Thursday, 1-29-26
Sunshine Updates
- Only two days remain to render your opinion on the Staff Bus Adventure
- See you at Dick's Bar after school today for Happy Hour!
- Will-O-Mania tomorrow morning will be in the gymnasium!
SAVE THE DATE! Student Led Career Fair will be on Friday April 10th from 2:30-3:30.
Grades 2-4 are invited to join us anytime during that time slot. Kinder & 1st will have guest speakers in their classroom.
2nd Annual "Love Your Neighbor" Food Drive
February 9-13th
Collecting this year for Operation Help St. Croix
Focusing on 5 most requested foods: Hamburger Helper, Rice-A-Roni, Individual pasta cups, Trail mix and snack crackers.
Student Council will be sharing out information for students!
STICKY NOTE SHAKE-OFF CHALLENGE!
Get ready, because tomorrow’s All-School Meeting is about to get unstuck in the most hilarious way possible!
We’re hosting the ultimate Sticky Note Shake-Off Challenge, where brave teachers will attempt to shake, wiggle, twist, and shimmy off as many Post-it notes as they can. That’s right — they’ll be completely covered, and it’s their job to dance them off!
But wait… they can’t do it alone 
Each teacher will need a helper to make sure they are properly and thoroughly noted up before the shaking begins. Competitors will need to pick a helper. Precision stickiness is key.
Our Courageous Competitors:
Mrs. Brackemyer
Ms. Buege
Ms. Stengl
Ms. Ruettimann
Mrs. Jacobson
Mr. Strapon
Mrs. Kreibich
Mrs. Mohrland
These fearless participants will give it their all in the battle against adhesive office supplies.
On Deck (Sticky Note Sub Squad):
If anyone is unable to fulfill their shake-off destiny, our alternate Mrs. Everson is ready to leap into action!!
Expect big moves, dramatic shakes, unexpected strategies, and possibly some questionable dancing. Audience members, prepare to cheer loudly — moral support may increase note-shedding performance (no scientific proof, but we believe).
Who will reign supreme as the Ultimate Sticky Note Shaker? There’s only one way to find out…
Highlights:
Read Around Willow - let Sue or Julie know if you have questions
TAC - notes from meeting
YAD - theme is Learnin' the Ropes; jump rope group coming, Author visit
Fine Arts Night - April 10th; Enchanted Forest theme; looking for artificial trees
Forward Testing - proctor training on Feb. 12 (coming soon!!)
End of Year - May 29 Camp St. Croix, May 31 community celebration
Winter Olympics - covered in PE
Sunshine - Happy Hour tonight at Dick’s, Willomania tomorrow morning
Parent Group: Family Pizza/BINGO Night (Feb. 13th) - get kids excited!
Second Recess - Walkies
Please grab a walkie from a classroom or the office when you head out so we can contact teachers outside. Thanks.
District Boundary Information
Yellowstone Challenge: Congrats, Kylee!
Week 2 proved one thing: cold weather won’t stop us! While total miles dipped a bit (we’re blaming the arctic blast), participation went up and we’ll count that as a win. 292 of 376 people submitted miles, adding up to 7,941 total miles. Fun fact: Most New Year’s resolutions don’t survive January. Ours? Still going strong. We’re not quitters, We’re committed and keeping it going. So, bundle up, keep stepping, and let’s crush the next six weeks together!
Congratulations to our Week 2 drawing winners!
Lauren Seifert - River Crest
Kylee Ruettimann - Willow River
Paul Krasin - Hudson Prairie
Zoe Welnetz - Middle School
Stephanie Murray - Middle School
Erin Bockelman - High School
Alissa Miller - District-Wide Elementary
Shayna Manikowski - North Hudson
If you know someone who hasn’t joined yet, it’s not too late. Encourage your coworkers to jump in and start walking with us. Walk Through Yellowstone Staff Wellbeing Challenge Sign Up
Wednesday, 1-28-26
All School Meeting
Please wear your black Willow WOW t-shirt on Friday to promote/support our All School Meeting!
Shake it Off Challenge
We're drawing names on the Raider Report tomorrow morning - so last chance to say no!
Teaching channel credits
Let me know if you would like to take this class for 2 graduate credits through teaching channel. I felt like this would be applicable and give me more tools to handle students in crisis. The more teachers that sign up, the better group discount we get. ~ Deanna
Please send Flier your nominations for:
Hallway Behavior
A class that has WOWed you with Responsibility, Reflection, Resilience or Respect!
Post-Secondary Scavenger Hunt
Flier missed the boat last week when Stengl's class did the Staff Post-Secondary Scavenger Hunt! Dig out your alma mater gear, your children's post-secondary garb, your "I'm a proud army mom" tee (Laurel!) or even a Badger/Gopher jersey this weekend to be ready to rock it on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3rd!
Social Media Photos needed
Please share photos and a write up of what is going on in your classrooms with Jess. She can come up to take photos if needed. Our socials have been a little light recently :) Please remember to reference the
"No Photo" permissions list. Sometimes we have great pictures but aren't' able to use them due to permission not being granted for the student. Thanks!
Tuesday, 1-27-26
Practicum Student - Rachel
Rachel will have a practicum student starting with me today. Christine is a 1st year school psych graduate student from UWEC. She will be with me every Tuesday and Thursday (so mainly at Willow) through May. On those days, she’ll be my shadow and join me for all meetings.
Yellowstone Challenge
Support for Families
Many of you have reached out asking how we can support families in our area who are currently facing hardship. It is heartening to see such a strong spirit of generosity within our staff. For those looking for actionable ways to make a difference, we have compiled a list of opportunities ranging from monetary donations to volunteer time. Please contact Sue or Alissa for additional information.
Guest Teacher Access to CKLA!!!
We have great news regarding guest teacher access to CKLA materials! After further exploration, we have discovered a solution to provide substitutes with access to curriculum materials!
The Solution: We now have grade-level usernames and passwords that give guest teachers full access to CKLA materials.
How to Use It: Please view the CKLA Guest Teacher Login Instructions. This document has two tabs:
Important Note: These generic accounts do not access student data. For long-term substitutes who need rostering, please continue to go through IT. Our coaches will be following up in PLCs to answer any questions.
One Book, One School
We are going to be reading Miss Maple's Seeds as a school before our field trip to Camp St. Croix on May 29. Here's the link to the book on Goodreads. Let me know if you find any cool grade level or schoolwide activities - we'd probably read the book mid-May.
Upcoming Dates
- Friday, May 29 - field trip date to Camp St. Croix (still determining if it would be K-5 all day or K-2 & 3-5 half days with a lunch overlap) NOTE: Rain date would be Thur. 5/28
- Sunday, May 31 - Parent Group/Community Farewell "Party" at Willow; time TBD
TAC Meeting
The next Teacher's Advisory Committee meeting will be Wednesday, January 28th. Please share questions/concerns with Alison or Deanna or Julie.
Reader's of the Month
Jess has only received 3. Please email her a photo and give your write up to her by the end of day tomorrow.
Coffee Cups
We need coffee cup donations for the office. Thanks.
Valentine's Bags
Last call to let Vanessa know today if you need a classroom set of white bags to use for Valentine's.
Monday, 1-26-26
Tax Documents
Please check your mail boxes for W2s that were distributed today if you requested to have one printed for you. Ot
Sharing Tree
My name is Cindy Leonard and I’m the director of The Sharing Tree school supply program for Hudson & Somerset school district students and educators in need of school supplies. This is our 8th year offering the Teacher Supply Program, and last year we supported approximately 50 educators. We are happy to help because we certainly don’t want teachers to purchase the supplies out of pocket. Here's a letter that re-introduces our program.
Family Fun Night
We are excited to invite you and your family to our 5th Annual Staff Family Fun Night at the High School on Sunday, February 15th from 4pm-6pm. Please join us for a night of free activities, food and fun! RSVP here or via QR code on the invite: RSVP - Staff Family Fun Night
Walk Yellowstone Challenge
It's not too late to join the Walking Challenge!
Participation is Easy:
Sign up for the challenge on this Google Form.
Track your activity each week. You can count steps, miles, or time spent doing other activities. (2,000 steps = 1 mile).
Don’t have an activity tracker? No problem! Use your smartphone or calculate your activity using a conversion calculator.
There is no minimum number of miles required to be eligible for prize drawings.
Make a digital or physical copy of the Walk Through Yellowstone Mile Tracker Spreadsheet. Record your totals daily or weekly.
Week Two Tracking Form - Due Tuesday, Jan. 27th by 4:00 pm
Summer School
If you have a new summer school class idea, we are leaving it open until Wednesday, January 28th. New class idea...click on the
Google Form to share your ideas with us.
Questions?
Thursday, 1-22-26
Today's Staff Meeting
Inclement Weather Announcements
Just a reminder to staff - please let classroom teachers share information that we get during the school day regarding school closures/releases so their students get it all at once, and it doesn't disrupt their learning. Thank you!
Online Reading Options (for a cold weekend!)
We sent something in today's Family newsletter about families accessing our online reading options. Directions for accessing ClassLink can be found HERE, and click here for information on even more resources - if you want to share with your families.
Congratulations, Des!
We had a great start to our Walk Yellowstone Challenge. 288 of the 376 people who signed up logged and submitted their miles for a total of 8,074.5 miles. Way to go! Congratulations to our Week 1 drawing winners:
Michelle Beer - EP Rock
Sara Clark - High School
Matt Dahl - High School
Sara Enberg - Hudson Prairie
Desare Gonzalez - Willow River
Kjurstin Langer - Middle School
Chris Lila - EP Rock
Madelyn St.Pierre - Middle School
Potluck Monday!
Dig out your pyrex, dust off those baking sheets and get ready to cook outside your comfort zone! We’re hosting a Rookie Recipes Potluck on Monday, January 26th, and everyone’s invited to join the fun. The idea is simple (and delicious): bring a dish you’ve never made before but have always wanted to try. Whether it’s a bold new bake, a mysterious family recipe you’ve admired from afar, or something you’ve been saving on Pinterest “for someday,” this is your moment. Please sign up on the form in the office. As always, if you do not want to participate - that is okay!
Valentine's bags
If you would like white bags for your class to decorate for Valentine's day, please let Vanessa know by the end of day Tuesday, January 27 so she can order a supply for the building.
Valentines for Veterans
A reminder that Valentines will be picked up on Friday, Jan. 30th at the end of the day. We will be doing a Blue Ticket drawing (2 per class) to make some next Monday.
Post it Shake Off Challenge - Minute to Win It (All School Meeting on Jan. 30)
Last chance to let me know if you ARE NOT interested in having your name in the drawing to participate. I will pick 8 names on the Raider Report on Thursday!
Blue Ticket - Hot Chocolate
We will reschedule tomorrow's blue ticket drawing for hot chocolate to another day!
Wednesday, 1-21-26
4K Literacy Night
Due to the cold temps, I am rescheduling the 4K Literacy Night from tomorrow night to next Thursday night (Jan. 29) from 5:30-7:00 here at Willow.
STICKER DONATIONS!
I'm looking for any type of kid-friendly stickers to use for a 4K project (book boxes) at our Literacy Night (next Thur). Please send any donations to the office. Thanks!
Phish Hook
If your Phish Hook isn't working, use this link to re-enable the permissions:
Interested in Tutoring?
Community Education is looking to secure additional tutors. The greatest need is in the area of secondary math.
- Certified-staff/subs are paid $35.00/hr for tutoring.
- Non-Certified staff are paid $25.00/hr for tutoring.
Community Education assists in connecting tutors with students and manages all of the payments from families to tutors. Payment to staff is made through District payroll.
Click here for more information if you are interested in tutoring.
Tutoring is open to all students. Students may make a request for a specific staff member but are not guaranteed the staff member is available.
Per state statute and School District policy, paid tutoring/lessons/training at school sites and/or using school equipment is permitted only through the School District’s tutoring program, coordinated by Hudson Community Education. No paid tutoring/lessons/training on school sites is permitted other than through Community Education.
Tuesday, 1-20-26
Schedule Change - March 2nd
I apologize, in advance, for another special events schedule, but we have been offered a great opportunity from the Carpenter Nature Center for a bird presentation for our school. This has been scheduled for Monday, March 2, from 3:00-3:45.
Change in K/1 Field Trip
The K/1 Field Trip to Carpenter Nature Center is being rescheduled from Friday, Jan. 23 to Friday, Jan. 30 due to the subzero temps forecasted for this Friday.
Professional Learning Feedback
Thank you for a productive Professional Learning Day. Whether you attended the CKLA strengthen training, or attended our in-house sessions, we hope you walked away with practical tools for your students.
To help us plan our next sessions, we need your honest feedback on what worked and what didn't. Please click the link below to share your thoughts: January 19th Professional Learning Feedback
A huge thank you to Jen McConnell, Daisy Stengl, and Adam Wert for preparing and facilitating learning sessions today! We truly appreciate the time you took to share your work with us! Here are the links to the slides from each presentation. If you have questions about the session you did not attend, please reach out to your coach!
Post-Secondary Posters
If you got your info to Flier for your post-secondary experience, you should find a poster in your mailbox at the end of the day. Please post this OUTSIDE of your space so that 5th graders can view your information (Thursday is the first group!) without interrupting your classroom/office!!!
THANK YOU!!!!!!
Junior Achievement Kits
JA kits are in the cupboards in Olivia's office. Please stop by to pick them up.
TAC Meeting
The next Teacher's Advisory Committee meeting will be Wednesday, January 28th. Please share questions/concerns with Alison or Deanna or Julie.
New shredding bin
We have a 95 gallon shredding bin that will be picked up every 8-12 weeks for disposal. It is in the workroom storage room. Only items that contain confidential information should be put in the bin. Please do not put in whole testing booklets, instead tear off pages with identifying information to be shredded and recycle the remaining booklet. It's a great time to start weeding out papers with confidential information you don't need anymore.
Materials that can be put in the bin include:
- copy paper
- cardstock
- file folders
- accordion file folders
- envelopes
- small paper clips
- staples
- two hole hasp fasteners (found at top of file folders)
- spiral notebooks
What cannot be shredded:
- three ring binders (contents only)
- black butterfly /D clips
- hanging file jackets
- any heavy metal objects
Monday, 1-19-26
Trivia at Hudson Tap this Wednesday at 6 p.m. Be there or not!!!
NFL Playoff Bracket Update:
6 points: Christina, Alison, Pat, Sarah B., Vanessa
7 points: Gail, Haley, Erin, Deanna, Olivia
8 points: Daisy, Amy B., Al K. (district delivery guy)
9 points: Lindi, Lyn
If you don't see your name...well, you have been officially eliminated!
Mug Exchange (from Deanna!)
I wanted to make up for my Christmas Party Flop!! Willow will be doing a "White Elephant Mug Exchange" on Monday, January 26 at 4:05pm in the media center. Please wrap your mug and get ready to rid of a mug that you hate, a mug that has been on your shelf for ages, or one that you think would bring somebody joy or laughs. The sign up sheet will be in the work room.
Yellowstone Wellness Challenge
Please submit your miles or steps from Week One on the Google Form linked below by 4:00 Tuesday, January 20th to be entered into this week’s prize drawing.
Thursday, 1-15-26
Upcoming Staff Events!
Staff Party: 24 Bristol Court, Alison's house (THANK YOU, ALISON) starts at 6p.m, EJs pizza at 6:30.
Trivia - January 21st, Hudson Tap 6pm
Potluck is Monday, January 26th (sign up in work room) Happy Hour : Thursday, January 29 at Dick’s Bar & Grill (free popcorn)
Next Will-O-Manias: Friday, January 30th
BUS SURVEY! If you want to ride the party bus this spring, please complete this one-question survey by January 31
February Conferences
Conference times are now available in Skyward for you to review and make any necessary adjustments. If you will need an interpreter for any conferences, please coordinate with the family and secure the interpreter first, then schedule those conferences before time slots are opened to families at the end of the month. This will help ensure availability and avoid scheduling conflicts. As a reminder, we offer one conference per child. Whenever possible, both parents should attend together to ensure a consistent and shared message. If there are circumstances that require a different arrangement, please let Sue know.
Guest Teacher
Emily Breecher, Linda's guest teacher from earlier this school year is now subbing in the district. Feel free to text her if you need a sub! 715-338-8109.
Submit IT Help Desk tickets
Steve Gaffer will be on vacation Jan. 16 - 26. Please submit a helpdesk to get the fastest service. In an emergency you can call Brodie Braaten at x8078 or the IT office at x3709.
Storybook Theater video - Enjoy the SHOW!
Wednesday, 1-14-26
Valentine's For Veterans
My name is Jace Olson and I am a freshman at Carleton College. As most of you know, my family started a project in Hudson about 14 years ago called Valentines for Veterans. We collect valentines from schools, community members and sometimes businesses and send them to veteran homes and hospitals all over the nation. Last year we sent 4,153 valentines and every school in Hudson participated in some way. I am inviting classes to create valentine cards or pictures of any type to be collected and mailed off. Anything goes as long as it would bring joy to a veteran. They would need to be picked up by February 2nd at the latest.
From Sue: please have them to the office by Friday, Jan. 30th for pick up. I will be doing a blue ticket drawing to make some as well. Thanks, in advance, for your support!
Staff Party Update
Our good friend and colleague, Alison Schloesser, will be hosting Friday's staff party. Attendees must agree not to judge "the state of things," at her humble abode.
See you Friday night at 24 Bristol Court - that's her address.
Tuesday, 1-13-26
WANTED: Is someone willing to host the staff party on Friday night? Illness has befallen the Roering household. If you are willing, please contact Chris Reckinger ASAP.
Updated NFL brackets are in your mailbox. Complete your picks for the rest of the playoffs all the way through to picking the Superbowl winner (remember to fill in the Super Bowl total points as well at the bottom), and put the completed bracket in Chris R.'s mailbox by end of day Friday.
Formal Observations
Probationary teachers and Year 3 Non-Probationary teachers: please see Vanessa to schedule a pre-conference, observation, and post conference sometime between Jan. 20 and Feb. 20. Thank you!
Forward Exam Updates
- Forward Proctor Training - Feb. 12 Staff Meeting
- Separate Setting: If you have someone NOT on an IEP or 504 but utilizes a "separate setting" for district and grade level tests, please let Sarah F. or Sue know so we can add that accommodation for the Forward exam. This is only for students who get this regularly - not for someone who "it would be helpful for the Forward". This needs to be added by Jan. 30th.
Starting to Clean Out...
It might be helpful for staff to start cleaning out materials that haven't been used for a long time. This will help keep the dumpster need "steady" - instead of all at the end of the year. Ara has ordered boxes/tape - we'll let you know when those arrive. As soon as I get any information on a timeline or process, I will let staff know.
FastBridge Window Closing
Just a reminder that the Fastbridge window closes this Friday 1/16. Please make sure to check over your class lists to ensure that all of your students have completed their winter screeners. Reach out to coaches, principals, or myself if you need help testing any students.
January 19th PD Day Info (copied from Laura's email)
Here are the finalized logistics for our January 19th Professional Learning.
K-2 Teachers - CKLA Strengthen Session in HP Media Center
- K-1 and Reading Specialists 9-11:30
- (K and Reading Specialists - Heggerty 11:30-12)
- 2, SPED and EL - 12:30-3
Everyone - Please bring your computers and something to write with!
Groups 1 &/or 3 (Grades 3-5 )- Bring the following CKLA Manuals
- 3rd Grade - Native Americans
- 4th Grade - American Revolution
- 5th Grade - Native Americans
Grades 3-5 Groups - Start time 9AM
3-5 teachers who are in Group 2 will also need a CKLA manual. Please bring an upcoming unit to use during work time. We are looking forward to seeing you on Monday.
Specialists - PLC Collaboration Time - Choose time and place
Here’s the potluck sign-up for the January 19 PD day. This is going to be quite the feast! Thank you for the 5-star participation.If you happen to notice we’re extra rich in one category and want to scale back a bit, feel free. Either way, we’re grateful you signed up!
Monday, 1-12-26
Post It Minute to Win It
We will be doing a staff Minute to Win It at the January All School Meeting on Jan. 30th - a
Post It Shake Off. I will be drawing 8 staff names (certified and support) on the Raider Report that morning (please let me know if you are NOT interested) and then those lucky winners will be able to pick someone to help them attach the 1/2 pack of post its to themselves on stage. The 8 participants will be given one minute to shake off as many post its as possible. There will be prizes for the winner(s)! Let me know by Jan. 30 if you ARE NOT interested in being a participant and your name will be removed from the drawing.
Summer School 2026
Please check out the linked slideshow. If you have a new class idea...click on the Google Form to share your ideas with us. Please direct any questions to Amber Dols - dolsamber@hudsonraiders.org.
Writing Support
We talked about this at our leadership meeting this morning, and thought it would be helpful to share: Writing planning and scaffolding - presentation - (Olivia - follow up from district optional google meet)
Message from Chris Mick (classroom teachers)
Hello,
Happy New Year! I wanted to ask if you could forward this to any Willow River teachers that it would pertain to. I know I usually work with all the 3rd grade classrooms on their Planet reports, but over the years I have also had 1st and 5th grade teachers reach out for presentation requests, and this is some big news!
The Artemis II mission is scheduled to roll-out from the Vehicle Assembly Building on Saturday January 17 to make the 4-mile journey to launchpad 39-B. Final testing of the Space Launch System rocket will then begin with a launch attempt perhaps occurring as soon as February 6 (if all testing goes well). I can update teachers when the first launch attempt day/time is confirmed.
Artemis II will launch 4 astronauts on a 10-day mission that will bring them around the Moon before beginning the return journey to Earth. This will be the first time in over 50 years that humans have traveled to the Moon!
I am available to present more details about the crew, the mission and what lies ahead with future Artemis missions, as we return to exploring the Moon for the benefit of all humanity. Classroom presentations show STEM careers in action, some of the science and engineering challenges involved, and ongoing STEM opportunities in Hudson at the Middle and High School level.
Thank you and remember, Space is Awesome!
Sunshine Updates:
Pizza will be delivered to Deanna's (1146 Partridge Lane, North Hudson) at 6:30 on Friday. Bring your own beverages and any fun group games.
Gear up for Trivia next Wednesday, January 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Hudson Tap.
For your Peeks
Teachers, please send this with your weekly peeks! Thank you!
Hi Willow Families,Save the date for:
- Parent Teacher Conferences & Book Fair: Thursday, February 12th & Thursday, February 19th
- BINGO NIGHT Friday, February 13th 6:00-7:30 PM
We hope you have all had a great start to the new year!
~WRPG
Dig out your pyrex, dust off those baking sheets and get ready to cook outside your comfort zone! We’re hosting a Rookie Recipes Potluck on Monday, January 26th, and everyone’s invited to join the fun. The idea is simple (and delicious): bring a dish you’ve never made before but have always wanted to try. Whether it’s a bold new bake, a mysterious family recipe you’ve admired from afar, or something you’ve been saving on Pinterest “for someday,” this is your moment. Please sign up on the form in the office. As always, if you do not want to participate - that is okay!
Friday, 1-9-26
Classroom Snacks
If you need snacks for your classroom please stop in the office. The Backpack Program dropped off a genrous supply of extras. This will help eliminate students coming to the office. Thank you.
All School Meeting - January 30
There will be a special event schedule on Friday, Jan. 30th for the January All School Meeting.
CKLA Boost Support - optional virtual meetings
Thank you for all of the people that were able to attend one of two optional CKLA Friday Virtual PD: Engagement and Boost. Knowing schedules are busy and meetings pop up, we will be doing the same two presentations on the first Friday of February, so if you were not able to attend one, you can do so next month. You could also attend the other meeting if you would find that information useful. If you attended this morning, please fill out the survey here. We would love your feedback to make any adjustments. Here are the presentations for both if you want to look back at them or access links. Reminder Document Services Closed 1/25-2/2
Document Services will not be staffed over the week of January 25th – February 2nd. Please send any requests needed that week on or before January 19th to ensure timely delivery.
As always, if you have any questions, please call or email me Crystal Tape. Phone (715) 377-3700 x8055
Carpenter Nature Center Classroom Visit Opportunity
Any interest?
Friends, I got the following email from Sarah Germscheid at Carpenter Nature Center. K/1 is taking a field trip there this month so it sounds like she thought of us, first! K/1 would like to take advantage of this visit, but it sounds like they can accommodate our whole school if we're interested. We need to let her know by next week! You can fill out this form to say "yes" or "no thank you, not interested". Please do so by Tuesday! --Alison
...At the end of February, educators and birds from World Bird Sanctuary in St. Louis Missori will be visiting Carpenter Nature Center for a weekend of programming. We have a donor that will be covering the cost of the program to visit your school. The program includes interesting live birds of prey like hawks, owls and falcons.
We are hoping to bring World Bird Sanctuary to your school on Monday, March 2nd 2026 for a presentation. Usually, in an auditorium or large cafeteria space. Depending on how many kids, usually K-5th grade, or 300 kids. Willow River students have been visiting Carpenter Nature Center’s WI campus for school year program the last few years. We would like to say thank you by bringing this bird program to your school.
Thanks,
Sarah
Thursday, 1-8-26
Last Day for Alexis LeClaire
Alexis LeClaire in Nutrition Services has taken a new position at the school where her child attends. Her last day at Willow will be Friday, January 16.
Culver's Night
Teachers, there are labels for next Monday’s Culver night in your mailbox. Please save those for Monday and hand them out at the end of the day. Thank you so much! Don't forget to remind students (and staff!) to wear our new light blue Boosterthon t-shirts on Monday - to school, and to Culvers.
Revised Dates
Due to calendar conflicts, the following events have been changed:
- Fine Arts Night - switched from April 3 to April 10 (due to Good Friday)
- K/1 Music Program - switched from April 23 to April 30 (due to Celebration of Nations).
Please communicate these changes with your families. Thanks!
Walk Through Yellowstone Wellness Activity
There's still time to sign up for our first Wellbeing Challenge! Sign up for the challenge on this Google Form
So far, we have 230 participants signed up. That's amazing! Take a look below to see how your building participation compares, and see if you can convince a few of your coworkers to sign up with you.
Remember, you can count any movement or exercise for this challenge. And if the thought of prizes isn't enough to motivate you, maybe Coach Joe will do the trick!
Wednesday, 1-7-26
Post Secondary Training Posters
We need your FIRST JOB and what your DREAM JOB was when you were in 5th grade!! If you have not already completed this form, please do so now! Mrs. Flier wants to add a few more details to your Post Secondary Training Posters for the kids (and us!) to all read.
Sarah Flier
STEM Education and Outreach - reminder
If you are interested, we have a great opportunity for MnDOT to bring in some hands on learning! MnDOT has a couple different classroom visit activities that they do. One is the MnDOT Bridge-in-a-Bag, recommended for grades 3-10. The other one is the Toothpick and Marshmallow Bridge activity which is recommended for grades K-4. Both can have MnDOT employees come and talk about what they do at MnDOT and how they help the overall MnDOT function. Also the employees help with the activities and leading them. Here is a link to the website: https://www.dot.state.mn.us/stem/resources.html and Here's a link to more information. There is also someone who can provide great aviation education information for classroom use - Darlene Dahlseide at darlene.dahlseide@state.mn.us.
- All Staff Morning Potluck - We’re excited to kick off our professional learning by coming together as an elementary team! During the first hour, we’ll enjoy some food, conversation, and connection. Please use the sign-up link to bring something to share. No need to bring enough for everyone. A little from many will be more than enough!
- K–2 CKLA Strengthen Training: Led by Amplify trainer Suzanne (who joined us for our initial training). Please double-check your grade-level meeting time.
- Grades 3–5: You’ll have choice this morning! Review the options on the schedule and complete this Google Form by January 13 with your first and second choices. We're excited to share that teachers are leading these sessions based on the amazing things that are happening in classrooms, and there is time built in to plan and implement!
- SPED, and EL: Choose the learning pathway that best supports the students you serve. If selecting a 3–5 session, please complete the Google Form.
- GT: Semiquincentennial Choice Menu Collaboration
- Kindergarten & Reading Teachers: A 30-minute Heggerty training focused on practical ways to use it with students (small groups, routines, and more). This is another high quality tool for your toolbox!
Senior Letters
My name is Megan Dougherty and I am a teacher at the high school. This year, I am hoping that as a collective group, we can put a note/letter in the hands of every senior as they graduate again. My goal is for each student to receive a letter of support and encouragement from a teacher or staff member they have encountered in their educational journey here at Hudson. After seeing the joy and surprise these last four years (to over 1600 students!) as the seniors were handed their letters from you all, I would like to continue this tradition. As the year progresses, and if you would like to take part in this, please think of a student or two (or as many as you would like) that you would like to write a letter to and they will receive it during graduation. Please keep this a secret so it can be a surprise! Once again, this is completely voluntary.
- Instructions
- List of current seniors - let me know which student you are choosing and I will put your name in. I am not giving editing rights to anyone in order to prevent errors.
Please let me know if you have any questions - thanks! Megan Dougherty
Tuesday, 1-6-26
Professional Learning for Jan. 19
- All Staff Morning Potluck - We’re excited to kick off our professional learning by coming together as an elementary team! During the first hour, we’ll enjoy some food, conversation, and connection. Please use the sign-up link to bring something to share. No need to bring enough for everyone. A little from many will be more than enough!
- K–2 CKLA Strengthen Training: Led by Amplify trainer Suzanne (who joined us for our initial training). Please double-check your grade-level meeting time.
- Grades 3–5: You’ll have choice this morning! Review the options on the schedule and complete this Google Form by January 13 with your first and second choices. We're excited to share that teachers are leading these sessions based on the amazing things that are happening in classrooms, and there is time built in to plan and implement!
- SPED, and EL: Choose the learning pathway that best supports the students you serve. If selecting a 3–5 session, please complete the Google Form.
- GT: Semiquincentennial Choice Menu Collaboration
- Kindergarten & Reading Teachers: A 30-minute Heggerty training focused on practical ways to use it with students (small groups, routines, and more). This is another high quality tool for your toolbox!
Wellness Walk - 8-week Adventure
Are you ready to step outside your comfort zone, get active, and explore one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth? Welcome to the Walk Through Yellowstone Challenge! Over eight weeks (January 12th through March 8th), you’ll journey through Yellowstone’s incredible landscapes, from the wide-open Lamar Valley to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the brilliant colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, and the iconic eruptions of Old Faithful.
Each week brings a new destination and a new opportunity to move. Whether you walk, run, or exercise in your own way, imagine the sights, sounds, and energy of this extraordinary park as you make progress toward your goal.
All participants will be eligible for prizes, and those who complete the full 130-mile journey will be eligible to earn an additional reward for their accomplishment. And, although this is an individual challenge, there will also be prizes for the buildings with highest percentage of participants.
Participation is Easy:
Sign up for the challenge on this Google Form.
Track your activity each week. You can count steps, miles, or time spent doing other activities. (2,000 steps = 1 mile).
Make a digital or physical copy of the Walk Through Yellowstone Mile Tracker Spreadsheet. Record your totals daily or weekly. Share your spreadsheet with your final results with Sarah Jamieson.
This challenge is all about having fun, staying active, and supporting one another. Encourage your colleagues to join you as we “walk” our way through Yellowstone’s most famous sights, one step at a time. Your adventure begins Monday, January 12th!
Monday, 1-5-26
CPR Training
There is a possibility of a CPR/First Aid Training available on Monday, Jan. 19th (w/Sara Felland). Let me know if you are interested!
January 19th - Professional Development Day
Jan. 2 Documentation
Certified staff have until Jan. 16 to complete their 7.5 hours - please add to the spreadsheet:
Jan. 2 floating hours
Grant Opportunities
1. AnnMarie Foundation
Please check with your building administration before you begin work on your grant, this will help you align your application with building and district goals. If your grant involves any technology, please confer with Amanda McCarthy. All grants will be reviewed by the IT Department to ensure compatibility with our network. All grants should be submitted by the end of the day Tuesday, January 27th. Here is the link to the AnnMarie Foundation website.
2. The Hudson Home and Garden Club
This club is offering a spring grant for $500 to interested persons or groups. The grant supports projects that would strengthen the Garden Club goals in the community. These projects could focus on gardening and anything related, home and community beautification, conservation of natural resources and environmental friendly projects. The grant application is attached l and is due February 15, 2026. Return to: Deanne DeGraff
713 Glenna Dr, Hudson, WI 54016
Certified Staff: Educator Effectiveness Reminders
Upcoming Educator Effectiveness reminders: the mid-year SLO reviews are due February 6, 2026. Year 2 (probationary and non-probationary) survey analysis reports are due February 27, 2026. Here's a link to an overview of the mid-cycle goal review (tutorial). This information can also be found on the blog.
Instructional Coaching Support for CKLA
As a required part of the implementation process for K-2, and to provide optional support for 3-5 teachers, please indicate your needs in this coaching survey (by Jan. 12): CKLA Coaching Survey Our goal is to complete this learning by the end of Tri 2 (early March).
Remember this is only required for K-2 this year. 3-5, you are welcome to participate if you'd like, but you do not have to. 1st Staff Wellbeing Challenge: Trek Through Yellowstone
We're kicking off 2026 with a movement challenge! over 8 weeks, you'll journey through Yellowstone's incredible landscapes. each week brings a new destination and a new opportunity to move.
- The Goal: walk, run, or exercise your way through the sights of the park.
- The Spirit: have fun, stay active and support your colleagues
- Start Date: Monday, Jan. 12th
Click Here to Sign Up and Start Your Adventure!
Sunshine Updates:
- Continue to sign up for the staff holiday party in the work room. The party will be at Deanna's house, not the work room. Sign up there. Only $5!
- NFL Playoff Contest: Participate by getting a playoff bracket from the work room and picking the winners of the six games this weekend. You will get an updated bracket next week. Entries go in Chris Reckinger's mailbox by Friday at 4:00 p.m. or via electronic methods before the first game on Saturday.
Hi Teachers,
If you are looking for a Junior Achievement Volunteer Jackie is a kinder mom in Lisa's class and is interested in helping out! If you are looking for a volunteer, feel free to contact her directly!
If you're wondering if you have a volunteer....here are the teachers on the list not yet set up with someone for JA:
Leah Wahlberg, Courtney Jacobson, Kiki Buege, Tricia Griffith, Linda Wagner & Ellie Kreibich
I'm a financial advisor and happy to help with the Junior Achievement curriculum. My son is in Kindergarten with Mrs. Plackner.
Thanks,
jackie
With Sympathy
Visitation to be held at Augustana Lutheran Church, 1400 South Robert Street, West Saint Paul, MN 55118 on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 11:00 am and memorial service to follow at 12:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society are preferred.
Friday, 12-19-25
Winter Break Birthdays!
December 20 - Happy Birthday, Mackenzie Gryga!
December 21 - Happy Birthday, Vanessa LaFleur!
December 23 - Happy Birthday, Shelly Mohrland!
January 4 - Happy Birthday, Laurie Palm!
I Love Games!
Here are the links to today's games if you need something to do over break!
Hot Air Affair Pilot Visit?
Last chance to cast your vote - yes or no to Feb. 6th pilot visit. So far I have more yes than no, so if you feel strongly either way, let me know by the end of the day. Thank you!
Staff Wellbeing Challenge
Before you officially switch to break mode, we wanted to share a little teaser of our first Staff Wellbeing Challenge, kicking off in January. Please enjoy this quick video, and keep an eye out for more details when you return. Wellbeing Challenge #1 ~ Promo Video
Interschool Mail over break
The last day of Interschool mail for the year will be Monday, December 22nd. It will start back up on January 5th.
Quadrant Reports
I wanted to let you know that I did update the midyear quadrant report protocols that are on the district PLC protocols document.
Below I have attached the protocol- note the 2 quadrant documents linked at the top
I created a video explaining some of the changes and what it would look like:
- two quadrants have flipped
- Risk levels= achievement (FB has one less band than Aims)
- I included interpretation keys to help everyone through this process for their first time
Let me know if you have any questions or need any assistance! I am planning on being here over break for all of our working days!
Tuesday, 12-16-25
Auditorium Coverage
Thank you for those that have volunteered to be in the auditorium on Friday during the Sing Along - I think we have it covered. Can't wait to see the Glow Dance!
Playground Equipment
Please remind students that playground equipment SHOULD NOT be on the woodchip area. This includes balls, hula hoops, and especially wagons on the slides. Wagons can be used in the snow by the basketball hoops. We'll talk about it on the Raider Report on Wednesday, too.
Student - Dress Up on Friday
Teachers - you can guide your students in what to wear on Friday, i.e. holiday or winter themed clothing. This way, you can accommodate your individual class needs.
TOMORROW NIGHT!
I'm hoping you all can make it tomorrow night! My address is 1301 89th St. New Richmond, WI (about an 11 minute drive from Willow). Please let me know if you're planning to bring kids so I can have activities ready =)
No Winter Reading Challenge
Just a heads up, there will not be a Winter Reading Challenge this year. There is a lot happening behind the scenes in the library right now. We will put our energies into a special reading challenge in February or March for I Love to Read Month/Read Across America.
Updating Chromebooks
Teachers in 3rd-5th grade, please encourage your students to SIGN OUT of their Chromebooks at least once a week. Simply closing the cover does not allow for their Chromebooks to receive the updates pushed out.
TRU TIME USERS: Submitting timesheets over break (on your last day here this week)
Before you leave for break, whether Friday, Tuesday or Wednesday is your last day to work.....please make sure to submit the next 2 WEEKS of time sheets! Go into Tru Time and adjust your filter for showing time sheets.
Click on Filter Options.
Click on the calendar to change the date to 1/02/2026.
Click apply filter AFTER you have changed the date to save it.
Now you can submit EACH time sheet. Do ALL of your future timesheets up to 1/02/2026.
Let Vanessa know if you have questions.
Monday, 12-15-25
Readers of the Month - Due by end of day tomorrow!! So far only 4 have been turned in to Jess. Please get these to her ASAP!
Sunshine Updates:
Happy Hour on Thursday (yes, this Thursday) afternoon, Hudson Tap, 4p.m.
Get your $5 in to Vanessa if you are doing the gift exchange. Gift exchange will be during the holiday breakfast on Friday; $15 suggested price, gender neutral.
Staff Holiday Party - @ Deanna's house on January 16 ; sign up in the staff workroom.
Will-O-Mania Points Updated:
Team 1 "Questionable Decisions" - 72.5
Team 2 "Two Cool for School" - 73.5
Team 3 "How You Doin'?" - 90.5
Team 4 "Wicked Willows" - 77.5
Teachers, please send this in your Peeks of the Week:
Willow River Families,
You can find the link to our December Newsletter
here! - We hope to see you at Culver's Night on Monday, January 12th from 5-8.. If your child is interested in a serving shift, you can sign up here.
- Family Bingo Night is planned for Friday, February 13th from 6:00-7:30. Save the date, more details will be in the school newsletter in early January!
Happy holidays from all of us,
~WRPG
Staff Dress Up Days - Friday for Students
This week's "dress up" days are for staff, but teachers - feel free to invite your class to wear their favorite holiday gear or green/red (depending on the make up of your class) on Friday!
Friday Morning's Breakfast/Party
Please bring a white board and marker (or find some to bring) to the holiday party on Friday morning!
Anyone NOT in the Holiday Dance - Help With Sing Along Supervision
If you ARE NOT in the glow dance, please let Sue or Vanessa know by Tuesday - we're trying to figure out if we have enough coverage in the auditorium while staff in the dance get ready/are on stage. Thank you!
Studio clean up - If anyone is looking for last minute Christmas gifts and wants to help Flier clean out her garage studio, there is a variety of pottery (mugs, plates, holiday trinkets, vases, plates etc.) in her office for you to check out :)
Friday, 12-12-25
Support Staff Timesheet Reminder
If you were released early on Tuesday, December 9 due to the inclement weather dismissal, please remember to update your timesheet before submitting it for the week. Be sure to adjust your end time that day to reflect your normal scheduled end of day.
Sad News - We are saddened by the news of the passing of long time volunteer Renee Snow. Here is the link to her
obituary.
Snowman on the Loose - starts Monday!
Joe to Go!
Teachers! SURPRISE! Joe to Go will be on our playground to kick off the countdown to Christmas Break on Monday, December 15th! To keep things moving smoothly, please fill in your order on this doc if you'd like an order delivered to you (their drink menu is linked). The Parent group and some student helpers will deliver your drink to you! Joe to Go is also serving Hot Chocolate to our K-5 students on Monday as a holiday treat from the Parent Group! They will be back at 12:30-3:00 to serve hot chocolate to the students!
K-2 will drink theirs on the playground (weather permitting) and 3-5 will bring theirs inside to drink.
Student Schedule:
- 3rd grade—12:50-12:55 (lunch recess 12:30-12:55)sull
- 4th grade—1:10 (lunch recess 12:50-1:15)
- 5th grade—1:30 (lunch recess 1:10-1:35)
- 1st grade—1:45 (change: extra recess from 2:15-2:30 to 1:45-2:00)
- 2nd grade—2:20 (extra recess 2:20-2:35)
- Kinder—2:40 (change: add a recess right after specials, 2:40-2:55) - note: 4th grade second recess is 2:45-3:00
- 4K - 9:15 and 2:00 in the cafeteria
Furniture Inventory
As it often happens, I got some questions from staff, and have
updated the doc! Please double-check your info if you've already completed it. Sorry for the revision!
Culver's Night - please send home
PLEASE PUT THIS IN YOUR PEEKS/SEND TO FAMILIES!
Save the Date - Monday, January 12th 5pm - 8pm - Culver's Night in honor of Ben Prince, please plan to attend and if you want to volunteer sign up
here!
Thursday, 12-11-25
Laminating
There are several completed laminating projects in the workroom. They did not have names on them.
Gift Exchange
Please remember to drop off $5 in the office if you are participating in the gift exchange next week Friday during the staff holiday breakfast.
Wednesday, 12-10-25
Holiday Happy Hour
Please celebrate the holidays at Sue's house on Dec. 17th - your family is invited! The basement is unfinished, so kids can hang out down there. Hope to see you there!
December Readers of the Month
Please have your information to Jess by Tuesday, Dec. 16 (or before) as we will be announcing them on Thursday's Raider Report.
Flannel Board
Melissa Briese - 4K . Is in need of a flannel board, if anyone has an extra or willing to let her borrow it for the rest of December.
Staff Holiday Glow Dance Practice Videos
Here are videos to watch so you can practice the dance at home:
Tuesday 12-9-25
Sunshine Updates
Please hang a family photo in the entryway (next to the staff photo wall) as soon as you can! It does not have to be a Christmas card
- Cookie Contest - Monday, December 15 (sign up in workroom)
- Sue's Home Holiday Party - Wednesday, December 17
- Sue's Breakfast and Will-O-Mania - Friday, December 19
Staff Gift Exchange -
It's time to start thinking about the gift giving season. Optional as always, our staff gift exchange is always a big hit! This year's theme is "Something to do over Winter Break" since we will be off for 2 weeks.
Who: All Willow River Elementary Staff (that are interested in participating)
What: Holiday Gift Exchange- Purchase a $15 “gender neutral” gift to be exchanged. In addition, give $5 to the office to be put in for the large pot drawing.
Where: We will exchange and open at our staff breakfast in the media center. Please wrap your gift.
Why: To build community in our building and bring joy to others.
Bridging Brighter Smiles - Rescheduled for Friday, December 12 in the morning.
Staff Holiday Glow Dance Practice Videos
Here are videos to watch so you can practice the dance at home:
Monday, 12-8-25
Payroll processing
In order for the 12/31 payroll to be processed all True Time timesheets for the weeks of December 1 & December 8 must be submitted so your supervisor can approve it no later than the end of the day on Tuesday, December 16th. It is your responsibility to make sure to submit your timesheet when you punch out for your last shift each week before going home. If you are having trouble with your timesheet, please see Vanessa in the office as soon as possible.
Raider Report - anchor positions filled!
Thank you!
- Tuesday - Olivia
- Wednesday - Sarah
- Thursday - Leah
Holiday Wardrobe Week
- Monday - holiday socks
- Tuesday - holiday t-shirt (i.e. Santa's favorite t-shirts)
- Wednesday - Ugly Sweater
- Thursday - Red and Green
- Friday - Free Choice/Team Choice (or black if you are in the Glow Dance)
Tomorrow's PLCPlease bring a writing sample - Jenna will work with you on planning for writing using backwards planning.
Elf on a Shelf
The parent group has purchased an Elf on the Shelf costume for us to use next week. I am happy to find a spot to "hang out" each morning - but let me know if you're interested (and have coverage). Also - 1st and 4th will be coming in the front door next week, so they can find the secret Elf!!
District Openings
The district is still trying to fill several support staff positions. The following positions are currently open and posted on WECAN. Please help us spread the word with family and friends!
SUPPORT STAFF *Apply on WECAN or Google Application*
High School:
Middle School:
EP Rock Elementary
North Hudson Elementary
Houlton Elementary
Athletic/Activities Positions: *Apply on WECAN or Google Application*
Coach: Golf - Boys JV (Spring)
Coach: Gymnastics - JV (Winter)
Coach: Lacrosse - Girls JV (Spring)
Coach: Lacrosse - Girls Varsity Assistant (Spring)
Coach: Track - Assistant (Spring)
Coach: Track - Girls Head (Spring)
Activity Advisor: Student to Student (High School)
Activity Advisor:
Friday, 12-5-25
We Have a Star Amongst Us!
Zoe Lewis, our student teacher, has a really nice article published about her today on UW-Eau Claire's web site:
Holiday Staff Dance - Sign up
Wonderful Willow Staff, please use this link to add your name to the spreadsheet so we know how many people plan to participate in our Glow Dance. We need you to sign up TODAY so we can order enough glow sticks for everyone. Thanks!
Dust off your dancing shoes! It's time for the annual Willow Staff Dance. This year, we are bringing back the glow dance done to Mariah Carey's signature song "All I Want for Christmas is You." We will perform the dance at the Winter Sing-Along at the end of the day on Friday, December 19. We encourage all to participate in this fun Willow tradition! In addition to the full glow dance, there will also be a shorter, simplified part for people who might not feel as comfortable dancing or won't be able to attend many rehearsals. Practice videos for both parts will be sent out next week, so you can also practice on your own.
Below you will find the practice schedule for the auditorium.
- Tuesday, 12/9: 4:15 PM
- Wednesday, 12/10: 8:05 AM
- Thursday, 12/11: 8:05 AM
- Tuesday, 12/16: 4:15 PM
- Wednesday, 12/17: 8:05 AM
- Thursday, 12/18: 8:05 AM (Dress Rehearsal - Please try to attend!)
Lunch Counts
Please verify that your lunch count saves before closing out of your spreadsheet. We are still seeing some errors with numbers being submitted. If you type in a cell, please click out of it into another cell with no number so it saves before you close your sheet. Sometimes if the cursor is still in the cell it doesn't fill in or save when you close it. Thanks!
ALL STAFF!
Please complete this survey to enhance our "Post-Secondary Scavenger Hunt" that we do each year with 5th graders for Life Skills! Flier is adding two other "facts" about you to your posters - if you are NEW, you'll be asked to provide your degree/training and alma mater too!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ara - You were right, again, like always.
Wednesday, 12-3-25
Staff Holiday Dance Skit Practice
Our annual staff holiday performance at the All School Sing-Along is back—and this year, we’re turning up the fun and bringing back the crowd-favorite… THE GLOW DANCE! If you’ve ever thought, “That looks fun… maybe next year,” THIS is your moment! No dance skills required—just enthusiasm, a sense of humor, and a willingness to light up the auditorium (literally 
). Come join us for a quick preview and kickoff this Friday at 8:00 AM in the gym. We’ll show you what the glow dance is all about and how easy and fun it is to be part of the magic. More practice dates will be shared soon.
Let’s make this year’s performance unforgettable!
Staff Gift Exchange -
It's time to start thinking about the gift giving season. Optional as always, our staff gift exchange is always a big hit! This year's theme is "Something to do over Winter Break" since we will be off for 2 weeks.
Who: All Willow River Elementary Staff (that are interested in participating)
What: Holiday Gift Exchange- Purchase a $15 “gender neutral” gift to be exchanged. In addition, give $5 to the office to be put in for the large pot drawing.
Where: We will exchange and open at our staff breakfast in the media center. Please wrap your gift.
Why: To build community in our building and bring joy to others.
When: Friday, December 19th, 2025
Sunshine Updates:
- Please hang a family photo in the entryway (next to the staff photo wall) as soon as you can! It does not have to be a Christmas card
- It's time to enter the 38th annual Willow River Baking Contest! Sign up in the work room and bring your treats on Monday, December 15.
Thanks for the treats
Thank you to Sarah Flier for the Bear Bait coffee cake and to Sara Felland for the Pina Coloda bread this morning!
Classroom Teachers: Please include this (or something like it) in an upcoming Peek of the Week
Morning Drop Off Reminder
In order to keep students safe, and cars moving through the drop off line, please do not park/get out of your vehicle when dropping off your child/ren. They should be ready to get out as soon as you stop, so that other vehicles can move in when your child/ren get out. This prevents double parking and children getting out of their vehicles on the street. Thank you for your help with this.
Gratitude Journal - December
December's focus is Keeping Centered. Amidst all the craziness of this month, reminding yourself what your priorities are, and keeping the important stuff front and center.
From Lisa:
- Take a look at the December Sharing Gratitude in the Classroom newsletter, linked below. This month’s theme, Keeping Centered, offers a few gentle reminders to slow down, notice what matters, and find moments of quiet within the busyness of life. I hope it brings a sense of calm and encouragement to your month.
- Since this is the first time I’m gathering feedback this academic year, I would be truly grateful if you could complete THIS quick survey.
- See the newsletter for ideas for you, and your classroom: Link to December's Letter from Lisa This can also be found on the Blog on the Gratitude Journal page.
Tuesday, 12-2-25
CPI-Lite - De-escalation Strategy Training
- The district is limiting the full CPI Certification training to 4-5 staff members per building. For those of you familiar with CPI training, you know that a big part of the training is the part about de-escalation strategies, and we now have a way to provide that training to any of our staff members called CPI-Lite.
- Special education teachers and sped paras: you have been registered. The organization code for Willow is 5001403, if needed for setting up your account.
- The training module is approximately one hour in length and can be completed across multiple sessions. This can be paid if done during work hours, or on your own after hours.
- If other staff are interested in this CPI-Lite training, please let Sue know.
Parent Communication
- A reminder to continue ongoing communication with your families - this is the one thing that I hear parents comment on, and how grateful they are to be in close contact with the school.
- Also - in order to protect you, please use ParentSquare or school email for ALL family communication. While personal cell phones/texts might be easier, please follow the district guidelines for utilizing district email or ParentSquare.
Thank you!
Shepherd of the Valley Church in Afton donated the bagels today for staff as a "thank you" for all we do as educators. We sincerely appreciate their thoughtfulness with the yummy treats.
Grading - Please double check all grades are filled in by 11:59pm tonight. Nothing should be blank. The office will print reports in the morning.
Coffee emergency - We could use some additional donations of disposable coffee cups and ground coffee for the office workroom.
Staffing Survey - Due December 8 by 4pm.
Monday, 12-1-25
Sunshine Updates
- Congratulations to Benjamin Nadeau, this year's NFL Survivor Champion!!!! If anyone has the trophy, please get it to Chris Reckinger.
- Spread holiday cheer and earn a point for your Will-O-Mania team by hanging a family photo in the entryway as soon as you can!
- Spread holiday cheer and earn points for your Will-O-Mania team by entering the 38th annual Willow River Baking Contest! Sign up in the work room and bring your treats on Monday, December 15.
Fire Inspection - from Buildings and Grounds
Today is the first day of annual Fire Department Inspections. The fire department will be onsite through the course of the week inspecting each building for possible corrections. If there is anything required in your building I will copy you on the report being sent to the head custodian. If the corrections require assistance with teachers/staff removing items from their room I’ll note them and ask for your assistance. We’ve done a pretty good job the previous two years, so I don’t anticipate a large list this year.
Storybook Theater - Save the Date
I know it's not until January - but it is December! Mark your calendars for a 2:15ish performance on Friday, January 9th (Early Release Schedule). Try to encourage our 4th and 5th graders to participate!!! More information to come as we get closer.
Anybody want to go May 1st in Eau Claire?? Talk to Deanna :)
Front Office Coverage - Looking for someone to cover the front office 7:50am-8:50am on Wednesday, December 17 to help check in subs. Let Vanessa know.
Tuesday, 11-25-25
Thank you to Specialists for running Turkey Bingo today!
Sunshine Updates:
- Mark your calendars for the Annual Willow River Staff Party on Friday, January 16th. More information to come.
- Today, Tuesday, November 25, is the last day to sign up for a Willow River Athletic Department t-shirt in the work room. You do not need to pay by today, we just need to know our final number of t-shirts! Thank you.
- Happy Hour tonight at Willow River Saloon at 4:05pm.
Monday, 11-24-25
Xcel Energy Student Booklets
There's a box of student booklets in the workroom for teachers to take, to help explain the many uses of electricity and natural gas. It includes six key electrical safety behaviors and four natural gas safety behaviors. I would say 1st-2nd grade, but take a look and see if it's something that fits into what you're teaching!
Movie Coverage
Please let Olivia know if you'd like help covering your class during the movie on Tuesday.
Thank you for helping - please check as I've made a couple of switches! Prize Bowls can be picked up in the office.
CPR/First Aid Refresher
Sara Felland is going to do a First Aid/CPR refresher class with staff who are certified. It will be on the Jan. 19th (PD Day) at River Crest from 8:00-10:00. Let me know if you're interested in joining the class - there is limited space, so let me know as soon as possible.
Food Costume Needed
Do you have an adult costume that is food themed? Please reach out to Julie Warren if you do. It is needed tomorrow.
Dental Health presentation
Orchin + Orchin Orthodontics in Stillwater is offering to come and talk to a classroom about dental health in February for Children Dental Health Month. If you are interested you can call their office at 651-333-6162
Friday, 11-21-25
All School Movie Info
- Please put your class vote on the purple ballot and put it in Sue's mailbox by the end of the day! And adjust your plans for MOVIE DAY on Tuesday morning, 9:45 (after Turkey BINGO) until 11:10ish. Yahoo!!!
- Due to the movie, there will not be specials that day. You can arrange with your grade level partner to split the time, as long as you have someone in there supervising.
- Let me know if you have questions!
Thanksgiving Trivia
Make sure your trivia is in the can by the end of the day on Monday!
Best Wishes, Emily Breecher!
Today is Emily's last day. Please wish Emily well as she moves to her next endeavor! It was great having her in our building!
Boosterthon Pictures
Please send Boosterthon pictures to Jess - thank you!
Epson projectors - please make sure you are turning off your Epson projectors each night so the lamps don't burn out. Thank you!
Readers of the Month - Please get your Reader of the Month to Jess.
Cookies & a Gift Card - The Willow River Parent Group has left a small token of appreciation in the staff workroom. Please stop in and pick up your cookie and gift card. 1 per staff.
Department Head Notes - 5th Grade
I hope you’re all having a wonderful end to the week. I wanted to pass along the notes from Tuesday's meeting to help all of us stay informed and connected.
I also wanted to share my thoughts about how this information can be relevant to our grade level. As we continue strengthening student learning with CKLA, it’s important to be mindful of the difference between entertainment and engagement. Sustained cognitive engagement is what drives growth. This is especially meaningful as our 5th grade students tackle complex texts and tasks that require sustained attention, perseverance, and independence.
My takeaway from Tuesday's meeting was intentional and balanced scaffolding. While strong supports are essential for some students, over-scaffolding can unintentionally limit growth in students who are already proficient. We discussed how important it is to reflect on the evidence you are using to determine who needs additional scaffolded support and who may benefit from more productive struggle, independence, or a challenge.
In terms of Forward preparation, please continue using CKLA as it remains closely aligned to the standards assessed. We will also continue using DPI’s practice modules to ensure students are comfortable with the Forward testing platform and question types. Students can strengthen their typing stamina and skills by completing some CKLA activities in a Google Doc when appropriate.
Thank you so much for reading! See the Department Head Notes for more detail and please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Wishing you a peaceful and relaxing fall break!
Daisy Stengl
Thursday, 11-20-25
GLOW RUN reminders:
- The labels in your mailbox are to put on your students sleeves during the glow run to "track" their laps.
- Please remember, in your weekly communication, to share the sign up for volunteers to join us at the GLOW RUN and help track laps:
SIGN UP TO HELP WITH THE FUN RUN!!!! Boosterthon Fun Run Sign Up -- sign up to help track laps for child's grade level! We hope to see you there to cheer on our runners!
Summer Planning - Save the Date
PBIS (morning) and Leadership (afternoon) Team Summer Planning Meeting - August 11th. More info to come from individual buildings this spring.
Adult Help for Turkey BINGO
Please sign up if you are able to help with the prize basket or in K-1 classrooms. Thank you! Turkey Bingo Sign Up
Wednesday, 11-19-25
School Photo - 9:05 on Friday!
Please make sure you are trying out your spot on the WR! A note from Sarah, after practicing with 4th and 5th:
I think a suggestion for staff may be that if you are not needed directly with a class to filter in with fifth grade since it took most of the fifth graders in a single file line to make the curve and the downward slant of the R. Also maybe staff that have a student who would do better not in the middle, and/or students that need to be directly next to a staff member could also fill in to make that part of the R thicker.
GLOW RUN reminders:
- In your mailbox this week you will find a sheet of labels, these are to put on your students sleeves during the glow run to "track" their laps.
- Please remember, in your weekly communication, to share the sign up for volunteers to join us at the GLOW RUN and help track laps:
SIGN UP TO HELP WITH THE FUN RUN!!!! Boosterthon Fun Run Sign Up -- sign up to help track laps for child's grade level! We hope to see you there to cheer on our runners!
Boosterthon Updates:
CONGRATULATIONS to last night's challenge winners... 2nd Grade!! Big shoutout to Murray's class who brought in a landslide of donations!- Tonight's challenge: Every student that gets a new donation of ANY amount tonight gets to have wacky outfit day at school tomorrow!
Monday, Dec. 1st - CKLA Vertical PLC
We will be discussing the following questions, in the same manner as the math vertical PLC.
- What skills are going well?
- What skills are still a challenge?
- What skills would be most helpful for incoming students to have for the next grade level?
- What specific Academic Vocabulary do you use often (i.e. common noun, proper noun, adverb)?
And here are the times:
- 8:00-8:20 - K-1, 2-3, 4-5
- 8:20-8:40 - 1-2, 3-4
Tuesday, 11-18-25
PICK UP BY WEDNESDAY END OF DAY -Staff Boosterthon Shirts-If you signed up for a Boosterthon Shirt they are in my classroom. I have the shirts labeled by size, and a sheet for you to find your name and cross it off once you have picked up your shirt. Please be sure to cross off your name once you've picked up your shirt---please take the size that is next to your name. Thank you! Alison
Paper towel tubes- Please save your paper towel tubes for a 1st grade CKLA project! Thanks-Deanna
Sunshine Updates:
Karen Frye and Ben Nadeau are the last two standing in the NFL Survivor Challenge.
Trivia, tomorrow night, 6-8 p.m. at Hudson Tap
Secret Sunshine Spreader Reveal this Friday morning
Will-O-Mania next Tuesday morning
Happy Hour at Willow River Saloon next Tuesday afternoon.
Coke and mountain dew have been refilled
Send Reader's of the Month to Jess.
Staffing Surveys
Staffing Surveys for Certified and Support Staff will be sent out Dec. 1 and will be due Dec. 8 (end of day). If you choose not to participate, we will assume you are comfortable being placed in any building and/or grade level for which you are licensed. This is a great opportunity for you to share your preferences, as well as any other information that you think would be helpful for the staffing process.
Report Card Timeline
Please review the information (things to remember) on the
Report Card Timeline, as it has been updated recently.
Welcome, Bridget!
A warm Willow welcome to Bridget O'Meara who is officially joining the Willow staff as a para in Stacy's classroom. You have seen Bridget in the building as a sub - but she will officially become a full time staff member this week. Please welcome Bridget!
Boosterthon Nightly Challenge
Tonight's challenge: The grade with the most NEW donations tonight will get to have music and bubbles out at recess tomorrow! 
Morning Line Up Staff
Thank you to everyone for the spreading of cheer in the morning when you are on the playground! An extra favor - please keep an eye on the Kindergarten line, as we want to make sure our youngest students are off to a great start and are clear on our line up expectations, and the 2nd grade line as we've had some issues during their line up.
Inflatable Race
Still looking for some eager volunteers...
Here's who I have:
Laurie P.
Deanna
Lindi
Ellie
Leah
Sarah P.
Courtney
anyone else???!!!!!
Monday, 11-17-25
A little Celebration of Nations plug: We invite you to consider doing an art project with your class to celebrate the rich cultural diversity within our community! Please feel free to reach out to me, Olivia Condon, or Samantha Thrane with any questions or for ideas. Thank you in advance for supporting this engaging learning opportunity for our students!
-Laurie Palm
This Week's PLC:
Warm Up Discussion (from Gratitude Journal, p. 36) - please take a moment to think and/or write before your PLC on Tuesday
Is there someone in your classroom or school community who could use a lift and might appreciate being seen by you? What is one small act of kindness that could make a difference?
GLOW RUN reminders:
- In your mailbox this week you will find a sheet of labels, these are to put on your students sleeves during the glow run to "track" their laps.
- Please remember, in your weekly communication, to share the sign up for volunteers to join us at the GLOW RUN and help track laps:
SIGN UP TO HELP WITH THE FUN RUN!!!! Boosterthon Fun Run Sign Up -- sign up to help track laps for child's grade level! We hope to see you there to cheer on our runners!
Inflatable Racers, so far...
Laurie Palm
Deanna
Lindi
Ellie
Leah
Sarah P.
Tonight's challenge: The grade with the most Student Star Videos made on mybooster.com by tomorrow morning will get to have a Glow Stick Dance Party with the Booster Team! 
Friday, 11-14-25
BOOSTERTHON CLOSING CEREMONIES
Here is what we need from you:
- please EMAIL Sue if you would like to be a part of the inflatable race, we are looking for at LEAST one representative from each grade levels, specialists, support staff, and special education/intervention. IF we do not get enough representatives to cover these spots there may be a random drawing to ensure we have the spots filled.
- keep pumping up and encouraging fundraising for Boosterthon
Here is what you need to know:
- Closing Ceremonies will be at the Cinder lot (Rain plan: Gym) at 3:10pm on Friday, November 21st.
- There will be 3 races - two heats and a final - around a "track" at the Cinderlot.
- Students will be given pom poms when they arrive.
Parent Group Message to Send Home
Hi Teachers, please send the following in your peeks of the week. Our Nov. Newsletter and some upcoming dates! THANK YOU!
Hi Families,Upcoming Events:
~WRPG
Veterans Day BINGO/MENU
3-in-a row will do =) I misspoke about the blackout =0 Please let me know by Friday, 11/21. Treats for classes that complete a 3-in-a row, while supplies last!
Media Doors
An FYI for your travel plans... Julie and I have decided to keep the media doors closest to the learning lab closed/locked during the day in case of a safety event. This would allow her to safely bring her students to the learning lab without worrying about open doors to the atrium. One of the doors on the other side will remain open if people need to walk through the media center. Thanks for your cooperation.
Planning Ahead - Holiday Projects
Each classroom will get $100 for a holiday project of your choice. Please purchase the items and give the receipt to Sarah B.
Thursday, 11-13-25
Concert Tonight- Lock Doors
When you leave at the end of the day today, please go ahead and lock your classroom doors. This will keep visitors to the building out of your spaces during concert. Custodial will unlock and lock them again after they have cleaned your spaces.
Today's Forum
Report Cards
A couple of reminders:
- timeline
- if a student is getting a 1 or 2, please make sure parents/family has had some type of communication before report cards go home (see Sue with questions)
Illuminate Math Data
Don't forget to upload your math data into Illuminate after each unit. Let Olivia know if you need any help.
Sunshine Updates/Reminders
- Karen Frye and Ben Nadeau are the remaining NFL Survivor competitors
- Today is the last day to turn in your "Secret Sunshine Spreader" sheets to Daisy Stengl's mailbox.
- Plan your child care provider so you can come to Happy Hour on Tuesday, November 25.
Staff Boosterthon Shirts--If you signed up for a Boosterthon Shirt they are in my classroom. Please come in when you have some time and get your shirt. I have the shirts labeled by size, and a sheet for you to find your name and cross it off once you have picked up your shirt. If you're not able to come in and grab your shirt I can deliver it. I'll know who still needs their shirt by looking at the list, so please be sure to cross off your name once you've picked up your shirt---please take the size that is next to your name. Thank you! Alison
Wednesday, 11-12-25
Boosterthon Update
Hi Teachers,
Please share this information with your families!
Shelves from Flier's classroom - If someone took one of the shelves that Flier offered up yesterday, can you please bring it to Deanna's room? She and Leah both were the first to respond to the offer. Thank you!
Readers of the Month - November
So it's on your radar... we will be announcing the Readers of the Month on the Raider Report on Monday, Dec. 1, so please have your photos and descriptions to Jess by Friday, Nov. 21 (or before!).
Suicide Prevention Notice
The DPI Annual Model Notice for Youth Suicide Prevention - 2025/2026 has been posted in the staff workroom, as well as attached to this email. Please take a few moments to review the information when you can. It includes important guidance, resources, and procedures that help us support the safety and well-being of our students and each other.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you,
Alissa Miller
Forum Tomorrow
A reminder that we have a building forum tomorrow (Wednesday) at 8:00. Please bring all of your questions.
Lockdown Review
For those that missed the lockdown drill last week, please join me on Friday morning (Nov. 14) from 8:00-8:15 for a quick review in the media center. Thanks!
Cultivating T-Shirts - 11/19
Let's plan to wear our Cultivating the Best t-shirts for our Willow Wear next Wednesday, 11/19.
Resources/Reminders from Today's Para Training
- Scaffold Ideas
- Discussed Targeted Support (paras having specific goals for their work in the classroom, not crowd control)
- Coaching - Olivia is available to work with sped teachers/paras - just reach out
- presentation
- CKLA overview binder - will be available in the office by the end of the week (i.e. Units at a Glance, Unit skills, pacing, etc.)
Gratitude Journals
A parent donated some snacks to be used for students in need. You can come to the office to pick them up to keep in your classroom so students don't need to be sent to the office. Thank you.
Tuesday, 11-11-25
Up For Grabs!
There are 3 sets of noise cancelling headphones in the conference room cupboard -please grab one if you'd like a pair in your classroom.
Math Vertical PLC (11-10-25) - condensed summary
Skills Going Well
K/1: Counting, skip counting, making 10, calendar routine, enthusiasm for math
1/2: Skip counting 5s & 10s, partners of 10, Quick Looks routine
2/3: Addition & subtraction strategies, multiplication & division (rounding), math games carryover
3/4: Fact fluency, multiplication, skip counting, vocabulary, fractions on number line
4/5: Fraction knowledge, fact fluency, multiplication charts, ordering fractions, lattice multiplication, exponents, reporting remainders
Skills Still a Challenge
K/1: Number writing (especially teens), missing addend problems, tight schedules
1/2: Time, money, coaching during games, tight schedules
2/3: Time, money/coins, multidigit addition/subtraction (regrouping)
3/4: Subtraction with borrowing, fractions
4/5: Ordering & equivalent fractions, division, subtraction with borrowing, math vocabulary
Skills to Focus on as Students Learn and Grow (Next Grade Level)
K: Number formation, vocabulary (addend, missing addend)
1: Time (hour/minute/half-hour), money (values & multiple ways)
2: Telling time
3: Subtraction with borrowing (traditional), fractions (equivalent, comparing, benchmarks)
4: Long division, math facts
Parking Lot
Order of Operations – not explicitly taught; find another time to add this in? Possibly using the vocabulary as often as possible.
Observing other teachers – Possibly during Tri 2 or 3 to see the next grade level.
Number writing – Olivia is working on a slideshow similar to LOTD. She will share these out once it is complete, probably next week at PLC!
REMINDER: STEM Education and Outreach
This is from a Willow parent, Arika Johnson (arika.johnson@state.mn.us | 651-356-1336) - she's excited to work with Willow if anyone is interested!
MnDOT has a couple different classroom visit activities that they do. One is the MnDOT Bridge-in-a-Bag and is recommended for grades 3-10. The other one is the Toothpick and Marshmallow Bridge activity which is recommended for grades K-4. Both can have MnDOT employees come and talk about what they do at MnDOT and how they help the overall MnDOT function. Also the employees help with the activities and leading them. Here is a link to the website: https://www.dot.state.mn.us/stem/resources.html. Here's a link to the brochure as well.
Additionally, being in Aviation/Aeronautics, we have an outreach person who can help set up an outreach event or provide great aviation education information for classroom use. Our aviation contact is Darlene Dahlseide, and you can reach her at darlene.dahlseide@state.mn.us. Feel free to reach out and I can help anyone with getting additional information 
-Willow parent, Arika Johnson (arika.johnson@state.mn.us | 651-356-1336)
Monday, 11-10-25
Junior Achievement Kits
Hi Teams! All Junior Achievement Kits have been delivered and labeled. Please come pick them up sometime this week in my room. Let me know if you have any questions! Olivia
2025 Holiday Ornament Request from Governor Evers
Please see the link to the Governor’s request for Holiday ornaments for the 2025 Holiday Season. The theme of the 2025 tree is The Learning Tree to honor our educators, administrators, custodians, bus drivers, lunch staff, and so many others who play a critical role in helping our kids. The ornaments need to be sent by November 21 - the address is in the linked letter.
Hudson Community Oral History Project (Octagon House)
The Hudson Area History Connection - Octagon House Museum will be collaborating with community members to conduct an oral history project. They hope to collect oral histories over the next several months to expand their collections, and are inviting any individual, group or organization to share one or more stories about their experiences living, working, volunteering, serving, or exploring the Hudson area. If interested, you can fill out the Interest Form for a possible interview, which is available on their website: hudsonoctagonhouse.org/community-oral-history-project. You can also submit a written story to the Octagon House at 1004 3rd St. Hudson, WI.
Kindergarten Skills 4 Assessment
You should have received the materials for your Skills 4 assessment.
In your stack of copies there will be (similar to skills 3)
- pink packet of papers for each kid (part 1 and a recording sheet for part 2)
-10 word flash cards (you will need to cut apart)
- class set of student profile (attach to test and please send home to families)
-1 class composite page for you to keep the information for yourself.
As you approach the end of skills 4 and the reread this blurb in the manual (P5). Please note it says you only give part 2 (the flash cards) to kids who score at or below 7 on part 1. Just like with skills 3, please give this part 2 to ALL your students. The information you gain will be valuable for not only pausing points and but also small groups and purposeful station/intendent work. If this feels undoable in the 3 days given in the manual, please reach out for help/support.
Also if you need support planning out pausing points (2-3 days after the assessment) based on your formative data day to day and the more summative data on the assessment, please reach out to myself our your instructional coach. These are not days we want to skip, but rather days where we can provide extended practice and review for struggling students while also providing enrichment for students who are showing signs of success. We are happy to sort through the given pausing point activities and lessons to find out what would best support your students growth.
Friday, 11-7-25
Friday Funny!
I just stumbled upon this in my drive this afternoon - good for a little chuckle!! Thanks, Chris, for making us laugh =)
Friday FunnyThank you!
Thank you to all of the staff members (and their kids!) who helped with the Family Literacy Night last night. I think we had around 170 people! These are long days, but I always feel like it's worth it as we had lots of comments from families on how much they enjoyed and appreciated it. I am grateful for all of the staff who helped with every aspect of the event - planning, set up, running something, and clean up - many hands made the work bearable!
Monday's Vertical Math PLC - media center
8:00-8:20 - K-1, 2-3, 4-5
8:20-8:40 - 1-2, 3-4
Notes:
- This is for classroom teachers, and anyone else interested in the math discussions.
- Please bring your teacher's guides.
STEM Education and Outreach - the pictures were very cool!
This is from a Willow parent, Arika Johnson (arika.johnson@state.mn.us | 651-356-1336) - she's excited to work with Willow if anyone is interested!
Thanks again for the fun literacy night at Willow River. While I know there will still be activities like this at the other elementary schools, I am still sad thinking about not having this Willow River community next school year.
In regards to what I was telling you about last night when I was leaving, MnDOT has a couple different classroom visit activities that they do. One is the MnDOT Bridge-in-a-Bag that I was telling you about last night and showing you the pictures. That is recommended for grades 3-10. The other one is the Toothpick and Marshmallow Bridge activity which is recommended for grades K-4. Both can have MnDOT employees come and talk about what they do at MnDOT and how they help the overall MnDOT function. Also the employees help with the activities and leading them. Here is a link to the website: https://www.dot.state.mn.us/stem/resources.html. Here's a link to the brochure as well.
Additionally, being in Aviation/Aeronautics, we have an outreach person who can help set up an outreach event or provide great aviation education information for classroom use. Our aviation contact is Darlene Dahlseide, and you can reach her at darlene.dahlseide@state.mn.us. Feel free to reach out and I can help anyone with getting additional information Thank you again for all you do for our kids!
Sunshine Updates
From the Sunshine Committee - Consider these upcoming opportunities for FUN:
- Secret Sunshine Spreader - Fill out the form by Thursday, November 13 and put it in Daisy's mailbox. Find out your person on Friday, November 14th and spread sunshine the next week with reveal on Friday, November 21.
- Trivia at Hudson Tap - Wednesday, November 19
- Happy Hour - Tuesday, November 25 at Willow River Saloon
- Will-O-Mania, Tuesday, November 25
- Sue's Home Holiday Party - Wednesday, December 17
- Sue's Breakfast and Will-O-Mania - Friday, December 19
- Cookie Contest - Monday, December 15; details to follow
Noon Duty Supervisor Position
We welcome Katie Geier (sons Jack and Everett) as our new Noon Duty Supervisor! She will be working on Fridays, and will begin next week. Please welcome her to Willow when you see her.
Vertical PLC Meetings
I am planning a math and CKLA vertical meeting with classroom teachers. Any other staff that work in these areas are welcome to come.
- Monday, Nov. 10 - math
- Monday, Dec. 1 - CKLA
HSD Wellbeing Program
We’re excited to introduce the new HSD Wellbeing Program. Our goal is to support your overall wellbeing ~ physical, mental, social, financial, career and community.
Throughout the year, we’ll offer a variety of voluntary activities designed to help you feel your best and stay connected. Your input will help shape a program that’s meaningful and engaging for everyone, so please take a few minutes to complete our Wellbeing Interest Survey, that will be coming through Frontline Central. Anyone who completes the survey by Friday, November 14th will be entered into a drawing for some fun prizes.
As a kickoff, we are recognizing World Kindness Day ~Thursday, November 13th, with a Kindness BINGO game. Please choose one of the attached BINGO cards to play along. Submit a card with a completed BINGO (horizontal, vertical, diagonal or 4 corners) to Sarah Jamieson (jamiessj@hudsonraiders.org) or Sally Piernot (piernotsally@hudsonraiders.org) before Thanksgiving break and you will be entered into a drawing for more fabulous prizes.
If you are interested in using the Kindness BINGO with your students, you can download more BINGO cards at www.randomactsofkindness.org.
Keep an eye out for updates and opportunities to participate in upcoming wellbeing activities, beginning in January.
Thank you for helping us build a culture that values wellbeing, kindness, and connection. We look forward to seeing your enthusiasm and ideas as we launch this new program together.
Sarah Jamieson & Sally Piernot
Thursday, 11-6-25
Vanessa will be out Friday after 9am. There will be a sub in the Health Office Friday as well since Julie will be out too. Please limit visits to the office & health office by students.
5th Grade T-shirt order
Stop down to the workroom by Friday, December 5th to order a Willow River Athletic Department t-shirt - this is optional
Boosterthon Fun Run - IMPORTANT
The all-school photo has been moved to the beginning of the day (9:10), so some of the morning times have been adjusted 15 min. later. Please
check the schedule, and communicate with families. Thank you!!
Veterans Day - November 11th
Veterans Day Plan! Let me know if you have any questions!
- Our 5th grade teachers have created a menu of Veterans Day activities that teachers can choose to do with their classes. Any class that completes the menu (blackout!) will receive a small patriotic treat.
- 5th graders will talk about Veterans Day on the Raider Report on Tuesday, 11/11
- Everyone is invited to wear red, white, and blue that day.
Wednesday, 11-5-25
Welcome, Desaré Gonzalez!
We’re excited to welcome Desaré Gonzalez to our team! She’s joining us from Texas and brings lots of creativity and great energy. Desaré loves to draw, paint, and even tried her hand at crocheting. She’s an animal lover with two dogs who mean the world to her, and she describes herself as adventurous and always eager to try new things. Her favorite color is pink, and she enjoys listening to music in her free time. Desaré will be shadowing Julie Fenner on Thursday, November 13 before officially starting in her new role on Monday, November 17 — be sure to give her a warm welcome!
Thursday Night - Lock Doors
When you leave at the end of the day on Thursday, please go ahead and lock your classroom doors. This will keep visitors to the building out of your spaces during the DARE graduation and Literacy Night activities. Custodial will unlock and lock them again after they have cleaned your spaces.
Staff Food Collection -
As many of you know, several of our families will be experiencing a loss of FoodShare benefits starting in November, which can create additional challenges at home. To help support our students who rely on the Food Backpack Program, we will be collecting shelf-stable food items throughout the month of November from staff members, to add to those food backpacks.
If you are able, please consider contributing items such as:
Donations can be dropped off the staff lounge. We will be collecting items until November 17th.
Lockdown Reminders
For those that weren't able to make the staff meeting this morning, I will follow up with you. A reminder of what we talked about:
WR Lockdown Reminders (linked):
Lunch: if students are in the cafeteria, they will go to Alex's office and the staff lounge. Sped rooms would be back up, as needed.
Recess: students would go straight to the evacuation site; noon duty has rosters; staff should bring their own rosters
Resources: Let Vanessa know if you need a magnet, badge reminder card, or a color copy of the Crisis Response Process sheet; make sure you have a copy of your class list wherever your "hiding spot" is
Space: Identify a space that is out of site (use a colleague to help) before you practice with your students
Outside: Anyone outside should have a walkie as the office will do a walkie call after the overhead message; if outside, head straight to our evacuation site. Make sure you have access to a class list when you are outside; call the district office as soon as you are relocated (715-377-3702).
Notification: A reminder that anyone can make the announcement from any classroom phone (this is why you need the protocol sheet handy)
Window Coverings: you can have something in place that can be released to cover a door window in the event of an emergency. This covering is to remain up during normal classroom instruction. If you have a second door, it can remain covered.
Sub Plans: please make sure information for all of the drills are easily accessible in your sub plans, and the map(s) posted in your classroom.
SAC: Check in to make sure they are aware of the drill, and the protocol.
Auditorium: If you are in the auditorium, you are responsible to close the doors in the event of a lockdown. They are locked - just need to be closed.
Questions: Let Sue know if you have any questions.
Sign off: Please complete the drill by Friday, Nov. 7th and sign off on this document. This is for all teachers that have an instructional space.
revised 11-4-25
Jan. 2 Hours - one more thing!
Certified Staff: Unless pre-approved, the hours need to take place between December 8th-January 16th.
WI DNR Free Seedlings for Arbor Day - 4th graders
Tuesday, 11-4-25
Old Readers' Notebooks
We have several unused Reader Notebooks in the back workroom storage. Let Vanessa know by Friday if you have any use for them before they get recycled.
All K-Pop fans will love this "hallway expectation" rendition ;) Thanks Sarah!
Certified Staff - 7.5 hours for Jan. 2nd
Please add your hours to this spreadsheet. These hours (unless approved by the district) are on your own, outside of school hours, and need to be done in the building. This can include organizing materials, planning, grade level meeting, etc. The hours can be all at once, or in smaller increments. Let me know if you have any questions! Please record here:
WR Jan. 2nd 7.5 hours
Vertical Math PLC
All classroom teachers (and anyone else that’s interested) - we will meet Monday, Nov 10 at 8:00 in the media center. There will not be PLCs on Tuesday, Nov 11.
- 8-8:20 - K-1, 2-3, 4-5
- 8:20-8:40 - 1-2, 3-4 (K and 5th will be released)
Monday, 11-3-25
Google Classroom - Check Comments Setting
Please take a moment to check your settings in your Google Classrooms. You will click on the settings gear in the upper right corner. Under the heading "Stream and Classwork" verify that only teachers can post or comment on the Stream. Julie will go over expectations for commenting in Google Classroom and in Google Docs/Slides in media this week.
Union Listening Session
Your union will be having a listening session in Deanna Roering's Room on November 12 @ 4:00 for certified and non-certified staff. You can vote for recertification, let the union know how they can support us in this big change coming, and how you can belong to the union. Hope to see all of you there!
Willow Staff Trivia
This week's staff trivia theme is BUILDING TRIVIA, created by our resident building expert Ara! Check out the blue sheets in the workroom.
Family Means EAP Fall Newsletter
Opening Doors for School Events - from Betsy Gantz
Please keep this in mind when communicating for concert times, etc. If we have events starting or students arriving before 6:00, we will need to assign someone to the door to meet families and let them in.
It was brought to our attention that main doors at some schools have been pinned open prior to 6:00pm when School Age Care closes. Doors should not be pinned open until after School Age Care is closed for the day. Rule of thumb is 6:05 pm for evening activities. If things are scheduled prior to School Age Care closing, those individuals will need to find a way to let folks in. Could be Community Ed classes, or other school events that start before 6pm.
Family Literacy Night - need another helper!
I need someone to be at the front doors to let families in between 5:00-6:00 on Thursday night. 5:00 for DARE, 5:15 for pizza, and 5:50 for Bingo. Please let me know if you'd be interested in this position. It could count toward your 7.5 Jan. 2 hours. Thanks!
Friday, 10-31-25
As many of you know, several of our families will be experiencing a loss of FoodShare benefits starting in November, which can create additional challenges at home. To help support our students who rely on the Food Backpack Program, we will be collecting shelf-stable food items throughout the month of November from staff members, to add to those food backpacks.
If you are able, please consider contributing items such as:
Donations can be dropped off in the designated collection boxes located in the staff lounge at each building. We will be collecting items until November 17th.
Thursday, 10-30-25
Today's Staff Meeting
Here's the
link to the presentation from today's Staff Meeting. Check the presentation for information on Engagement Strategies, SLOs, and CICO documents.
Report Card Timeline
Raider Report Survey
Based on staff input, the Raider Report will be included in the All School Meeting tomorrow. Please make sure we are ready to go by 9:10!
Table Top Exercise: Severe Weather
Some notes from yesterday's Crisis Team's Table Top Exercise:
- Tornado Watch - staff will be notified with ParentSquare, and an overhead announcement will direct staff to check email.
- Tornado Warning - alert message will be on the loudspeaker to go to severe weather locations
- Severe Weather Hold will go into effect based on tornado warning (weather app) and radar, not the siren. The siren is not just for tornado warnings (also severe thunderstorms) and covers all of St. Croix County.
- To Go Bags - include something to do in case you are in a hold for awhile
- If in a hold, parents will not be able to pick up students. This will be communicated in the family newsletter.
Other notes:- Link to safety video Hudson Standard Response Protocol (4:49) we watched at the beginning of the year (optional review on your own)
- Window Coverings - these can used (paper or fabric) and can be "released/dropped" to cover window(s) on or near the door in the event of a lockdown. They will remain up during normal instructional time.
Preventing Child Sexual Abuse
Certified Staff: Space is limited but this would qualify for your January 7.5 floating day, if this is how you'd like to meet your hours. Please fill out the form below if interested. You would choose one of the sessions, as one works for secondary staff and one for elementary. You could get about 2.5 of your floating January hours.
Session Options:- Wednesday, December 3 from 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM; Hudson Middle School, Norman House Room 121
- Wednesday, December 10 from 4:40 PM - 7:00 PM; Hudson Middle School, Norman House Room 121
- Stewards for Children Sign Up Form
November 21 (3:00) - ALL SCHOOL PHOTO (4K-5)
We will get chalk marks on the playground that week so classes can practice. We will take 4K AM earlier that day, and somehow photoshop them in! Students and staff will be wearing their new Boosterthon t-shirts.
Progress Monitoring Update:
Please progress monitor until your grade's winter screener week begins.
Boosterthon Updates - Classroom Teachers:
The following is information re: Boosterthon registration and event timeline for you and to send to your families. Be sure to register yourself, and sign up for a time for the Booster Team to visit your classroom. This time will be the same each day of the program! Any questions, let me know! Alison
Boosterthon ACTION STEPS:
Your role is simple but important!
Classroom Visit Schedule
Everyday a Booster team member will come and visit your classroom at the same time!
ACTION ITEM: Please pick out a time on THIS SCHEDULE for the team to come and visit your class! (If you feel like you need more information) Watch the Teacher Meeting Video: CLICK HERE Register on MyBooster.com using your teacher code: CLICK HERE for code
Program Overview11/13 — Program Kickoff!
11/14 - 11/20 — Program Days
11/21 — Event Day
Send the following email to your families with your Peeks of the Week:
It’s time! You can register your student for our Willow River Glow Run! Our goal is to raise $18,000 for field trips, teacher requests, school and recess equipment, and school sponsored events (ie young author day). Signing up is easy and comes with a fun prize for your student!
️ Sign Up On MyBooster.com ️
Thank you for being a part of our Willow River Elementary community and helping us make a difference for our students. We are grateful for your support!
Follow our social pages for fun progress updates in the coming weeks!
Key Dates to Remember:
Fundraiser Kickoff in school – 11/13/2025
Event Day – 11/21/2025
Wednesday, 10-29-25
Picture Re-take Schedule -
Please use this schedule to send students to the Auditorium at your grade level times. There will be a last call announcement as well.
8:30-9am - Staff
9-9:15am - 4K & 3rd Grade
9:15-9:30am - 4th & 5th Grade
9:30-10am - Kindergarten, 1st & 2nd Grade (if you would like someone from the office to walk your student to the auditorium, please let us know)
Happy Hour, tomorrow, Smilin' Moose
Audrey Martin's Willow Painting - For those who would like to PAINT the WR painting that Audrey is offering as a print, Sarah Flier is in contact with her to set up a time this spring for us to gather and do so if interested! So if you'd rather paint it yourself instead of getting a print, hang tight! :)
IT Reminders - AI use in classrooms
No staff member can direct students to an AI tool at this time due to Federal Privacy Laws
Only approved tools can be used with students
Staff members using an AI tool need to understand FERPA/COPPA implications - ie: no student names, identifying information, etc. This includes student photos.
No app is approved to enter student work
For your optional review:- Slides - slide 20 is specific to AI
- Video (22 min.) - play at 1.25 speed
RESPECT Bingo - 2 more days!!!
Elementary Open Houses
With the news of school closure, we have had families express interest in seeing the different elementary buildings. Last night, the board discussed and was in favor of us holding Open Houses for E.P. Rock, Hudson Prairie, North Hudson, and River Crest, so families can tour the buildings. The attached invite will go out to our families this week. We will discuss volunteer opportunities for all staff as the dates approach. If this is something that you would be interested in volunteering for, put a placeholder in your calendar for now. More details to come!
November 17th:
5:30-6:30: North Hudson
7:00-8:00: Hudson Prairie
November 18th:
5:30-6:30: E.P. Rock
7:00-8:00: River Crest
Tuesday, 10-28-25
Raider Report on Friday, 10/31
Certified Staff: We have 3 choices - please take this 1-question survey by the end of the day on Wednesday to indicate your preference (as scheduled, pre-recorded, or part of the All School Meeting).
Raider Report Survey for 10/31. Out of Snacks
There are no more snacks available in the office, until further notice.
Audrey Martin Print of Willow
Donate to United Way
To pledge your support, use the QR code in the video or click on the the link below, and select “Hudson School District” from the employer drop down menu. https://www.uwvalleys.org/pledge-form
Our campaign will run through Sunday, November 23rd. Everyone who participates will be eligible for a drawing for a $100 gift card to San Pedro (thanks to a donation from a school district supporter).
If you are choosing payroll deductions for your pledge, please choose 12 pay periods. The first deduction will be on December 15, 2025 and the final deduction will be on May 29, 2026.
Half of all undesignated contributions from district staff will be reinvested directly back into our school district to help students in need.
Monday, 10-27-25
Keep the Boo Grams Going
Make sure if you've been boo'd you pass on a treat to the next person to keep the Boo Grams going.
Here’s how Boo Grams work:
- Once you receive a Boo Gram (treat) in your mailbox, attach a "Boo Crew" flag and display it on your mailbox to let others know that you have been Booed. If you share a mailbox, please write your name on the "Boo Crew" flag.
- Then, keep the fun going by “booing” another staff member with a small treat (less than $5) as soon as possible. Grab the black "You've Been Booed!" tag from the workroom and attach it to this new treat and spread that spooky cheer around the building by putting it into someone's mailbox that DOES NOT have a "Boo Crew" flag!
- If you aren't interested in participating, just tape the "Boo Crew" tag to your mailbox so you don't get boo'd.
- Our goal is to get everyone "Booed" by the end of October!
Fine Arts Night
Thinking ahead... our FAN isn't until April, but we've decided on a theme of Enchanted Forest, and are looking for any type of fake trees to build our own Enchanted Forest. If you have an old artificial Christmas tree, or any other type of tree you'd like to donate (or are willing to let us use), please let Milena know. We don't need anything until April, but just in case you're cleaning out your holiday decor! Thanks!!
SLO Reminders - by Oct. 29 if possible!
1. please include a data collection sheet/table to show baseline and End of Year Goal
2. Save and Notify when finished; you will be able to get back in and complete your PPG if that isn't done yet.
Lost and Found
Please bring your students by the Lost and Found tables sometime this week. Remaining items will be donated after Friday, Oct. 31.
Nov. 10 - MATH Vertical PLC meeting
Classroom teachers will be meeting K-2 and 3-5 on Monday, Nov. 10th to have vertical conversations about EDM. Sped is invited to join if you teach EDM. There will not be PLCs on Tuesday, Nov. 11th.
RESPECT Bingo
We have a winner! 1J was the first class to get a blackout! Classrooms have 3 more days to get a blackout - and we will provide Dum Dums for your BINGO prizes!
Friday, 10-24-25
Boosterthon Meeting Recap:
- Event dates are 11/13-11/21
- 11/13 is concert day---Concert will begin at 2:50 PM. Booster team will kick off our event immediately following the concert, so please be sure you have your students packed up and ready to be dismissed before getting to the auditorium (Boosterthon presentation will be wrapped up by 3:45)
- Event Day 11/21 (Friday). HERE IS THE SCHEDULE
- Shirts have been ordered for staff and students from Ink'N'Threadz. We will pass out the number you'll need for your grade level. Please DO NOT send these home, you will hand these out on the Fun Run Day! All students will wear their new shirts on 11/21
- If our goal is met: Tier 1 incentive is a blow up-costume-mascot race; and we'll think of a way to celebrate the students affiliated most with that adult!
- Class/Grade level incentives---Use the stickers provided in your packet to create your own incentives (unless you have a connection to a super bowl champ....then keep your options open)
- Any questions? Ask away!
RESPECT Bingo
Classrooms have 4 days to get a blackout - and be the first to complete it to earn a class treat, a class game of Bingo (and some extra prep time!)
Candy Corn Trivia
Congratulations to Courtney and Melissa B. on winning this week's Candy Corn Trivia. In preparation of an upcoming Willow Staff Trivia, please take a minute to complete the following survey:
Willow Staff Trivia, by Nov. 5. Thanks.
Staff Lockdown Drill
We are going to do an ALL STAFF lockdown drill on Wednesday, Nov. 5th, as part of a staff meeting. Teachers will be expected to walk through it
with their students by Friday, Nov. 7th. Classroom, sped, and specialist teachers will need to document that you had the discussion with your students:
Lockdown Review completed with students.
Celebration of Nations (earlier email today)
The Celebration of Nations Committee is excited to announce that we’ll be hosting the 5th Annual Celebration of Nations on April 24th at Hudson High School! This community-wide event celebrates the many cultures that make our community unique, and we hope to involve as many students as possible in sharing and learning about global diversity.
We’re inviting classrooms to create projects that showcase learning about different cultures. To make participation easy, we’ve aligned possible project ideas with current CKLA topics, so this can naturally extend your existing instruction. Click on the link to find ideas! If helpful, you’re also welcome to use a Pausing Point Day to complete your project.
Once your class selects a project idea, please take a moment to fill out this quick survey. If you’d like support, Julie Hambleton and Elizabeth Dawson are available to help classrooms with their projects—just reach out to Samantha Thrane to coordinate.
When your project is complete, please give it to your Instructional Coach along with a short description that includes:
Thank you for helping our students celebrate and learn from the many cultures that make up our community! Warmly, Olivia Condon and Samantha Thrane
Lost and Found
Please walk your students by the lost and found tables in the entryway. Items will be disposed of at the end of the day, Friday, October 31.
Thursday, 10-23-25
SLO Request
Certified Staff: I'd like to share everyone's SLO at the Oct. 30th staff meeting - which means you need to have them "saved and notified" by Oct. 29th (even though they aren't due until Oct. 31). If you are able to get yours done, that would be great - I'd like the staff to know the goals we are all working on. If you can't - no worries!!
Readers of the Month Due - Please make sure you have your write up and photo to Jessica by the end of the day Wednesday next week so she has time to put the slides together for the All School Meeting on Friday morning. Thank you!
Respect BINGO
Let Sue or Sarah know if your class gets a black out - we will run BINGO (and you will get a 15-20 min. extra prep!).
Literacy Night - Nov. 6
Still looking for the following - let Sue know if you can help out:
- putting together 3 prize baskets for drawings (you'll be reimbursed)
- ideas for BINGO prizes (let Vanessa know and she can order them)
- help with 2nd-5th Bingo (5:45-6:30) - need 2
- help with large motor games in the gym (6:30-7:15) - need 3-4
Updated Process for Course Approval, Submission, and Reimbursement (Certified) - from an earlier email today
Effective immediately, the process for course approval and submission of credits will all be completed through Frontline Central. All courses submitted for approval through the Google Form have been processed by Shannon and the form will no longer accept responses.
Please familiarize yourself with the process outlined below and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. I’m happy to help.
Credit Submission and Reimbursement Process
All Forms can be found in Frontline Central
under “My Forms” and then “Forms I Can Start”
Complete the Course Approval Form or Master’s Program Approval Form in Frontline Central.
Complete Course(s) by August 31st.
Complete the Verification of Course Completion and Request for Reimbursement Form in Frontline Central (An Official Transcript must be attached) by September 30th.
If you have earned your first Master’s Degree, you must also submit the Master’s Attainment Form in Frontline Central.
A maximum of 9 Credits per school year (September 1st - August 31st) can be applied toward lane movement (additional earned credits can be banked for future years)
A maximum of 6 Credits per fiscal year (July 1st - June 30th) can be submitted for reimbursement at $50/credit.
Credits will be applied and updated in October. If the submitted credits trigger a lane placement adjustment, a revised contract reflecting the new placement will be issued and retroactive pay for the salary adjustment will be provided, effective from the first pay period of the school year.
Wednesday, 10-22-25
Character Trait: Respect - Bingo Board
- The first class to get a blackout will get a bingo game hosted by Sue and Sarah (and the teacher will get 15-20 min. prep!). Please let the office know as soon as you get a BLACKOUT, and we will work with the teacher to schedule the game! For all others that finish before Oct. 31, teachers can choose a time to play Bingo with their class - prizes (Dum dum suckers) will be provided by the office. Good luck!
- I'm looking for photos of students demonstrating RESPECT, especially related to the RESPECT Bingo Board in each classroom, to share at the all school meeting. Please send photos to Sue by Thursday, Oct. 30th. Thanks!
Frontline Observations
Certified Staff: You will notice that the Frontline observation forms look a little different this year. Here are some things to be aware of:
- You will get a notification when I submit the observation notes. It is my understanding that you don't have to do anything (like acknowledge) until all observations are completed, by the end of the year. I will let you know!
- There are spots for 6 observations - I will be doing the number already designated (not sure why there are so many!).
- The indicators are below, and will be dated with the observation for individual indicators. Strengths/Areas for Growth will not be shaded until further into the year, based on all of the evidence (not individual observations) since all of the indicator feedback is in the same place for all observations.
- There is a section where you can respond back. This is optional, unless I include "response required" - then I'd like you to send something back (there's a designated area).
- Let Sue know if you have questions!
ALL Staff (unless you're probationary and have done/will do with me!) - please complete by Oct. 31: Rounding Survey Thank you!
Tuesday, 10-21-25
Building Forum
The district has scheduled a building forum at Willow on Thursday, Nov. 13th.
All School Photo
The All School Photo has been rescheduled for 3:00 on Nov. 21, at the beginning of the Boosterthon Closing Ceremony. This way, students will be wearing their new Boosterthon t-shirts. More info to come!
Best Wishes to Julie F.
I want to share some bittersweet news - Julie has accepted the health assistant position at the high school, and her last day at Willow will be Nov. 14th. She has demonstrated a deep compassion for our Willow community, and has provided such a high level of care for students (and staff!). We will be sharing this with families later - but wanted the staff to know. Julie will be greatly missed!
Character Trait: Respect - Bingo Board
The first class to get a blackout will get a bingo game hosted by Sue and Sarah (and the teacher will get 15-20 min. prep!). Please let the office know as soon as you get a BLACKOUT, and we will work with the teacher to schedule the game! For all others that finish before Oct. 31, teachers can choose a time to play Bingo with their class - prizes (Dum dum suckers) will be provided by the office. Good luck!
Updated Weekly Schedule
Looks like the
Blog's Weekly Schedule didn't save when I updated it for this week - check it again, it should be fixed now!
Boosterthon Fun Run Schedule - FYI
Boosterthon Fun Run schedule; all school photo at 3:00 (before closing ceremony on the playground).
Childhood Halloween Photo
Wanted for an upcoming activity: Dust off your old photos and find one of you in a Halloween costume. You can be a baby, child or a teenager in the picture but try to stay away from Halloween pictures as adults. Please submit your favorite Halloween costume pictures to me by next Tuesday, October 28th. Thanks everyone!!
Elementary School Open House Proposal - FYI
The district has had some families express an interest in seeing the various elementary buildings this fall, so are proposing an Open House idea at Monday's School Board meeting. This would provide opportunities for families to tour any of the four elementary buildings that will be open for the 2026-2027 school year. The proposed dates are North and Prairie on Monday, November 17th, and Rock and River Crest on Nov. 18th. More info to come - just wanted to give you a heads up.
Notes from the Basement, by Ara Metz
Monday, 10-20-25
October Reader's of the Month - Due to Jess by next week Wednesday 10/29.
From the Desk of Olivia:
Now that PRPs and Target Time are up and running, please let Olivia know if you could use any additional support. This might include help scheduling time to meet with more students, resources for students on the bubble, or ideas for meaningful independent work. Don’t hesitate to reach out—she’s here to help!
Sunshine Reminders:
Next Thursday, October 30, is happy hour! We will meet at Smiling Moose.
Friday, October 31 is our next Will-O-Mania competition in the media center. See you at 8:00 a.m.
From Parent Group:
Hi Teachers, could you please include the following message from the Parent Group in your Peeks?
Hello Willow Families,To say that we are heartbroken by the decision to close our sweet school at the end of the year seems like an understatement. But, as we move forward with our planning, the Willow River Parent Group has some plans in the works to make this a year to remember for our students, families, and staff.
Our Boosterthon Fun Run fundraiser is coming up in the Month of November. While it might not seem as important to raise funds for our school at this time, please know that the funds raised from this year's fundraiser(s) will go toward:
- Young Author's Day in May
- End of the year All-School-Field-Trip (Details TBD but funds will cover the event activities, and transportation for all of our students)
- End of the Year Picnic and Willow Walk -- This is an end of the year tradition that we hope to add to this year
- Regular Classroom Field Trips for the 2025-2026 school year
- Teacher requests for materials not covered in classroom budget amounts but that benefit the learning and student experience for all of our kids
At the end of the year the remaining funds in our Parent Group account will be disbursed to the parent groups of the elementary schools our students will be attending; as well as to the middle school parent group to support our 5th graders moving on.
We are so thankful for our amazing family and community. I think we can speak for all when we say that we will hold the memories of our families' time here close to our hearts; and hope you do, too.
In the meantime, if you did not add your contact information to our parent group directory and would like to do so in order to hang on to the most current information moving forward. We have
re-opened the link for sign up and will update it as we see new entries added.
With gratitude,
~WRPG
BINGO Games Needed - HELP!
I'm looking for Word Bingo Games/cover ups for our Nov. 6th Literacy Night. Please let me know if you have something we can use, or we will purchase some. Thanks!
- 4K-1 word/sound bingo boards/cover ups
- 2-5 word bingo boards/cover ups
Cold Weather TOMORROW!
Please remind students to bring a sweatshirt or jacket tomorrow and Wednesday as it is going to be below 50 and they will need a coat.
CKLA Spotlight #2
This week's CKLA Spotlight comes from a 3rd grade teacher and the spotlight is on vocabulary instruction and usage. Reminder: the goal of the spotlight is to learn from each other and celebrate the amazing work happening across the district with our new CKLA resource. If there are specific things you are struggling with, have questions about or want to see if anyone is doing anything with a different spin on it: please let me know and I will go on the hunt for ideas!
Thursday, 10-16-25
Today's Staff Meeting
Here's a
link to today's presentation - please take a look for information on engagement, IEPs, and school safety. Let me know if you have any questions.
Confidentiality - ALL STAFF
One of the things Rachel mentioned today was a reminder about confidentiality. I'd like to reinforce the importance of this, for all staff. We have access to very personal and individualized information for our special ed students, which is critical for the work that we do, but should not leave the building. It can be inadvertent comments or story sharing that can release confidential information to people that really shouldn't have access. It's always a good thing to remind ourselves - for the protection of our students, and ourselves. If you have questions, please let me know.
Thank you!
Thank you to the gifts this morning - the mosquito protection is still making me giggle!! I appreciate all of you - especially your sense of humor =)
WR Literacy Night - Nov. 6
Media Center Doors
Please leave the doors between the media center and the atrium closed. We are experiencing an invasion of wasps that is making teaching in the media center challenging. We are confident the problem will resolve itself once the cold weather arrives.
IEP Meeting Coverage
I wanted to follow up on some questions I received about coverage for IEP meetings and offer a process:
- Special ed. case managers will typically plan for their meeting to be done before students arrive (i.e. 8-8:45).
- If they think a meeting will go longer, they will let the general education teacher / team know what time they expect the meeting to be done by.
- The teacher is responsible for finding coverage for their class. People to reach out to may include: Sue/Sarah/Rachel (if they are not LEA), Olivia, Laurel/Katie/Sarah if they don't have groups and specialists if they have time before class. If you have difficulty finding coverage, please let the case manager or Sue know.
- If a meeting goes unexpectedly long, the team will decide if we can quickly find someone to cover your room and continue the meeting or if we need to plan a 2nd meeting to finish discussions.
Please let me or the sped team know if you have any other questions. Have a great long weekend! - Rachel
Wednesday, 10-15-25
October 31 - Early Release (from Laura)
First, thank you to all staff for your work to make the beginning of this school year so wonderful for students! Thank you to classroom teachers for the incredible work you continue to put into CKLA. We’ve been seeing so many wonderful strategies and successes in classrooms, and we want to give you the chance to share those ideas while also problem-solving together.
We've heard there is interest in grade-level collaboration around CKLA. We’re excited to provide this opportunity on October 31st from 2:45–4:00 at EP Rock. Each grade level will meet in the following rooms:
K – Room 204 (Martini)
1 – Room 205 (Ogren)
2 – Room 109 (Gonzalez)
3 – Room 101 (Beer)
4 – Room 312 (Shimon)
5 – Room 303 (Miller)
Initially we had scheduled for the K-2 ELA committee to meet during this time to vet the remaining CKLA units; however, the coaches and I will meet to do the vetting another time to free up your schedules for this grade-level work.
If you are a SPED, EL, GT, or Reading Teacher, please choose the grade level that aligns best with your caseload. You and your team may decide to divide and conquer; whatever works best! Other specialists (PE, Art, Music, Media, Life Skills) are encouraged to meet with your respective teams for collaboration as well.
We know how valuable this time is, and we’re working on ways to make grade-level CKLA collaboration a more regular occurrence! Thank you again for all the dedication you bring to your students and to CKLA! Please reach out to Teaching and Learning with any questions you might have.
Celebration of Nations Committee and Event Volunteers
This year will be our 5th annual Celebration of Nations event! It will take place at Hudson High School on April 23, 2026. We are currently looking for members to join our committee as well as volunteers during the event! This committee will be voluntary and meet approximately once per month until April.
As a member of the CON committee, some duties you may have include:
Encourage teachers and schools to participate and create projects for display at the celebration.
Support teachers and schools with creating projects for the Celebration
Contacting businesses for food and supply donations
Reaching out to cultural performers for costs and availability
Reach out to the community to find presenters
Create videos or posts to promote the Celebration of Nations
Create labels for projects and artifact tables
We would love to have representatives from all schools in many different roles. If you are interested in being part of this committee, please complete this Google Form as soon as possible. Thank you so much for your consideration! We are excited to host our 5th annual Celebration of Nations on April 23, 2026.
CKLA Link in Table of Contents
Jenna linked the CKLA folder that she adds resources to into the Table of Contents. It is ever growing so if you are looking for things that she is making this is the spot to check. You will click on the heading, "CKLA FOLDER." You can see what that looks like below.
Let Olivia know if you have any questions!
Tuesday, 10-14-25
This morning's "rainbow" over Willow 
So Proud of You!
Thank you to every staff member for showing up today with a smile, and a focus on supporting the Willow students. Not only were you here for each other, your ability to keep the focus on kids was admirable. This was a tough day - probably one of the toughest in each of our careers - and you were amazing. I had no doubt, and I am so grateful.
Addison Filiatreaux asked me to share this
I didn't get to say this last part because I broke down into tears. But I wanted to share it with you...
And finally, I want to thank the entire staff at Willow. You have changed many lives and helped my children become who they are. We wouldn’t be the same without you.
Nov. 6th Willow Literacy Night - need a couple of things!
We are looking for the following items for the event:
- 4K-1 word/sound bingo boards/cover ups
- 2-5 word bingo boards/cover ups
- random stickers to decorate book boxes
- EXTRA HELP! Certified Staff: you can use this towards your Jan. 2 hours! Here's the Staff Helping Schedule - please fill in any empty spots!
Save the PHOTO Dates
- Friday, October 24 - 8:30 - ALL STAFF photo in atrium (wear Cultivate shirts)
- Friday, November 21 - 3:00 - ALL SCHOOL photo in Boosterthon t-shirts before the Boosterthon closing ceremony- shape of "WR!" with drone on playground - more info to come!
School Closures - district message
On Monday, October 13, 2025, the Board of Education made the very difficult decision to close Houlton Elementary and Willow River Elementary at the end of this school year. We recognize that this news brings many emotions – sadness, disappointment, and uncertainty. While change of this magnitude is never easy, we are committed to supporting our students, families, and staff every step of the way.
In the coming weeks, the District will begin developing a comprehensive transition plan. This plan will include:
Engaging families and staff in setting new elementary attendance boundaries.
Developing support for students academically, socially, and emotionally as they get to know their new school.
Ensuring staff are supported and valued through a robust staffing process.
Transition Plan Timeline
New elementary attendance boundaries - determined by February 2026
During January, the District will work with consultants from MGT to provide multiple opportunities for families and staff to give feedback on proposed elementary attendance boundary options.
A final decision on boundaries will be made by the end of February.
Staffing considerations - Spring 2026
Human Resources and Teaching & Learning will be working with certified and support staff to gather input on reassignment preferences.
Certified staff are expected to have notice of position reassignments or potential lay offs by the second week of March (prior to Spring Break).
Support staff are expected to have notice of position reassignments or potential lay offs by late April.
Student/Family Transition Activities - Spring 2026
Student Transportation Routes - Spring/Summer 2026
During the spring and summer, bus routes will be designed based on new school assignments.
Communication to families regarding bus routes will be communicated in early August.
We know that both Houlton and Willow River Elementary schools hold a special place in many hearts, and that closing a school impacts more than just a building. As we move through this transition, it is important to remember that we as a school community are resilient. Together, we will ensure that our students and staff continue to thrive and feel a strong sense of belonging in their new school.
Hudson School District Administration
Monday, 10-13-25
Scholastic Book Fair
Certified Teachers - don't forget to use your $100 for classroom materials at the Book Fair - it closes Thursday night.
Pumpkin Trivia
This week's Willow Trivia is all about pumpkins. Take 1 minute to complete the true/false questions for a chance to win a $5 Joe to Go gift card! Answers are due on Wednesday by 4:00, due to the short week.
Tonight's Board of Education Meeting
ParentSquare
The IT office is aware that some of your accounts in Parent Square were removed or changed over the weekend. We had a very unfortunate collision of updates between Parent Square and Classlink that actually broke our uploads and in turn removed accounts. We are working with Classlink and Parent Square to get your accounts reestablished and should have things back up and running in the next day or so. (I am hoping to have it up and running for tomorrow morning but technology...) There is no need to submit a help desk ticket at this point.
Family Communication for Peeks:
SAVE THE DATE - Family Literacy Night on November 6
Willow River is having a family Literacy Night on November 6 from 5:30-7:15 (Invitation for Literacy Night). We'd love to have families join us for a pizza dinner, literacy games, raffles, and a book exchange. Please RSVP by November 1st if you will be joining us for dinner so we can order enough pizza (RSVP form link for Literacy Night). If you'd like to help with additional food items, etc., please complete the Sign Up Genius for Literacy Night. We hope to see you there! NEEDED: Please consider donating any new or gently used books for the free book tables! You can send them to school with your child, or drop them in the office.
Dates from Sunshine:
Watch Party Tonight: Tracy and Ara's address is 551 Wild Berry Drive, arrive at 5:30 or after. Pizzas will be delivered at 5:45.
Trivia: Wednesday, 6 p.m. at Hudson Tap.
Happy Hour THURSDAY, October 30 at Smilin' Moose
Will-O-Mania Friday, October 31.
Boo-Grams: Keep the Boo-Gram going!
Friday, 10-10-25
Certified Staff: $100 for Book Fair
A reminder that Certified Staff each get up to $100 to spend at the Book Fair for classroom materials. Thank you, parent group!
Recipes from Last Night
There have been requests for the recipes for the sweet treats from last night’s dinner. Both were compliments of Jen Hinkel! Thanks for all you do,
WRPG
This Week's Willow Trivia Winners
Congratulations to Leah and Trish on winning this week's Old School Teaching Tools trivia! They each got a $5 Joe to Go gift card, compliments of the Willow River Parent Group!
Thursday, 10-9-25
Talking Points for Conferences (from Shannon)
We know that with the upcoming school closure decision, that this may be an emotional time for our school community. The TAC Committee requested some statements that could keep us on track if families come to conferences with questions about what’s next. Our goal is to keep the focus on each child — how they’re growing, connecting, and building confidence this year. The talking points below (if needed) are meant to help guide caring, positive conversations that celebrate students’ progress and reassure families that we’ll support them, and one another, through any transitions ahead.
Teacher Conference Talking Points
(Any of these would work, please choose which one(s) you are the most comfortable with if needed)
“I understand that you may have many questions, at this time I don’t have any more information than you do. The district will be communicating more in the months to come.”
“Let’s focus today on how your child is growing — both academically and socially — and how we can keep building on that progress.”
“Your child has made great strides in building relationships and showing resilience, which are skills that will serve them well at any of our elementary schools.”
“We’ve seen growth in how your child handles (your child is successful in handling) challenges and works with others — that confidence will help with any transition ahead.”
“Our goal is to keep your child feeling connected, supported, and excited about learning all year long.”
“We’re focusing on helping students feel ready for what’s next by continuing to strengthen their social and emotional skills and focusing on the positives .”
Encourage Family Partnership
“You can continue to support this growth by talking about the transition in positive, reassuring ways at home.”
“If one or more schools close, over the next few months, the district will have a detailed transition plan to support students and families every step of the way.”
Pokemon Cards
Please remind your students that they are not to bring Pokemon cards to school OR on the bus. These are causing issues in both places. Thanks.
BOOK FAIR
Teachers, please remember that each classroom has $100 to spend on books, courtesy of the WRPG. Grab the books you want and leave them in a stack on the table with you name if you are unable to stop by during conferences!
Boo Grams!
Boo Grams are here! 
This is fun way to spread some cheer by putting an anonymous treat in someone's mailbox, as a spooky surprise!
Here’s how Boo Grams work:
- Grab a handout from the office.
- Once you receive a Boo Gram (treat) in your mailbox, cut out the "Boo Crew" flag and display it on your mailbox to let others know that you have been Booed. If you share a mailbox, please write your name on the "Boo Crew" flag.
- Then, keep the fun going by “booing” another staff member with a small treat (less than $5). Cut out and attach the black "You've Been Booed!" tag to this new treat and spread that spooky cheer around the building by putting it into someone's mailbox that DOES NOT have a "Boo Crew" flag!
- If you aren't interested in participating, just tape the "Boo Crew" tag to your mailbox from the beginning.
- Our goal is to get everyone "Booed" by the end of October!
Wednesday, 10-8-25
Rounding
ALL Staff (unless you're probationary and have done/will do with me!) - please complete by Oct. 31:
Rounding Survey Thank you!
Conference Night - part time/itinerant staff
Here's a
link to which night staff members will be here.
October 14, 8:00-8:20
There will be an optional staff gathering on Tuesday morning in the media center, with a light breakfast served.
Willow Trivia
Get your guesses for Old School Teaching Tools in by 4:00 on Thursday. The winner will be announced on Friday's Raider Report!
Planning Ahead!
Forward Windows:
- 3rd grade - April 13-17
- 4th grade - April 6-7, 9-17
- 5th grade - March 30-April 3
Willow Literacy Night - Nov. 6th (5:30-7:15)
Thank you to the Leadership Team for helping to plan this year's Literacy Night, and to the parent group for supporting it with a pizza dinner! Coming soon - staff can sign up to help that night. In addition, please consider donating any new or gently used books for the free book tables - a good time to clean out =)
Tuesday, 10-7-25
SLO Reminder
- SLO Frontline 2.0 Review - see this presentation on your own for information; let Sue know if you have questions
- October 31 - SLO/PPG due; SAVE and NOTIFY
- Thank you to everyone that got their Instructional Goals completed!
- Please let Olivia know if you have any questions or need any support with your SLO/PPG.
Monday, 10-6-25
Fastbridge Reports - Conferences
We are not handing out paper Fastbridge reports to parents at conferences. They can access them in NextPath. Directions were sent to families in September. You can ask families if they have questions and if needed pull the report up on your computer to show them during your conference time.
Classlink Sign In From Home Instructions
Look for instructions for how to sign in to Classlink from home in your mailbox this later week. Please make these available to families during conferences (or put one in every conference folder). I am sorry for not thinking ahead on this and getting it to you sooner. ~Julie W
Book Fair Donation Slips & Red Tickets
Blank donation book slips are available in the workroom. Fill them out and put them in your slot on the display board by the book fair for parents to use for making donations to your classroom. Make additional copies as needed.
In your box today you will find 2 "red tickets" for the Book Fair. Please use these however you see fit in your classroom! Let me Sarah B or Alison know if you have any questions.
Readers of the Month
We will be celebrating September's Readers of the Month on Wednesday, Oct. 8 (right after the Raider Report) in the Learning Lab!
Willow River Trivia
Who needs to go to Hudson Tap when we have TRIVIA right here in our own work room?! Each week there will be a new topic - put your answers in the drawing for a chance to win a $5 gift card to Joe to Go (compliments of the Willow River Parent Group). Winners will be announced Friday mornings on the Raider Report. Check the work room for this week's topic - OLD SCHOOL TEACHING TOOLS. Good luck!
SLO Update
We ran out of time to talk about this at our staff meeting last week, so here's the info you need:
- SLO Frontline 2.0 Review - see this presentation on your own for information; let Sue know if you have questions
- October 31 - SLO/PPG due; SAVE and NOTIFY
- Thank you to everyone that got their Instructional Goals completed!
Building Goal Update
The School Board has asked for a 3% increase on all academic goals, based on last year's end-of-year data. As a result, our reading and math goals will be the following:
- ELA: 71% of students in grades 3-5 will be at meeting or advanced in ELA by spring, 2026. (2025 results = 68%)
- Math: 79% of students in grades 3-5 will be at meeting or advanced in math by spring, 2026. (2025 results = 76%)
CyberSecurity Awareness - Week 1
October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a campaign aimed at educating the public and businesses on digital safety and how to protect against cyber threats. The 2025 U.S. theme is "Building a Cyber Strong America," and we're planning 4 weeks of activities with fabulous prizes. Each week, we'll have a phishing campaign, puzzles or activities, and emails with information to help strengthen our organization and support your personal growth.
Week 1:
We have pushed out a short (2-minute) video about being a Human Firewall as well as Trivia. Your name will be entered into the drawing for each activity you complete.
- Video: This was sent via email to all staff via email from KnowBe4. I will get a report at the end of the week with the names of all staff who completed the activity.
- Trivia: Complete the Google Form with Cybersecurity trivia. Your name will be entered into the drawing if you complete the trivia. Your score is not the most important thing. :-)
- Amanda will send another email at the beginning of next week with the 4 winners and any pertinent information for the upcoming week.
I saw this and it made me chuckle - done with voices, and classroom instruments =)
Paraprofessional Training: Connecting the IEP with the Role of a Paraprofessional
We are pleased to announce an opportunity for paraprofessionals to attend an event specifically designed to increase their understanding of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and how they inform and guide their daily responsibilities and actions. Through this training, paras will explore the definition of special education, the process through which students qualify for special education services and walk through the key components of an IEP. By having a clearer understanding of disability-related needs and how they connect to individualized goals and services, paraprofessionals can help ensure their practices lead to students receiving meaningful access to all educational environments and making progress.
See the flyer for more details and click on the link to register. The event is being offered virtually, after school from 3:30-4:30 on November 10th.
Spending Time Outdoors
Something I was thinking about during noon duty recess today...
You've surely heard that spending time outside is good for both your physical and mental health, but is there a magic formula to know how much time you need to spend in the great outdoors to realize these benefits? It turns out there is, and it's called the 20-5-3 rule.
The 20-5-3 rule is actually three goals in one: People should aim to spend 20 minutes outdoors each day; spend five hours a month in semi-wild outdoor locations (ex. walking/hiking); and spend three days a year in nature (i.e. camping). The rule was created by neuroscientist Rachel Hopman to encourage people to take manageable and meaningful steps to improve their well-being.
The easy one - spend at least 20 minutes a day outdoors. This is the amount of time that will lower your body's level of cortisol, our primary stress hormone, according to research conducted by the University of Michigan. This time spent outdoors doesn't have to be active; the act of simply being outdoors, experiencing the sensory inputs that come with it, is all that is necessary.
Friday, 10-3-25
Community Education - additional tutors.
Certified-staff/subs are paid $35.00/hr for tutoring.
Non-Certified staff are paid $25.00/hr for tutoring.
Community Education assists in connecting tutors with students and manages all of the payments from families to tutors. Payment to staff is made through District payroll.
Click here for more information if you are interested in tutoring.
Tutoring is open to all students. Students may make a request for a specific staff member but are not guaranteed the staff member is available. Per state statute and School District policy, paid tutoring/lessons/training at school sites and/or using school equipment is permitted only through the School District’s tutoring program, coordinated by Hudson Community Education. No paid tutoring/lessons/training on school sites is permitted other than through Community Education. Questions may be directed to Jennifer Blank at 715.377.3722 or blankjennifer@hudsonraiders.org.
Conference Questions
If you are interested, here's an
example of questions to send home to families prior to next week's conferences. Sometimes, this can give you a heads up of a concern so you have a chance to think about it before the conference. This is optional, not required!
Happy BOOK FAIR season! (and conferences)
A few Book Fair related items:
1) You will find 2 "red ticket" (or however you want to use them) coupons to raffle off to a student for a free BOOK from the Book Fair. Please hand these out before the final day of the Book Fair on Oct. 14th. IF the child who receives the gift certificate will not be attending conference with their parent you can have them pick a book and leave it, with their coupon, to be checked out and left in their teacher's mailbox. Please include class code and name on book.
2) Please sign up for a slot to bring your class to preview the Book Fair
here. Please remind them to put books back where they found them after looking.
3) We love teacher and teachers love books! Please enjoy $100 of "Book Fair Bucks" from the WRPG. This is for ALL classrooms! Please pick your books and leave them in a pile to be checked out with your name on it.
Please reach out to Sarah B or Alison with any questions!
Thursday, 10-2-25
Happy Custodian Appreciation Day, Ara!
Velcro Carpet Dots
Milena has some Velcro carpet dots that don't work for her classroom - let her know if you're interested!
Conferences
Please let me know if you'd like me to attend any conferences on Oct. 14th. A reminder that I will not be here for Oct. 9th conferences.
Conference Child Care - from parent group
This year over conferences the Willow River Parent Group will be providing childcare during conferences. We have NHS students volunteering to support us! Once you arrive for conferences- you can check-in at the book fair and our volunteers will direct you and your children. We thought this could be a helpful way to allow parents more quality time during their conferences!
Rounding - ALL Staff
- What is going well?
- What is challenging?
- How can I support you?
- Anyone that has been helpful/encouraging?
Today's Staff Meeting
Please review the McKinny-Vento, PBIS, and Elopement Team information from
today's staff meeting. We will review the safety information at our next meeting.
School Board Meeting Watch Party - Oct. 13
The Metz Family will host a watch party at their home for the upcoming board meeting on Oct. 13. The board meeting begins at 6:00 pm. More info to come!
All Staff Willow WOW!
As I've been getting responses on the Rounding survey, I've had several new staff share how they have found Willow to be amazing, and that everyone has been so supported and welcoming. Thank you, to everyone, for showing the Willow Way to all staff, especially our newest members.
Menu Change - Next Tuesday will be Pancakes instead of French Toast Sticks.
Wednesday, 10-1-25
Lunch for staff tomorrow!
Surprise
--The Willow River Parent Group is providing lunch for staff tomorrow! They have arranged for a selection of wraps and salads from Post- American Eatery. YUMM!
Additional PRP/Small Group Resources
I sent some resources yesterday, and have a few more to add! These aren't necessarily new, but just a reminder of what is available. These links (and yesterday's) can also be found on the blog (Act20/CKLA tab).
- PRP Resources
- CKLA ARG (K-3) and DRG (4-5) - don't print all pages, but look for what you need (they are 100+ pages).
- CKLA Pausing Point activities
- Phonics to Reading lessons - previous K-2 phonics curriculum
- Decodable books (in old 1st grade commons)
- Intervention Tool Kit Link -
- K-2 found in Unit Overview in Amplify platform
- 3-5 found in Amplify Platform on the left side within the Apps section
- Practice pages for intentional independent work - found in the From Phonics to Reading Folders
- Please reach out to Olivia with any questions - she's happy to help!
St. Croix Valley Foundation Music Education Grants
St. Croix Valley Foundation (SCVF) is accepting applications for its Music Education Competitive Grant Program. Grants ranging from $500-$5,000 support programs that enhance the quality of K-12 music education for public and private schools located in the St. Croix Valley (Washington and Chisago counties in Minnesota and Burnett, Pierce, Polk and St. Croix Counties in Wisconsin). Additional information is available at SCVF’s website. Grants are due October 24, 2025. .
Other Grant Opportunities (contact Tim Miner with questions)
#1
Applications for the Education Foundation of Hudson should be submitted to the Superintendent's Office by 5:00 p.m., Monday, October 27th.
All grant applications need to be submitted to the Superintendent's office, where they are approved and submitted together. All grants are scanned and submitted electronically, it is helpful if you submit grants single-sided with paper clips.
#2
The AnnMarie Foundation has moved to a fully online application process. All grants submitted will be reviewed and prioritized by the administration. All grants should be submitted by 5:00 p.m., Monday, October 27th. Here is the link to the AnnMarie Foundation website.
Morning Line Up and Photos
Thank you to everyone for taking the time to be outside at line up on your scheduled week, and for submitting photos to Julie for the Raider Report. A reminder to use the morning time as a chance to welcome students to school, reinforce positive behavior with blue tickets, and building relationships with our WR students. Thanks!
Tuesday, 9-30-25
Rounding Survey
Picture Retake Day - Date Change
Due to the use of the auditorium on our original retake day (Tuesday, Oct. 28), it has been rescheduled to Thursday, October 30th. We will update calendars and let families know - but it will be helpful for you to let students/families know, too - please share with families in your Peeks:
The date for Picture Retake Day has been changed to Thursday, October 30 from 9am-11am.
NOTE #1: If a student purchased a picture package on the original Fall Picture Day and would like to get a re-take, please have them bring in the picture package they have received and turn it in to the photographer on retake day. Once this picture package is received, it will automatically trigger their order to be re-processed with the new retake image.
NOTE #2: If a student did not purchase a picture package on the original Fall Picture Day and is planning to get a picture taken on Fall retake day, they should use the retake picture Photo ID # VTCRGTGP to purchase a picture on line, or turn in a paper order form (cash/check orders) to the photographer on retake day.
NOTE #3: If a student purchased a picture package on the original Fall Picture Day, but was absent or did not get photographed, they do NOT need to complete a new order. Once their picture is taken on retake day, their previous order will still be in the system and will be applied to their picture taken on retake day.
Employee Wellness (from Sarah J.)
Good morning. We are excited to announce the creation of a District Wellness Steering Committee to support the health and well-being of our staff. This committee will play an important role in shaping initiatives that benefit all employees across the district. We hope to bring together a mix of certified and support staff from each building. If you are interested in joining, please complete the form below by Friday, October 3rd. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. Your perspective will help guide meaningful wellness efforts across the district. Wellness Steering Committee Interest Form
Spelling Support/Resources
As many grade levels are finishing up their spelling screeners, a reminder of the resources we have available for follow up instruction:
Thank you!
Thank you to Susan Erickson and Mackenzie Gryga for helping out Amy B. with coverage yesterday when we were short on subs. I truly appreciate the "it takes a village" approach to everyone helping out as needed. From 4K to 5th grade - what great support!
Report Cards
A reminder that report cards should reflect progress to the end of the year expectations. Families should be aware of this, but wanted to send teachers a reminder. Also, a 3 means consistent and independent. Some things to keep in mind as you begin to think about conferences, and what you want to share. Let me know if you have any questions!
Classroom Volunteers
We have some high school students who are available at the end of their day to volunteer in classrooms (3:00-3:45). Let Sarah Flier know if you’re interested.
End-of-Day Dismissal Changes
To help eliminate confusion and ensure a safe and smooth dismissal process, please keep the following in mind regarding student transportation or end of day changes:
Parents must contact the school office directly to report any changes to how their child will go home. These changes should not be sent to teachers via text, email, ParentSquare, or other messaging platforms.
If a parent contacts you directly with a change in dismissal plans, please respond with a reminder for them to call the office and also inform the office yourself so the change can be properly documented.
This process is essential to ensure that all staff involved in dismissal are working from the same information and that every student is accounted for accurately.
Thank you for helping us maintain consistent and safe procedures for student dismissal.
Please share this message in your Peeks:
Important Reminder: End-of-Day Transportation/Going Home Changes
To ensure the safety and proper dismissal of all students, please follow these guidelines when making changes to how your child goes home:
Any change to your child's usual dismissal plan must be communicated to the school office either by sending a written note with your child at the beginning of the school day, or by calling the school office directly at (715) 377-3880.
Please do not send dismissal changes to your child’s teacher via email, ParentSquare, or any other messaging app, as they may not be able to check messages during instructional time or there may be a substitute in the classroom.
Do not communicate changes directly to your child during the school day through smart watches or phones. This can cause confusion and may lead to a breakdown in dismissal safety protocols.
These procedures help us maintain a smooth and secure dismissal for every student.
In cases where buses are delayed (such as the recent Friday delay), we will gather all bus riders and then escort students whose parents have called to change them to parent pick-up to the parent pick-up line as a group to ensure they are accounted for and safely released.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep all students safe and organized during dismissal.
(also for Peeks of the week)
Additional note:
Smart watches may be used for time, but not communicating. Please remind your child that students are not allowed to text/call during the school day. If a child is sick, for example, the school protocol is for the student to go to the health office, and then the health office will contact parents/families if needed.
Monday, 9-29-25
NFL Survivor: Thanks to the Chargers, we say "Ba-Bye" to the following people from NFL Survivor: Pat Ross, Daisy Stengl, Chris Reckinger, Haley Bohl
Trivia on Wednesday at Hudson Tap, 6 p.m.
Conferences
I will be out of the building on the evening of Oct. 9th, but please let me know if you'd like me at any of your conferences on Oct. 14th.
Mother-Son Event
Please share with families!
Community Education is hosting the 3rd Annual "Mother Son Night of Fun" on Saturday, November 1, 2025!
This event brings together moms (or mother figures) and their favorite little guys for a fun-filled night of games and activities. Volunteers Needed! To offer this large-scale event, we rely on parent volunteers to help with various tasks, including coat check, registration, snack station, and supervising inflatables.
If you would like to be one of our critical helpers, please click here to sign up.
Details and registration for the event can be found by clicking here.
Friday, 9-26-25
Student Boosterthon Shirt orders
WR Everything Calendar
Just a quick reminder: we have a building-wide “Everything Calendar” in Google. It’s used to track building events and note personal days, so you can easily see if a day is available before scheduling time off. Click the link to access the calendar and add it to your Google account for future reference. I think everyone should have access already but if you can't see it let Vanessa know.
Background Check Reminder for Field Trip Chaperones
Parents & volunteers that want to help during field trips or in your classroom with students will need to have a current background check completed by the School District. I will NOT process printed background checks that are turned in until you tell me to; same goes for if a parent submits it online through Skyward-> you will need to let me know to run it. Teachers are responsible to verify if a background check has been approved (don't assume) by going to the District U Drive --> 1 HUMAN RESOURCES --> 5-Approved Background Checks --> VOLUNTEER BACKGROUND CHECK SPREADSHEET. Please check this prior to your field trip or first day the volunteer will be in your classroom. HR cannot process last minute applications so please make sure you allow enough time for processing. If you don't see the person's name in the spreadsheet but they told you they submitted one through Skyward, please let the office know. Skyward submitted background checks are not automatically processed. Please let the office know if you have any questions.
Birthday Celebration Request
With the extra excitement of LICE in the community we are suggesting a temporary pause on "fabric" items brought from home. Please be diligent with our birthday celebrations or classroom activities to limit the bringing of blankets, stuffies, etc. to limit the possibility of spreading it. If you have these items in your classroom, please bag them up, tied shut, and stored. Let Sue or Sara know if you have any questions.
Thursday, 9-25-25
Sunshine Reminders:
Bring a device to Will-O-Mania tomorrow - this can include a cellular telephone
Happy Hour on Friday is at Pier 500 - let's try to have 16 people like we did at Ziggy's!
Trivia, next Wednesday at Hudson Tap, 6:00 p.m. - October 1
Custodial Appreciation contributions for Ara can be brought to the office by Oct 1.
Student Boosterthon Shirt Size Orders
Classroom Teachers, I'm trying something new to determine sizing for Boosterthon shirts this year. Would you and your teams make a determination about sizes and fill in this table with the total number of shirts you'd need in each of the sizes you think you need for your grade level? I filled in first grade so you can see what I mean! THANK YOU! Alison
Teacher Advisory Committee
Deanna, Alison and Julie will be your Willow representatives on the Teacher Advisory Committee (TAC). We have a meeting October 1st. Please shoot us an email about any topics you would like for us to bring to the table.
Lifetouch Photos
Staff photos were delivered today. We will get them distributed to your mailboxes by the end of day tomorrow. If you would like that photo posted in the entryway on the staff wall, please bring one of the photos back to the office. Thanks!
Wednesday, 9-24-25
Spirit Week (Update)
There has been an increase in lice cases across the community, so we've revised our Friday's Hat Day for next week - it is now Crazy Sock Day. Jess printed a new flyer for you - it's in your mailbox.
- Monday, Sept. 29: Jersey Day/Favorite Team: Wear your favorite team jersey or gear
- Tuesday, Sept. 30: Twin Day: Match with a classmate by wearing the same color, match what your teacher may wear
- Wednesday, Oct. 1: Raider Pride: Wear Hudson Gear or Navy and White to show your school spirit!
- Thursday, Oct. 2: Favorite Color Day: Wear your favorite color from head to toe
- Friday, Oct. 3: Crazy Sock Day
Raider Report – Friday
I am out for a doctors appointment Friday morning, and I’m not sure I’ll be back by nine. Let me know if you are interested in anchoring the Raider Report for me!
Quick update from Jana (She says "Hi")
She is able to start therapy and walking lightly as long as she is wearing her brace and using crutches. Stitches came out on Monday. Still about another 6 weeks of therapy and then she can lose the crutches if it is going well.
This Week's Timesheets
Please indicate that there was a Forum on Wednesday morning in your timesheet notes if you started earlier than your normal time. Thanks.
Today's Forum
Monday, 9-22-25
Nursery Rhyme Olympics
Kindergarten will be hosting their first annual Nursery Rhyme Olympics on Thursday, Sept. 25th. We will be using the entire black top area as well as the "catwalk" and curly slide. We will be out there from 9:15-10:45. Sorry for the inconvenience!
We are in need of 12 yardsticks to tape our station signs. If we may borrow some from you, please have one of your students send it our way (labeled). We'll return them on Friday.
Thank you!
Leah & Lisa
Sunshine Events:
Will-O-Mania Friday morning in the media center, 8:00 a.m.
Happy Hour Friday afternoon at Pier 500, 4:05 p.m.
Upcoming: Custodian Appreciation Day
Thursday, October 2 is Custodian Appreciation Day and our staff at Willow River Elementary is blessed with the very best custodians, therefore, it's time to celebrate them.
We are asking each area listed below to get together and come up with a gift or another way to celebrate the custodian that cleans your area. The Sunshine Committee is asking that we have about a $40 limit on whatever it is your area decides to do so that everybody is shown similar appreciation. Feel free to add on any baked goods or other treats to the gift.
Here is the official list of areas/custodial assignments:
- Brent: Briese, Kulzer, Office, Flier, Roering, Kitchen, Strapon
- Matt: Wahlberg, Metz, Plackner, Murray, Buege, Jung, Everson, SAC office, Speech/Intervention/ESL hallway, Benoy, Hanson, Wiesman
- Kenzie: Schloesser, Jacobson, Smith/Condon, Thoreson, Stangl, 4k Wrap-Care rooms, Brackemeyer, Reckinger, Bohl, Kreibich, Dobberstein,
- Thomas: Wagner, Griffith, Anfinson, Flier classroom, Tulkki, Media Center
Please get together and plan how you will celebrate your custodian and have the gift ready next Thursday. In addition, we have a fabulous head custodian who bends over backwards day-in and day-out to make sure everybody has everything they need, that our school is as perfect as a 100+ year old building can be, that our sidewalks are the cleanest sidewalks in the City of Hudson and gives the best walking tours :-) The Sunshine Committee is asking all staff to donate $5 to the envelope in the office that will go towards a gift for Ara. He doesn't necessarily have an area that he cleans outside of the gym and cafeteria but he does SO much for Willow, let's show him appreciation as well. Sunshine will also be getting all of them dinner that evening. Let us know if you have any questions! Thanks for showing our custodial staff appreciation!!
Last Chance for Willow Boosterthon T-Shirt
Please check
this list (twice?) to be sure that you filled out
THIS FORM for your Boosterthon Shirt.
~Your friendly neighborhood parent group!
CKLA Manuals
A reminder that resources are found on the K-5 grade level Table of Contents - which can be found in ClassLink:
CKLA Visits
I wanted to give classroom teachers a heads up that as we approach October, and K-2 have had a few weeks to get their bearings with the new curriculum, I will be stopping in to see CKLA, just for my own learning. Olivia will be checking in as well, to help determine any district-wide support/PD needs.
Frontline 2.0
Certified Staff: informal observations will begin in October
Support Staff Survey
Here's a flyer with the information about support with benefit questions.
Friday, 9-19-25
First Day of Orchestra - Sept. 22nd
Orchestra begins for 4th and 5th graders next week. Jack Young will be our orchestra teacher, and will be here on Mondays and Tuesdays. Here's the orchestra schedule.
Homecoming Week
Playground Gates
Please make sure that all of the playground gates are closed tightly so that students are securely inside.
Conference Sign ups
October conferences are set up in Skyward. You can start blocking off conference times as needed ie co-conferences with specialists or SPED team and/or if you will need an interpreter you can assign those times now. Conference sign ups will open to all families on Friday, September 26.
Thursday, 9-18-25
Gum Day - Birthday Option
- Are you doing GUM DAY as an option for birthday celebrations? Parent Group would happily purchase this gum. We are currently planning to purchase this gum, as it is a popular 4th/5th grade choice, but I know that may not be for everyone.
- If you would like gum for you classroom, for birthday GUM DAY, please fill in this google doc ASAP as Sarah B would like to place the order over the weekend. If you want something other than the gum listed above, please link what you would like ordered.
Family Vacation Communication
Teachers: Now that we aren't using the Family Communication form for longer absences, parents are putting the information into Skyward. Most families are also notifying the teacher, but we have found that some are not - and the Skyward message doesn't alert the teacher. Please remind your families to put it into Skyward AND to let the teacher know, so you are in the loop. Thanks!
Stuff a Truck
FYI - this year it will be Oct. 27-31.
Best Wishes, Hazel!
We wish Hazel the best on her last day tomorrow (Friday, 9/19). Thanks for your excellent work at Willow!
All School Meeting - next Friday
A reminder that we'll have a special schedule for Friday, 9/26 for our first ASM!
Lost and Found
Please walk students by the Lost and Found table in the entryway. It will be donated after next Friday.
Wednesday, 9-17-25
Boosterthon Updates
Just to have on your radar...
- October 23 - quick staff meeting review
- November 13 - 4th/5th Grade Music Program - dress rehearsal will begin at 2:50, with Boosterthon kick off immediately following
Lenovo Pen - Found outside on the sidewalk yesterday after school; it's in the office if it is your's.
Lunch Choice Update tomorrow - Choice 1 tomorrow is cheese ravioli, not lasagna roll up. The lasagna roll up is discontinued. Emily is working on a long term replacement.
Got Candy Land? 4th grade is looking for multiple Candy Land games for a fun end of unit wrap up for our first CKLA unit! If you have a Candy Land game at home or at school that you would be willing to share, please label it with your name and give it to Sarah B or Ellie! Please drop off by next Wednesday (9/24).
Tuesday, 9-16-25
Medication/Health Trainings
Please, let me know if you have any questions. ~ Sara Felland
Fishing Video
IT notified us over the summer they would be sending out a fishing video this month. We don't know exactly when that will happen so stay tuned.
Good Work, Daisy!
Way to get Willow out there :)
Thank you to all the staff who shared stories on the first day of school. The following staff/schools received a special treat bag as a thank you for sharing your first day of school stores: Sarah Tegtmeier at EP Rock Elementary, Hudson Prairie Elementary, Houlton Elementary, Daisy Stengl at Willow River Elementary. Additionally, staff throughout the month of September have been receiving a KIND bar for sharing stories - You're my KIND of person! - as a thank you for sharing.
Monday, 9-15-25
Readers of the month-September
Please get your photo and write up for your September Reader of the Month to Jess by Wednesday, September 24.
Things to send in this week's Peek (thank you!):
Employment Opportunities at Willow River
2 - Special Education Paraprofessionals
Please DO NOT PARK or GET OUT OF YOUR CAR along 4th St. during drop off/pick up. This is designed to be a drive thru process so students can quickly get out of or into their car. This also prevents students from walking into the street if families can't find a place in the line.
Sunshine Updates:
- There are only two days left to secure childcare so you can come to Hudson Tap on Wednesday night for Trivia - 6 p.m.
- Dan Murray and Sarah Flier: Thank you for playing NLF Survivor 2025. You have been eliminated.
Dearest Willow friends,
Thank you for your support and prayers. My family is blessed.
Your kind gift of money will be donated to KTIS...the radio
station that gets me through life's ups and downs.
With love,
Laurel
New Richmond WalMart - Please see Vanessa if you used the building credit card in August at the New Richmond WalMart.
Friday, 9-12-25
Thank You From Jana
I wanted to get a big “Thank You” out to all of the staff. Adelaide delivered your wonderful card and gift yesterday. It meant so much that you all took time to wish me well after my crazy injury. I am recovering on the couch with a new brace and just doing the waiting game for when I can walk on the leg soon. Crutches are not my friend but I’m getting used to it! I miss the kiddos and staff I love my tine at Willow so much! Have a great Friday!! -Jana
Spirit Week (Sept. 29-Oct. 3) - please share with families
- Monday, Sept. 29: Jersey Day/Favorite Team
- Tuesday, Sept. 30: Twin Day
- Wednesday, Oct. 1: Raider Pride
- Thursday, Oct. 2: Favorite Color Day
- Friday, Oct. 3: Hat Day
Sue Out of the Building
We have a family funeral in Seattle on Tuesday, so I will be out of the building Monday-Wednesday. I will be checking in, so feel free to email/text any questions! Paula will be available for coverage if needed.
Looking for photos- Please let the office know when you have activities in your classrooms we can take photos of for our social media. Jess or Vanessa can come up with the iPad to take photos. We are falling behind on our school activity posts. Thanks!
Quick Laurel/John Update - Laurel is heading home from the hospital today with John.
Paper timesheets due today for extra duties.
Teachers, please share with your families:
Hi Families,
Upcoming events to mark your calendar for:
- Playground Event 5:30-7:00 PM--Thursday, Sept. 18
- Subhouse Fundraiser Thursday, Sept. 18 and Friday, Sept. 19.
- Picture Day, Friday Sept. 19
- Community Meeting Sept. 22 6:00 @ HMS (Childcare Link, Question Link, Feedback Survey)
- Family Directory Link: Link available until September 26th.
- Movie Night Friday, Oct. 24th 6:00-9:00
~WRPG
Thursday, 9-11-25
Looking for Paraprofessionals at Willow!
If you know of anyone interested in working in a great work environment, please let them know that we have two sped para positions currently open at Willow. Please share this in your next peek (this week or next). Thanks!
Channel 5 Story on School Closings
SAVE THE DATE -->Trivia, September 17, 6p.m. at Hudson Tap - LET'S GO!
Wednesday, 9-10-25
Grade Level Resumes
We are having trouble with the posters staying on the walls in the atrium - please grab your grade level poster and display it near your classrooms. Thank you!
First Five Website - Edtomorrow
This website has great ideas of quick ideas to add to your day - humor, team building, etc. The Mission at Edtomorrow is to empower educators with practical, restorative tools and daily resources that foster strong connections, build authentic classroom communities, and inspire student engagement. First Five Website
Friday, 9-5-25
Paper Timesheets
I need paper timesheets for extra duties from last week as soon as possible. This week starts a new 2-week timesheet (to be turned in Sept 12).
Quick update on Jana Gaffer
As many of you know the emergency on the playground this week was due to an injury Jana Gaffer sustained. She sent an update that her knee cap was shattered (lots of cracks and breaks) but her ligaments were still intact. She had surgery this afternoon and will be out for at least 8 weeks.
New Emergency Page cards - new paging cards with building phone numbers were put in mailboxes today. These are especially handy if you work in multiple buildings. There was a phone number update from the ones that were handed out last year. If you didn't get one, please stop in the office for a new one.
Tuesday, 9-2-25
Willow River Family Communication Survey - I sent something about this in yesterday's email. I may change this to a ParentSquare form, so stay tuned. Please wait to send the earlier link home.
Door 6
We have changed the door locking protocol for Door 6. It used to be open for drop off/pick up for 4K and sped buses, but Door 6 will REMAIN LOCKED throughout the day. to ensure that we don't have an unsupervised unlocked door, we have made the decision to keep it locked all day. Please make sure you have your fob if you use this door.
Parking on Neighborhood Streets - reminders
- A reminder to be careful when parking on 4th, as we had a neighbor called to say that his car got bumped on Friday (scratches on bumper).
- Please remind parents not to park in front of driveways on 5th Street
Wednesday, 9-3-25
CKLA BOOST Information (from Jenna)
If you are starting to explore the idea of using CKLA's BOOST online program, I want to remind you there is a placement test kids will do before they can access the content and games. I have had quite a few questions about this and didn't know the answers, so today I did some digging and went through the assessment as a student to see it first hand. Here is a visual cheat sheet to know what students will see and experience during their placement test. It does take about 30-45 minutes for a student to complete it. During the assessment they will have 4 assessments: one on word recognition, one on oral reading fluency at the sentence level and two assessments on oral reading fluency and comprehension at the passage level.
During this assessment, they will need to have a chromebook's microphone enabled when they read as the system will record them and use AI technology to determine accuracy and rate. We have learned from G3-5 doing this last year, kids do not need to be seperate from their peers for this recording, it should pick up their voice even in a room of kids, though some teachers found dividers to be helpful. Please reach out to myself or your coach if you have any questions or want support in your classroom when doing the placement test.
Friday, 8/29/25
Reminders from Buildings and Grounds
Just a reminder, teachers and staff cannot bring in personal furniture, lamps, essential oils diffusers etc. Facilities and grounds staff will remove these items from classrooms and leave them in the main office so staff can pick them up in the morning and bring these items back home. If the district has purchased these items and approved them, they can remain in the classroom. If you have any questions, please see Sue.
Volunteer Guidelines
Please make sure anyone that volunteers in your classroom receives a copy of the Volunteer Guidelines. It's set up to be a "brochure" - let the office know if you want copies made, or you can
send the link to your volunteer (and they can read through it on their own).
Please include in next week's peek:
Parent Drop Off/Pick Up
A reminder that the drop off/pick up area is a drive through. Please do not park and get out, so that we can keep traffic flowing. Have your child/ren ready to get out when you pull up to the curb. If you need to assist, please park on a side street. This will keep our traffic moving smoothly, and our students safe. Thank you!
Frontline 2.0 Observation Focus Area (certified staff)
Please "Save and Notify" as you will need to use the same form for your SLO, etc. later.
Will-O-Mania - Earn a point for your Will-O-Mania team (and find out who's on your team) by taking this SUPER FUN quiz by Friday, September 5 at 4:00 p.m.
School Social Worker Update
- SCHOOL SUPPLIES - If you know of any students still needing school supplies, I have supplies and backpacks available throughout the school year for students in need.
- TEMPORARY LIVING SITUATIONS/HOMELESSNESS - If you hear of a student in a shelter, motel, sharing housing with relatives or others (doubling up) due to a financial hardship, please let me know so I can connect with the family to offer support.
- ATTENDANCE - If you have a student that you are noticing attendance concerns, please let me know and I will put that student on my radar when facilitating monthly attendance meetings.
- SCHOOL-BASED DENTAL CARE - Bridging Brighter Smiles is our dental program offered district-wide in our school buildings. I can help get students enrolled in this program. https://enrollment.bbsmiles.org/
- TRANSPORTATION - I can offer free taxi vouchers to students/families in need of getting to school events and necessary appointments. I sometimes have gas gift cards that I can also offer.
- BASIC NEEDS - Referrals to a variety of community resources for food, clothing, counseling, furniture, housing, medical, financial, St Croix County Programs, etc.
- WINTER GEAR - Warm in Winter Program - I can offer free winter gear to students in need. I keep a large stockpile of winter items in my office - Please let me know if you notice a student needing any winter gear items.
- CHILD PROTECTION/MANDATORY REPORTING - Wisconsin law requires all employees of Wisconsin public school districts to report suspected child abuse and neglect. I can assist you with making a report, if needed. St Croix County Intake: 715-246-8260.
Sleepy SmartBoard (thanks, Deanna!)
Background Check Reminder for Field Trip Chaperones & Classroom Volunteers
Parents & volunteers that want to help during field trips or in your classroom with students will need to have a current background check completed by the School District. I will NOT process printed background checks that are turned in until you tell me to; same goes for if a parent submits it online through Skyward you will need to let me know to run it. Teachers should verify if a background check has been approved (don't assume) by going to the District U Drive --> 1 HUMAN RESOURCES --> 5-Approved Background Checks --> VOLUNTEER BACKGROUND CHECK SPREADSHEET. Please check this prior to your field trip or first day the volunteer will be in your classroom. HR cannot process last minute applications so please make sure you allow enough time for processing. If you don't see the person's name in the spreadsheet but they told you they submitted one through Skyward, please let the office know. Skyward submitted background checks are not automatically processed. Please let the office know if you have any questions.
Share Your Story
We are looking for daily pictures with captions and short stories to highlight on our school websites, social media, and community newsletters.
- Interesting or special classroom project
- Annual school-wide events
- Contests, competitions, awards
- Students and staff participating in activities, plays, concerts, clubs
- Business partnership activities
- Volunteer activities that impact learning
- Students with smiles enjoying their day in your school
Transportation Assignments
All students who submitted a Transportation Change/Update Form by noon today (8/22) have been assigned transportation routes. If any changes occur after noon today and on Monday, we will reach out to the school it impacts. Busing information has been available to families in My Ride K-12 App (English Version) | (Spanish Version) and Skyward Family Access (Student Transportation Directions) since August 1. A reminder message is being sent to families this afternoon as well.
You’ll find that your Master Lists in Google Drive have been updated with all changes received to date. In addition, and by popular request, we've also included a new sheet titled "Master List by Advisory/Teacher" to help with the first day of school. :)
Transportation Inquiries – Extension Update
Please update your department contact sheets: All transportation inquiries should be directed to extension 8050 — not 8051.
Bus Badge Distribution
Elementary Schools
Please distribute bus badges & bands during Open House night, or at the very latest, on the first day of school.
Middle & High Schools
Thank you for taking care of badge distribution during your Open House events.
Private Schools
Your badges are coming! Please distribute them when you receive them.
Missing Badges or Routes?
If a student is missing a badge or not showing a route:
- No Badge? No problem, please let us know if a student did not receive a badge, but HAS been assigned a route in Traversa. Please return any extra badges you may have received to the Transportation Department (HMS)
- No Route? Have families complete a 2025–2026 Student Transportation Change or Update Form. Families in the WALK ZONE are not eligible for transportation services.
- Late-registered students will have their badges sent out via interschool mail early next week. These are currently in the Transportation Office awaiting sorting.
Reminder for Late Registering Families
Families registering after August 1st who are eligible for transportation must complete the 2025–2026 Student Transportation Change or Update Form to finalize their transportation request.
With the launch of the new district website, our Student Transportation page can now be found at: https://www.hudsonraiders.org/family-resources/student-transportation
My Ride K-12 Website and App Information
Hudson School District uses My Ride K-12 to help families stay informed about their child’s transportation. You can download the My Ride K-12 app from the Apple or Android app stores, or access it online via myridek12.tylerapp.com. You'll need your child’s 7-digit Traversa ID (available in Skyward) and their last name to link to their account.
Linked below are flyers with more information on how to use My Ride K-12:
The Traversa ID is used by My Ride K-12 and when scanning the bus card. The Traversa ID now matches your child’s school ID for easier access and consistency.
Hudson School District students: My School Bucks ID
St. Patrick’s students: Option C ID
Trinity Academy students: FACTS ID
Thank you for your ongoing support in helping everything run smoothly.
Please reach out if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Hudson School District Transportation Department
715.377.3707, ext. 8050
Friday, 8-22-25
WE READY! - thank you, Sarah - Videographer Extraordinaire!!
Last Chance! While You Were Gone Slides
Don't forget to
add your slide! Thank you to those who already have - it's fun to see what people have been up to this summer!!
NextPath - certified staff
We are using this in place of the one-pager. Talk to your Leadership Team rep to help you navigate, and/or see Melissa's training slides/video below.
Finding Individual Data (no more “one pagers”):
Please share with families:
Staff Absences
Please make sure you can log into Frontline Management (formerly Aesop) to put in for a substitute before you need it! You should click on "Or sign In with ORganization SSO". If this doesn't work, please put in a Help Desk ticket.
Parent AND Staff ParentSquare Account information
If you do not have a staff and parent account in Parent Square, please disregard this email. If you are both a parent and a staff member, please read carefully.
Upcoming Changes to ParentSquare User Accounts
ParentSquare is changing how users with both a parent and staff account are managed.
What to Expect:
If you currently have an account merged across roles or districts (e.g., parent and staff combined), ParentSquare will automatically separate them into individual accounts. Once unmerged, users will remain signed in to their highest permission account (e.g. staff) and can use the account switcher to add another account and sign into their other account(s), like a parent account.
If your Parent Square Staff and Parent account use your @hudsonraiders email, you will simply see an account chooser screen in order to choose which account you'd like to log in to
You won't lose any messages and all notifications will remain as they were in your merged account.
This change will occur in the next couple of days (likely complete by July 30)
ParentSquare will provide in-app guidance as these changes roll out to help you understand and adapt to the new experience and there is a video and support articles linked below. Finally, if you need additional support, please submit a help desk ticket or call our office.
Help Desk Ticket Link
IT Office: 715-377-3709
Video link: https://vimeo.com/1102310068 [2 minute video overview of account switching in ParentSquare]
Support Articles:
Switch Accounts in ParentSquare
How to Switch Between User Accounts
What to Expect After Your Accounts Are Unmerged
Steph's Contact Information
Here is my contact info:
715/338-2792
My SLP business gmail is
If you ever hear of anyone looking for a reading tutor for younger kids, articulation therapy, or myofunctional therapy, I wouldn’t mind a referral.
Lexile Ranges
Teachers - you are able to find your student's Lexile Number in the AimsWeb and FastBridge reports. Grace printed AimsWeb reports for K-3 that had the Lexile, and Amy B. figured out how to find them for 4th and 5th in FastBridge: Once you are logged into Fastbridge go to reporting- View other reports- Click screening to intervention-reading and then view report.
Resources:
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