnick. Milk Quality included Brandi Wellnitz, Annabel McGriff, Lauryn Showers, Morgan Nordaune, Kate Anderson, Ryleigh Rodenborg and Bridget Nolan.

In December we were busy with our annual cookie decorating for the residents at St. Clares. Students decorated 70 holiday cookies to spread cheer to the residents. They enjoy being able to bring a smile and some sweetness to the residents.

The same week we traveled to Fargo, North Dakota to tour the CASE IH plant, NDSU then stayed overnight and competed in Career Development Events the following morning. During the CASE tour students got to see the ins and outs of building a tractor. From the robotic welders; state of the art robotic plasma cutters and what it takes to work at such a facility. Students on this trip included Kennedy Klink, Bridget Nolan, Morgan Nordaune (Floriculture) Annabell McGriff, Lauryn Showers, Brandi Wellnitz,

Tayven Peterson and Eric Telander (Ag Mechanics)

We had members competing at the U of MN Invitational in Extemporaneous Speaking and Small Animals. Ria Edberg made her first Leadership Development Event appearance with Extemp Speaking and Lauryn Showers rocking at the small animals contest.

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14 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

It was a Crime Scene in the Kitchen

Students in Ms. Peterson’s class had to put on their detective hats as they entered into the CSI (Culinary Scene Investigation) class room. The kitchen lab was the scene of some horrific cooking hazards. Students needed to list the crimes of kitchen hazards that they could see.

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 15

Students were given a little extra time off on Friday, Feb. 21, so that Mora Public Schools could host this year’s Individual Section Wrestling Tournament. In all, 11 teams competed in front over over 1000 spectators during the two day event.

According to Kris Osterdyk the section wrestling tournaments rotate sites from year to year: “It was Mora's turn to host the individuals this year. Next year, Feb. 12, Mora will host the team semi-finals as well as the finals.”

Ms. Osterdyk added, “It took a lot of work getting ready to host the tournament. We ended school three hours early in order to accommodate

student safety as well as spectator parking. Spectators were allowed in the building after students were dismissed. It was a great experience for our wrestlers to be able to wrestle in the section tournament on their home mats.”

Two of our wrestlers qualified to go to the State Tournament: Connor Gmahl and Dom Adams. Additionally, Anthony Nelson, Avery Nelson, Cody Haggberg,

Tanner Grangruth and Jaden Ponto finished third. Tucker Hass placed fourth. Nathan Nelson and Parker Voss finished sixth.

As Ms. Osterdyk noted above, a lot of people put in a lot of time to make this happen, and by all accounts they knew what they were doing. Thank you and congratulations on a job well done.

Major Bill White wanted some new friends, and so he asked for a few Valentines. Tens of thousands responded, including dozens from Mora High School.

Major White is a retired U.S. Marine, 30 years active duty; a Purple Heart recipient (Battle of Iwo Jima); and a committed chronicler of his104 years on planet earth - He’s not saying whether this is his only stop. He currently resides in an assisted living facility in Stockton, California, where a fellow resident’s social media post got the valentines rolling.

The idea springs from Major White’s commitment to memories and experience. A lifelong scrapbooker, he credits his parents for his tendency toward preservation: “My parents taught me to conserve and observe memories as much as possible.” The thousands of cards, letters, and gifts will become “part of my history.”

From Stockton to Mora through the watchful eyes of Rose Nelson, media assistant at Mora High School. Rose came

across Major White's Valentine request and shared it with our students who, as mentioned above, took the opportunity to reach out, say thank you, and make a little history.

“Operation Valentine” Asked & Answeredby Tim Peterson

Sections Wrestling Tournamentby Tim Peterson

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16 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

In (and Near) Our Classrooms…

Egg Powered Zumba Yogaby Tim Peterson

This is a small sampling of what’s going on, in and near our classrooms. Our goal is to give our teachers an opportunity to share some of their favorite, their more interesting and their more innovative efforts to motivate and inform our students.

There we go. Now we know something. (Well, somebody knows something.)

I was walking through the hall the other day, and I came across some of our high school physics students dangling and then dropping eggs out of the third floor window. When asked, Mr. Carlstrom, physics teacher and egg-drop instigator, smiled: “Most eggs just sort of LAY there” – Bahdumpah!

These eggs, like most eggs, were protected, though not in hay and not under mother hen. The students, as part of the assignment, designed and built a protective cradle or an air arresting device to cushion the sudden stop at the end of the fall.

According to Mr. Carlstrom, in releasing the egg, the students unleash the egg’s potential energy, transforming it into kinetic energy. In cradling the egg, they divert some of the kinetic energy away from a colorful, sticky splat on the ground and into a series of vibrations and, quite probably, cracks and splinters, which are absorbed, if successful, not by the egg itself but by the protective cradle. Students attempting to slow the egg’s dissent with something like a parachute divert the kinetic energy through friction into the surrounding air. If you’re right now seeing a space capsule re-entering the atmosphere, blazing red and spitting fire... well, I’d be a little surprised, but the effect is similar, though maybe a tad more intense.

We don’t usually think of eggs as having energy, but they do, whether sitting (potential) or falling (kinetic). It’s all quite curious and an excellent example of one of the foundational laws of physics: energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transformed, the potential always being equivalent to the kinetic - Mind you, I’m taking a lot of this on faith - Bahdumpah!

Of course, Mr. Carlstrom’s exercise doesn’t have to be mired in technical physics. The students are not asked to do more than engineer a vessel to keep the egg from breaking. For this assignment anyway, they can remain entirely ignorant of all forms of energy and still find success and challenge in researching designs, measuring materials, and working as a member of a team. Egggggceptional!

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 17

Michelle Ostien, a multi-talented teacher of Math and Spanish likes to get her Spanish classes on their feet

“My favorite activity in Spanish class is Baile VIernes which means ‘Dance

Fridays.’ Every Friday, my Spanish 1 classes do Zumba for about 10 minutes and get up and dance with a partner or in small groups. We learn about popular singers in the Spanish-speaking cultures and also get a chance to hear well-known

songs amongst the 21 Spanish-speaking countries of the world. It is fun to see all students participate whether they like dancing or not!”

Finally...Renae Post, high school English teacher, finds that students will sometimes benefit from a little meditation or yoga:

“One of my favorite stress-relieving activities to do with my kids is performing 5 minutes of meditation or yoga. It helps kids de-stress and get out of their seats during class!”

Inside the classroom…

On Feb. 10, Senior High Math League concluded its season at Cambridge-Isanti High School with other teams in the Rum River East division. The Mora mathletes began their season in early October, playing host to the other division schools: Cambridge-Isanti, Chisago Lakes, Foley, North Branch and Princeton. There are approximately 90 students in the division. Mora participated in five meets, and finished fifth out of six teams in the division. The first place individual in the division goes on to compete in the State Tournament in March. This

year, Mora had an impressive showing with two individuals finishing in the top 10. This was a new feat accomplished for the Mora mathletes; senior Joah Schultz finished in fourth place, with Emma Lin (TingChen Lin, an exchange student from Thailand), finishing closely behind in fifth. Mackinzie Nelson, senior, was Mora’s top scoring team member after Joah and Emma. Each division school recognizes its first top scorer not in the top 10 of the division. Mora also competes in Section 7A and the first team in the section goes onto participate

in the State Tournament as well. Mora had a great showing this year and finished in third place, just a half point out of second out of seven teams total (Barnum, Moose Lake, Esko, Proctor, East Central and Carlton). Fourteen students in grades 10-12 participated in Math League this year, with

seven students representing the Mustangs at the final meet of the year. Students in grades 9-12 are welcome to join math league and information is available at the beginning of each school year. Senior High Math League is coached by Michelle Ostien.

Math-letes

(left to right) Coach Ostien, Emma Lin, Lily Peterson, Becky Molin, Mackinzie Nelson, Emmie Otto, Sierra Thomson, Joah Schultz

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18 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

Order of the Eastern Star Mora Chapter 158 has donated funds to the Mora Schools Food for Friends and the Food4ME backpack program. The MN Masonic Charities has matched their donation! Thank you to our supportive community!

Junior High Literacy class with their Peer Tutor- Kevin Bergstadt. This class really looked up to him. He was a great role model!

Donated Funds toFood for Friends and Food4ME

Mora ALC students accomplish real world learning every day through individual and team learning. Students are doing their taxes as contributing citizens in our Mora community. Great job preparing for adulting life after high school!

Mora Mora ALCALC

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 19

Samantha Rushmeyer School Counselor

[email protected]

Sarah Ellstrom School Counselor

[email protected]

MHS CounselorsGreetings from the Mora High School Counseling Office!

Each year when the counselors create the master schedule, it is done so to accommodate the course selections made by students in the spring. Staffing decisions are made, textbooks are purchased and rooms are assigned based on what students register for. When a student registers for a class, that student has a responsibility to remain in that course and complete it. Each year we are running into more students that wish to switch their schedule around, which puts teachers, other students, classrooms, and the counselors in a bind. Next year we will be trying an alternate process to try and eliminate some of the issues we have been facing. Here is a snapshot of the schedule change process for next school year:

May 29: The last day for students to change their class requests for the upcoming school year. Up until May 29th, students may come into the counseling office and adjust their requests for the 2020-2021 school year.

Aug. 31: Schedules for the 2020-2021 school year will be available via StudentVue.

Aug. 31- September 9: Change/appeal window will open for students. There will be a form available online for students to fill out to request a schedule change. This form will go to a team that will approve or deny the schedule change. If the student requested the course that they are wishing to change, the appeal may be denied.

Sept. 10-11: Approved schedule change appeals will be adjusted on student schedules.

Students are allowed to change errors in their schedules at any time. We are hoping this will make for a much smoother process during schedule change time and will help students register for courses that they are truly interested in taking!

ClassSchedule

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20 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

Quantity Item Price

String Cheese GF .35 ea.

Cheese-its PF .40 ea.

Chex Chocolate Carmel SnackPF

.45 ea.

Chocolate Chip Granola BarPF/GF .30 ea.

Popcorn PF/GF .40 ea.

Yogurt Cup(Mixed Berry) PF/GF .35 ea.

Animal Crackers PF .30 ea.

Whole Fresh Fruit GF .50 ea.

Apple Frudels PF.60 ea.

Cherry Frudels PF.60 ea.

Rice Krispie Bar GF.60 ea.

Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie BarGF .60 ea.

Apple Slices PF/GF .40 ea.

Carrots and Dip .40 ea.

CLASSROOM CATERING

GGUIDELINESS

Student Name____________________

Classroom Teacher__________________

Date Needed______________

Check Number ____________

Payment Amount__________

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

All items meet or exceed the USDA Smart Snack inSchool nutrition standards. Items available forpurchase by school districts may have differentingredients and nutritional value than the sameitems you are able to purchase in the store.Items may vary based on availability. Prices will beupdated when necessaryGF= Gluten Free PF= Peanut Free

MENU

Earlier this fall, students received a backpack Friday flyer from the food service department. Classroom Catering is now available at Mora Elementary School! The food service department would like to

help make life a little less hectic by taking the stress out of bringing treats to your child’s classroom for celebrations. When you wish to host treats the food service department will help take care of you.

Please see the list on the flyer for items available and their prices. Treats will be delivered to classrooms in a nice basket on the day of your choosing.

Classroom Catering

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 21

Surgery DayMrs. Miller’s kindergartners turned

their classroom into a surgery room on Friday, Feb. 21. The kids scrubbed down and suited up prior to entering the room. With their patient folders in hand, they were ready to tackle each station. The kids practiced addition, syllables, colors and CVC words during each station. They also worked on their fine motor skills through sewing and tweezing. Their favorite station was using a stethoscope to listen for syllables in a word. This day would not have been possible without parent donations and volunteers.

Mrs. Miller’s Class Reporting for Surgery

Sewing on color words to their patients

Listening for syllables Finding the missing number bond

Piecing together their patients CVC name

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22 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

6th Grade Band and Choir Concert:

On Thursday Feb. 6, the sixth grade choir and band performed their Winter Concert. They performed music from various genres, both groups performed a song from the movie Frozen. The sixth grade choir created and premiered their own arrangement of the song Hine Ma Tov.

Elementary MusicKindergarten Music:

Students in Mrs. Miller's class learned a new circle game called Let Us Chase the Squirrel. They enjoyed taking turns being a squirrel hunter, and running away as a squirrel. Students learned this game as part of their musical changes unit, where they learned about the different ways songs can change.

3rd Grade:Students in Mr.

Tvedt's class had fun creating different poses to make while singing the song Uncle Joe. The students got to be in three different groups and work together and make a pose to do during their part of the song. Students learned this song as a part of their unit on Solfege words.

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 23

Mora Elementary’s Knowledge Bowl Team finished this year’s competition in stellar fashion, taking first and second at all of their meets.

The team’s advisor, Richard Thomas, Mora Elementary music teacher, explains the format of the competition and the types of questions asked:

Each school is divided into three teams of six, teams 1, 2 and 3. The week before the meet, each team completes a written form for the competition, a multiple-choice test with questions similar to those they will be asked during the meets. At the meet, the teams are separated by their scores on the written rounds and put into rooms based on their rankings for the oral rounds (trivia style). Each meet has three oral rounds. In the oral rounds, a reader reads the question, and teams buzz in when they know the answer. Teams earn points when they are correct. After each round, the teams are re-sorted by rank. After the third round, the team with the

most points overall for that meet (written + 3 oral rounds) is the winner.

Questions cover all sorts of topics including math, the arts, history, geography, as well as literature. Example Question: Meteorology - What occurs when water droplets in clouds coalesce and become heavy enough to fall? Answer: precipitation (rain, snow).

I asked Mr. Thomas what he felt were the team’s main strengths and the year’s highlights:Our team's main strength is being able to buzz in quickly, as well as accurately interpret the unread portions of the questions - Once a team buzzes, the reader stops wherever they are in the question. Our team executed both skills exceptionally well this year.

And, of course, the year’s biggest

highlight was being the top three teams for just about all of the oral rounds, which means that our three teams were in the top room pretty much every round. The other highlight is that our team took first and second at all our meets and took first, second and third at our home meet.

Congratulations Knowledge Bowlers. Keep dishin’ it out.

First Place: Rush City, Pine City and our home meet in Mora!

Dishin’ It Out! by Tim Peterson

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24 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

Do You Want toBuild a Snowman?

Students at Mrs. Gams' class built a snowfriend to help keep an eye on all those excellent readers. They worked together as a team to make two wonderful friends.

I Love to Read

Mrs. Gams ThirdGradeClass

February is I Love to Read month but the students in Mrs. Gams’ class are learning to be life long readers.

Snuggle Up and Read Red Hot Readers

Mr. Nelson Guest Reader

Mitchell Bentler - Marine & Mora Resident Reading to Students in Mrs. Gams' 3rd Grade ClassWorld Read Aloud Day

Hats On for Reading

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 25

Master Gardeners working with third grade classes to teach about tree classification.

First Grade Authors and IllustratorsMrs. Rydberg's first grade class wrote and illustrated their own personal narratives during Writer's Workshop. Each personal

narrative told about a true life event that had to have a specific problem and a resolution. Students proudly shared their stories with their first grade friends!

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26 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

Ms. Lukenbill’s Fourth Graders... Guest readers for I Love to Read Month include: Grandma Jan Falk and Minnesota Honor Society member, Sage Lukenbill.

Once again the Kanabec County Sheriff 's Office was kind enough to come out and show off their reading skills to our elementary students. Who doesn’t like a good book read by those that protect and serve us?

I Love to Read Month

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 27

Kris OsterdykActivities Director

If it doesn't challenge youIt doesn't change you.

- Fred Devito

Upcoming Community Education Events

www.moraschools.org

Mora High School Students Compete for Triple "A" Award

Two Mora High School seniors, Genevieve Woods and Kolton Brodal were selected to represent Mora at the Sub-Section 18 Triple "A" contest (Academics, Arts and Athletics) on Wednesday, Jan. 22, in St. Cloud.

For over two decades, the Minnesota State High School League has sponsored a Triple "A" Award. The purpose of such an award is to recognize and honor exceptional high school seniors who have excelled in the areas of Academics, Athletics and the Arts.

Woods is an active member in band. She has participated in small ensemble groups and is section leader. Genevieve has participated on the swim/dive team, Nordic skiing (receiving All Conference Honors) and softball. She has participated in two state tournaments for Nordic skiing. As busy as she is, Genevieve holds a 4.04 GPA.

Brodal also holds a 4.04 GPA. He is an active member in band and has competed in large group contests. He also participated in football, hockey and baseball. Kolton has received numerous All Conference Honors.

Triple "A" Award recipients are selected by a multi-level process involving the League's member schools and administrative regions. League officials announced the four award recipients (a girl and a boy from both Class "A" and Class "AA" schools) at an on-court recognition ceremony held at the State Basketball Tournament. Each award recipient received a four-year renewable scholarship for $1,000.

Genevieve Woods Kolton Brodal

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28 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

The child and babysitting Safety (CABS) program from the American Safety and Health Institute gives everything you need to know for safe and successful babysitting. The YouTube "vlogger" style presentation of the video brings a youthful and high-energy spirit to the program content, and the colorful magazine format of the student book makes learning fun. From getting started with your business, to working with parents and children, to key safety, caregiving and first aid tips, CABS will help set you up for babysitting success. Students must be present for the entire class and complete achievement of the core learning objectives to receive certification valid for two years. Instructor provides baby dolls, bottles, diaper supplies for skills participation. Students attend this class independently. Parents are encouraged to review the take home information and discuss it with their child.

Start planning your night out...we have babysitters lined up.

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 29

ADULT BASIC EDUCATION ABE PROGRAMOur main office is located at:Adult Enrichment Center540 5th Avenue NWCambridge, MN 55008Adult Basic Education is for y-o-u if you are interested in:• Learning English • Getting a GED®• Brushing up on skills before enrolling in college• Finishing high school and receiving your high school diplo-ma• Gaining better work skills• Learning basic technology skills• Classes are free.If you are interested in earning a GED®, it is recommended that you study for the test and also, take a practice test before you register for the official test. To test you must have a valid Driver’s License or State ID.Please contact Caroline, ABE Program Coordinator, at 763-689-6228 or e-mail at [email protected] for more information or to schedule your orientation session that must be completed before you begin attending classes.ABE/GED CLASS SITESCAMBRIDGE-ISANTI • Adult Enrichment CenterC540 5th Avenue NW, CambridgeAndrea, Instructor 763.552.6244PRINCETON • Community Education Office1506 First Street, PrincetonAngie, Instructor 763.389.6196

ADULT DIPLOMA CLASS AND SCHEDULEThis class offers complete grad-uation requirements for individ-ual's graduation year to earn a Mora Schools Diploma.MORA•Mora High School Alternative Learning Center400 Maple Ave E, Mora (Enter on West Side door D1, Room 290)Karen Felger 320-679.6250Tuesdays, 3-7 p.m.

COOKING WITH DIANNA"The heart of our home is our kitchen, where we prepare deli-cious and nutritious meals. It is the place where family gathers around the table to be nourished in body and soul. It's my motivation to inspire women to come back to their kitchens, learning to feed their families well, and to pass those skills on to their children. On this website, you'll find recipes, with made-from-scratch, whole food ingredients. You'll access tutorials on how to make home-made broths, stocks and soups; how to cook beans and legumes; the how-to of breadmaking, sourdoughs, yogurt and sprout-ing, and reasons to choose organ-ic --and ways to afford it. I'll also recommend tools that help me in accomplishing my homemaking tasks." Dianna Kasprzak Dianna offers an array of cook-ing and wellness classes. Click on the link below to go to her website and see all that she has to offer in her kitchen. To view Cooking With Dianna's class offerings, go to https://cookingwithdianna0.wix-site.com/cookingwithdianna

CLASSROOM DRIVERS EDStudents must be 15 years of age by the end of the session and if needed, priority will be given according to birthdate. The cost of $80 is due at the time of registration. This class will be filled on a first-come-first-serve basis. Anyone wishing to par-ticipate in this class must have their registration and payment to the District Office by noon on the first day of class. Daily Attendance is Mandatory!SUMMER SESSION - 2020Instructor: Tom YoungblomLocation: High School Room 310Dates: June 8, 10, 11, 15, 17, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26Time: 8-1 amCost: $80

GED TESTINGGED Now Free for Minnesotans If you live in Minnesota and are interested in taking the General Educational Development (GED) Test, it is now free to anyone living in the state through June 30, 2016. You can either regis-ter online at the GED website (www.ged.com)or contact your local school district to connect with their Adult Basic Education program. Staff at each program will be able to walk you through the registration process and also provide resources and classes to prepare for taking the test.

MUSTANG CAREIn the Mustang Care program, we provide a home-like atmo-sphere where the focus is placed on the needs of the child grades K-6. Children have the oppor-tunity to choose from a variety of activities, including sports, arts and crafts, puzzles, games and movies. Quiet areas are also available for homework and reading. Students are discour-aged from bringing any elec-tronic devices such as iPads, cell phones, games, etc. Mustang Care personnel will not be responsible for any lost, sto-len, or damaged items including electronics; supervisors have the right to ask students to put them away if they are causing a distur-bance. ** Due to life-threatening nut allergies, we ask you NOT to send snacks that contain nuts or tree nuts of any sort.Hours: Before school, 6:30 a.m. until 8:00 a.m.After school from school dis-missal until 6:00 p.m.Location: Morning & afternoon Mustang Care will be held at the Mora Elementary School in the new (North) gym. Registration: If you would like your child(ren) to participate in the Mustang Care program, stop at Mora Elementary, or you may call 320-679-6200.Fees: $2.75/hr per child. Effective July 1, 2019, fees will be calculated per every 30 min-utes (1/2 hour - $1.38; full hour - $2.75). A late fee of $2.75 per

every 15 minutes will be charged for any family picking up their child(ren) after 6 p.m. If you attend Mustang Care on a regular basis, you must pay each Friday. If you only attend occasionally, you must pay at the end of that day.School Closings:1. When school is cancelled, there will be no morning or afternoon Mustang Care.2. In the event Mora Public Schools has a late start due to weather, there will be no morn-ing Mustang Care. 3. In the event Mora Public Schools closes early, there will be no afternoon Mustang Care.Please note: It is the responsi-bility of the parent to have other arrangements on file in the elementary school office for the child/children when Mustang Care is cancelled due to an early closing. Mustang Care observes Mora Public Schools' emergency closings on the school website (www.moraschools.org) and is announced on the following radio stations: WCCO Radio 830 AM, WCMP 1350 AM and 100.9 FM. If you have any questions, please contact Kris Osterdyk at 320-679-6200. We have been working on mak-ing it easier for our parents to contact our Mustang Care staff during, before and after school hours.Our school emails are a great way to contact us with questions and concerns. You may contact our Mustang Care supervisor Becky Jones at [email protected] also have a new phone exclu-sively for Mustang Care. Parents may call during Mustang Care hours only at the number of 320-515-0967. We would appreciate you only use this number for urgent matters. This will make it easier for you to contact us while your child is at Mustang Care, and for us to be able to contact our parents if need be. Thank you.

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30 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020

OPEN LIBRARYThe Mora High School Library is available at no cost to students and the public Monday - Friday from 3-5 p.m.The books and magazine collec-tions are available, however, the computer and Internet access is not available. Open Library will be available on school days only.Supervisor: Jane Oelfke Location: MHS Room 302Dates: Monday – Friday (school days only)Time: 3-5 p.m.Cost: No Fee, Registration not necessary

WALKING THE HALLSLocation: Mora High School & Elementary SchoolDates: Monday-Friday, SCHOOL DAYS ONLY, Nov.-AprilTimes: 3:15-5:30 p.m.

ORIGAMI FOR MORA STUDENTS:April 6, 20, 27 (must attend all 3) Spider:Should take two sessions, but might need a third. Free fold and share-time with any remaining time. Difficulty level 4.May 4, 11, 18 (must attend all 3) Squirrel:Should take two sessions, but might need a third. Free fold and share-time with any remaining time. Difficulty level 4.

PICKLEBALLCourt 6 in the Elementary School6:15-8:15p.m.March 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30April 2, 6, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30May 4, 7, 18, 21$3.00 per night. No registration necessary.

THRIVENT FINANCIALPREPARING FOR LONG TERM CARE: Did you know developing a long - term care strategy can help you:Preserve your independence?Protect your income and assets?Reassure your family about the future?Event Details: Tuesday, March 24, 2020 6 p.m. MHS Board Room Enter Through Door A3 400 Maple Ave. EMora, MN 55051Call Aimee at 320-679-6200

THRIVENT FINANCIALKEEPING THE FARM IN THE FAMILY:You can’t take it with you, but you can make a plan while you’re here. Attend Keeping the Farm in the family to gain the basic understanding of how to identify and overcome transition obsta-cles, help protect your assets, and develop a strategy to smoothly transition your cherished place to help maintain family harmony.Event Details:Tuesday April 21, 2020Pre Register by April. 16 6 p.m. MHS Board RoomEnter Through Door A3400 Maple Ave EMora, MNCall Aimee at 320-679-6200

THRIVENT FINANCIAL5 KEYS TO RETIRING FEARLESSLYRetirement: Finally in sight?What do you need to know before your last paycheck?5 keys to retiring fearlessly helps you unlock a retirement where you could have confidence in your ability to live out your dreams.Event Details:Tuesday, May 19, 2019 6 p.m. MHS Board Room Enter Through Door A3400 Maple Ave. EMora, MN 55051Call Aimee at 320-679-6200

55+ DRIVER IMPROVEMENTST. Cloud State University Driver Improvement ProgramAre You 55+This course will save you 10% on your auto insurance for 3 years.There are no written or behind the wheel tests.8 hour class for the first time students.4 hour refresher for the repeat student.To register for these or other classes in your area call the num-ber below or www.mnsafetycen-ter.orgMHS Board Room 238,400 Maple Ave. E., Mora, MN Enter Through Door A3First time participants must attend both October 22 and 23 class.Oct. 22, 2020 - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Oct. 23, 2020 - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.REFRESHER CLASSESApril 16, 2020 - - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Sept. 15, 2020 - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Oct. 13, 2020 - 5:30-9 p.m.TOLL FREE: 1-888-234-1294 OR 1-320-308-1400

OPEN GYM Dates: Sundays Mar. 22, 29 (3:30-5:30)April 5, 19, 26 (6-9 p.m.)Location: Wellness Center (located at the Elementary School - Enter Door D1)Activities: BasketballCost: $2 per personAges: Open to all ages; 6th grade and under must be accompanied by an adult

Community Education Policy Registration and Fees: Pre-paid registration is required. Most registrations are due a minimum of one week prior to the class starting date. Note that many classes fill quickly, and others may be canceled due to insufficient registration.How to Register: Some classes offer online registration. Visit our website at www.moraschools.org/district/communityeducation Visit us in the District Office at Mora High School, or mail registration forms with payment to:

Community Education MHS400 E Maple Ave., Mora, MN 55051

Please be sure to include a phone number where you can be reached during the day.Fees are not refundable after the registration due date, unless the class is canceled due to insufficient enrollment. Confirmations are not sent out; however, the district office will notify applicants if a class is full or has been canceled. If supplies are required, you may choose to confirm that the class will be offered before making a purchase. Call the district office at 320-679-6200 to confirm registration and class availability.

Individual Cancellations and Refunds: A full refund will be issued if a class is canceled by the district office. All other cancellations are subject to a $5 processing fee. To receive a refund, less the processing fee, notify the district office at least three business days before a class begins unless a specific cancellation deadline is listed. No refund will be issued for a cancellation received less than three business days before a class begins.

INSTRUCTORS WANTED:Do you have a skill or hobby you would like to share with the Mora Area Community? All types of classes are welcome.If interested contact Kris Osterdyk at 320-679-6200.

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MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020 31

☐ ☐

PERSONAL INFORMATION

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION (PLEASE LIST TWO CONTACTS)

Membership is based on a calendar year (January-December) and is non-refundable and nontransferable. Dues are not deductible as a charitable contribution for federal tax purposes, but may be deductible as a business expense.

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY:

☐ ☐ ☐

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1.Member agrees to pay a $25 registration fee, to be paid at the time Member submits this

Application, to cover the cost of abackground study, membership card, and processing fee. A

$39 fee will be assessed on returned checks. In the event Memberloses his/her membership

card, Member must report the loss to the Community Education Director immediately so it can

bedisabled. Member is responsible for the cost of a new membership card, which is $10.

2.Member agrees to an annual BCA Criminal History Data and Predatory Offender Registration

background check, which takesapproximately two weeks to complete (see “Informed

Consent” form). You will be emailed when your background study iscomplete, and your

membership card is ready for pick up.

3.The Facility reserves the right to decline and/or terminate membership upon notification of

unfavorable background check. IfMember is arrested on felony charges, it is his/her responsi-

bility to report this to the Community Education Director.

4.Member may cancel his/her membership at any time by providing written notice of the

cancellation to the CommunityEducation Director. Upon cancellation, Member must return

his/her membership card to the Community Education Director.

5.Memberships are open to individuals who have attained the age of eighteen (18) years. It

shall be the Facility’s policy to acceptapplications for membership from any individual without

regard to race, sexual orientation, creed, color, age (over 18), religion,disability, ancestry,

gender, sex or national origin or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

6.Member’s membership is non-transferrable and non-refundable. A membership is personal

to each individual Member. Membershall not share, sell, lend, or otherwise allow another

person to use, his/her membership card. Any Member found to be doing soshall have his/

her membership revoked. Each Member may bring a guest up to (six) 6 times a year. Guests

are not allowed onstudent days between the hours of 7:45 a.m.-3:15p.m. Guests must sign in

upon arrival with Member at the Facility’s mainentrance. With the exception of the six guests

allowed per year, Members shall not allow non-members access to the Facility. Ifa Member/

Parent has a child under the age of 18, they are allowed to use the walking track accompanied

by a parent at nocharge.

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY: $25 fee paid: Date: _____________

Amount $_____________ Cash � CC � Check � # ___________

Member ID # ____________________________

Background study complete ___________

7.Member agrees that his or her use of The Facility will be undertaken at his or her own risk.

The Facility expressly disclaims allwarranties, express or implied, regarding the walking

track, equipment, or other amenities available at The Facility. Memberfurther agrees that

The Facility and Independent School District No. 332, their owners, members, managers,

employees,representatives and agents will not be liable for any damages – direct, consequen-

tial, exemplary, special, punitive, or otherwise–arising from personal injuries sustained by

Member on or about The Facility’s premises.

8.Member accepts full responsibility for any injuries or damages that may occur to the Member

on or about the Facility’spremises. Member further agrees that The Facility will not be liable

for any damage, loss or theft of Member’s personalproperty. Member does hereby fully and

forever release, waive, and discharge The Facility, and Independent School DistrictNo. 332,

their owners, members, managers, employees, representatives, and agents from any and all

liability, claims, demands,damages, rights of action, or causes of action, present or future,

whether they be known or unknown, anticipated, orunanticipated, resulting from or arising

out of Member’s use or intended use of The Facility.

9.In the event of a Member injury, Member agrees to be examined at Member’s sole expense

by a licensed physician. Withinseven (7) days of a Member injury, Member agrees to complete

and return the Wellness Center Incident Report Form to TheFacility. Forms are available at the

main entrance of the Facility, and should be returned to the District Office in person or bymail

at 400 Maple Ave. E, Mora, MN 55051.

10.The Facility reserves the right, and without prior notice to Member, to temporarily close The

Facility or a portion thereof, forcleaning, remodeling, improvements, repairs, private events,

or inclement weather. See the Wellness Center Calendar on MoraSchools’ website for calendar

of events, and to check hours and availability. www.moraschools.org

11.Member agrees to conduct himself or herself in a quiet, well-mannered fashion while on

The Facility’s premises. Radios, CDplayers or other sound systems are to be played at a level

that does not disturb the other users of The Facility.

12.Member’s name, address, phone number, email address, social security number, and any

other information provided to theFacility are held in strict confidence. The Facility will only

use this personal information:

a)to perform a background study with the BCA;

b)to provide Member with requested information, products and services;

c)to notify Member about changes to the Facility’s services.

13.The Facility will never sell or share Member’s personal information with anyone else.

14.Gambling, alcohol, smoking and tobacco use or the possession of weapons, intoxicants and

illegal chemicals in the Facility,school district buildings or on school property, including school

parking lots, is prohibited.

15.Proper footwear must be worn at all times while using the walking track. No high heels,

spikes or cleats are allowed.

16.Only water is allowed on the walking track. No other food or drink, including Gatorade,

Powerade, etc., is allowed on thewalking track.

17.Strollers are allowed on the walking track, but no other children’s ride-on toys will be

allowed.

18.MEMBERS MAY NOT LEAVE CHILDREN UNATTENDED. MEMBERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR

CHILDRENAT ALL TIMES.

General Information To Register: Registration form may be done in person at the Mora High

School District Office, 400 Maple Ave. E., Mora, MN 55051 or online (see below). The informed

consent form for the background study cannot be done online; it must be printed, filled

out and paper copy turned in to District Office. Payment may be made online ahead of time

(below), or in person at the District Office. Checks may be made out to Mora Public Schools.

Results from background study may take up to three weeks. You will be notified by email

when your background study is complete. At that time, your membership will be activated and

you may pick up your membership card at the District Office.

Renewing Members: Renewal fees of $25 are due by January 1 of each year. A new background

study is required. If renewal fee has not been paid by January 10, your membership will be

cancelled and your card will no longer work. Payment may be made online ahead of time

(below), or in person at the District Office. Checks may be made out to Mora Public Schools.

Security: Surveillance cameras are in use at all times.

Hours of Operation: 5 AM to 10 PM, daily

Other use of facilities: Please contact the District Office at 320-679-6200 for other facility uses.

Most Welia Health events and classes, along with access to the walking track, are included in

your membership fee; however certainclasses may incur a charge.

In Case of Emergency: AED machine are located on the upper walking track.

Page 32: Mora Public Schools March 2020 Volume 04, Number 04moraschools.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_365773... · MORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS 400 East Maple Avenue, Mora, MN 55051 Phone 320-679-6200

32 MUSTANG EXPRESS March 2020


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