www.farmington.k12.mn.us APRIL 19, 2013

FARMINGTON AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Page 2Farmington High School hosts one of 14 Metro Area College Fairs

North Trail Principal Named a Horace Mann/Lincoln Fellow

4-H Youth Teaching Youth an Effective Tool

Page 3Froehling Selected for Power of Influence Award

School Board updates

Page 4Riverview Students Grows Large Cabbage, wins $1000

Meadowview’s Mighty Musical: Joust!

Dodge Students Show School Pride with Mural Project

Jump Rope for Heart at Farmington Elementary

Page 5North Trail Wax Museum Brings History to Life

Innovation and Inventions on the Menu at Boeckman

Page 6Facility Upgrades, Easements and Energy Savings

Community Education Aligns Strategic Plan with District Direction

Page 7Summer Programs for Youth in Abundance in Farmington

Upcoming Events Calendar

Page 8iPads and Instructional Technology in the Classroom

Farmington High School to Join South Suburban Conference

School ReporterSchool ReporterINSIDE:

ABOUT:Farmington School Reporter is a publication of Farmington Independent School District 192. Direct comments or questions to Jim Skelly at 651-463-5079 or jskelly@farmington.k12.mn.us.

This publication was produced in partnership with SunThisweek Newspapers with support from area businesses. This arrangement allows the district to provide this publication for less than 4 cents per household.

School BoardTera Lee, ChairMelissa Sauser, Vice ChairJulie Singewald, ClerkBrian Treakle, TreasurerLaura Beem, DirectorJake Cordes, Director

Superintendent of SchoolsJay Haugen

District Websitewww.farmington.k12.mn.us

Innovation Zone Designation Gets Green Light to Move Ahead

Tech Leader Gains Prestigious Apple Distinguished Educator Status

Farmington/Spring Lake Park

INNOVATION ZONE

FOCUS AREAS

Wee Tigers Preschool Program Receives Top Rating

An application to allow the Farm-ington and Spring Lake Park schools to work cooperatively in an Innovation Zone Pilot Project has received an initial designation from the Minnesota Department of Education, one of two such projects to gain approval in the State of Minnesota.

The Innovation Zone designation was enacted by the Minnesota Legisla-ture in 2012 to allow groups of two or more districts to work collaboratively to improve student and school outcomes. The program seeks to support innova-tive education programs and activities and the sharing of district resources with the idea that lessons learned can assist students across Minnesota.

The Innovation Zone designation is not a grant and does not come with any additional funding, but does allow the districts flexibility from some mandates and exemptions in order to think and

act creatively in customizing learning and meeting the unique needs of stu-dents. A detailed implementation plan along with evaluation and reporting systems are under development. The designation will begin with the upcom-ing school year and be in place for the next five years.

Although Farmington and Spring Lake Park are separated by 40 miles, the strategic intent of the districts is closely aligned. In addition to being the two largest metro districts to imple-ment full integration of iPads for all students, both organizations prioritize customized learning and meeting the unique needs of every student.

Farmington and Spring Lake Park have worked cooperatively on numer-ous initiatives over the last two years, a factor that provides a strong foundation for success for the Innovation Zone effort.

It’s a group known as “ambassadors of innova-tion” in education, and a technology leader in Farmington Area Pub-lic Schools has recently gained membership. Charles Duarte, head of Instructional Tech-nology for Farmington Area Public Schools, was named an Apple Distin-guished Educator for the class of 2013, a distinction awarded to 75 educators this year and a total of 2000 globally since 1994.

In alignment with the district strategic plan, Duarte has been a key leader in the deployment of personal learning devices such as the iPad along with the software systems and apps that students and teachers use as part of their educational day. Throughout the current school year use of this technology has grown from an early adopter format with iPads in use at all buildings, to a system with all students hav-ing access to iPads as part of their learning

day. At 6,700 students, Farmington is the larg-est district in the State of Minnesota to have a full iPad 1:1 program in place.

Apple Distinguished Educators (ADEs) are part of a global commu-nity of education leaders recognized for bringing innovative learning in and out of the classroom. Duarte will be part of this network, a feature which will bring benefits to Farmington students and teachers.

The Apple Distinguished Educator (ADE) Program began in 1994, when Apple recognized K-12 and higher education pioneers who are using a variety of Apple products to transform teaching and learning in powerful ways. Today it has grown into a worldwide community of over 2,000 vision-ary educators and innovative leaders who are leveraging technology for learning both in and out of the classroom.

Shared Resources Examine processes and determine

efficiencies in curriculum improvement, professional development, personnel, data analysis and test analysis.

Time-Bound Learning Develop alternatives to “traditional

schooling” that divides learning into age/grade levels and structure which adequate-ly recognizes that students learn at differ-ent paces.

Personalized Student Engagement Create a system of continuous progress

where students move at an appropriate

pace continually increasing the depth and rigor of their learning.

Personalized Interactions Using powerful learning devices like the

iPad that eliminate boundaries of time and space, students will create personal learn-ing networks while working independently and in collaboration with inspiring, well-trained professional teachers.

Budget Process Finance administrators will develop rev-

enue and expenditure budgets and report-ing standards for specific programs.

Farmington Area Public Schools has something to be excited about for the early learners in the community. Community Education’s Wee Tigers Preschool program has been awarded the four-star rating – the highest rating available - through the state of Minnesota’s Parent Aware program.

Wee Tigers Preschool is the first preschool in Farmington to be recognized with this accreditation. The rating is in effect for all five locations where Wee Tigers is offered.

The Parent Aware program, offered through the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Office of Early Learning uses a 1-4 star rating system to assist parents searching for high quality early learning and kindergarten readiness programs. It measures the best practices identified by research that help children succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Best practices include ensuring the preschool curriculum is aligned with the Minnesota Early Learning Indicators of Progress, approved assessment tools and specific professional development requirements in curriculum and assessment for the program’s licensed teachers.

Wee Tigers Preschool continues to take registrations for the upcoming school year. For more information please call 651-460-3200 or visit www.farmingtonCE.com.

The Innovation Zone application included an illustrated video produced at no-cost to the district by national award-winning illustrator, documentary f ilm-maker and information designer Anthony Weeks. Visit the www.farmington.k12.mn.us web site or search A New Design for Education on YouTube to view.

Page 2 | April 19, 2013 SCHOOL REPORTER | Farmington Area Public Schools

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ALL ABOUT ABE: North Trail Principal Selected for Lincoln Fellowship

North Trail Elementary Principal Dr. Steven Geis, Principal at North Trail Elementary, will take part in the Horace Mann-Abraham Lincoln Fellowship Pro-gram, an intensive program geared to in-crease knowledge and understanding of the nation’s 16th President. Dr. Geis will join a select group of 50 teachers and school ad-ministrators from across the nation for the week long study held during the summer in Lincoln’s hometown of Springfield, Illinois.

The Fellowship program offers leaders in education with a behind-the-scenes look at numerous landmarks and access to lec-tures and information regarding the life of President Lincoln including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Mu-seum (ALPLM). The fellowship includes lectures by library staff and Lincoln experts

who provide insight on Lincoln and the Civil War. The five-day event includes special guided tours at Lincoln’s Tomb, Lincoln’s Home and the village of New Salem where Lincoln lived as a young man.

The Fellowship features two five-day programs, one in June and one in July, and includes round-trip transportation, lodging, and most meals, all provided by Horace Mann.

Horace Mann is the largest national multiline insurance company focusing on educators’ financial needs. Local Agent Scott Wright nominated Geis for the honor stating , “Dr. Geis is in for an experi-ence he’ll remember for a lifetime.” The award was presented at a staff meeting in the North Trail Media Center.

Scott Wright from Horace Mann presents the honor to Dr. Steven Geis.

Students Consider Post Secondary Options at Regional College Fair

From MIAC to MNSCU to Manitoba, a college fair held at Farmington High School in March presented students with a wide variety of post-secondary options.

The free event, coordinated by the Min-nesota Association for College Admission Counseling and partnering organizations, allowed students and parents the chance to talk with admissions representatives directly and get their questions answered in an infor-mal “expo style” format. Over 110 colleges, universities, military and other post-second-ary organizations were in attendance.

The impressive list of schools featured institutions from all shapes and sizes and locations far and closer to Farmington.

Students were able to learn about options and compare institutions such as the Univer-sity of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, University of Missouri, Nebraska, Wyoming and a wide variety of MnSCU options such as St. Cloud State University, Winona State and others. Private schools such as Gustavus Adolphus College, Hamline, St. Thomas and many others were also on hand. Schools from North Dakota, South Dakota and even Canada were busy answering questions from numerous students.

Farmington High School was one of 14 metro area high schools selected to host a re-gional college fair. Preliminary plans call for Farmington to host the event again next year.

Megan Hipsher, Sarah Garcia, Jerry Pfau, and Barbara Walker are Counselors at Farmington High School and worked to make the fair a success. Counselor Chelsey Newman was not available for the photo. Garcia coordinates College and Career counseling services and played an important organizational role in the event.

FHS Students Take the Lead with 4-H Youth Teaching Youth

Learning about making the right deci-sions about alcohol and tobacco for fourth-grade students at Akin Road Elementary is a subject led through a unique source, students from Farmington High School. Akin Road - along with all other district elementary schools – participates in the 4-H Youth Teaching Youth program, an effort to pro-mote positive development for youth. A total of 94 student volunteers in grades 9-12 are involved in the program.

The 4-H Youth Teaching Youth concept delivers on the intended benefits for both the student and the student leaders. Both parties involved have been shown to reap the benefits of learning, friendship, and social

growth. Studies have shown students are more apt to talk with peers about impor-tant issues than they are with adults and the smaller age disparity helps teen teach-ers present material in terms that youth are more likely to understand. In turn, teen teachers gain an opportunity to develop skills and build capacity contributing to their own drug-free lifestyle.

The 4-H Youth Teaching Youth programs are coordinated through the University of Minnesota Extension located in Farming-ton. Funding for the programs is supported through business donations and local Parent-Teacher-Partnerships at each of the schools where it is offered.

SCHOOL REPORTER | Farmington Area Public Schools April 19, 2013 | Page 3

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SCHOOL BOARD:DISCUSSIONS AND DECISIONS DECIDE FORMAT FOR SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

Have you noticed that some school board meetings contain many questions and lengthy discussions and yet decisions seem to be made rather routinely at others? The format and agenda of the meeting may have a lot to do with it.

The School Board hold two types of meetings – regular meetings and work sessions – that offer different formats and purposes for governance of district affairs. Regular Meetings offer a more traditional, formal feel and contain agenda items that require formal board approval. Work sessions differ in format to allow for

presentations and discussion in a more informal setting. These sessions are held following the first board meeting of every month.

Farmington Board of Education Meetings are held the second and fourth Mondays of every month in the Little Theatre at Boeckman Middle School , 800 Denmark Avenue. Meetings are shown live on Cable Channel 10 in Farmington and then later replayed on Channel 10 in Farmington, Channel 12 in Lakeville and available by streaming video at the www.farmington.k12.mn.us web site.

Teacher/Coach Mark Froehling Selected for Minnesota’s Power of Influence Award

Farmington High School football teacher/coach Mark Froehling has been selected as the recipient of Minnesota’s 2012 Power of Influence Award by the Minnesota Football Coaches Association (MFCA).

The Power of Influence Award is pre-sented annually to one coach from each state whose influence is reflected in his mentoring and role modeling, community service and the lives he has touched and changed. In addition to an overall win-loss record of 118-87, including a 78-52 run at Farmington, Froehling is a chemistry teacher at Farming-ton High School.

Froehling will now join other state Power of Influence Award winners as a candidate for the national award sponsored by the American Football Coaches Association.

Members of the Farmington Area Public Schools Board of Education include Laura Beem, Brian Treakle, Melissa Sauser, Tera Lee, Julie Singewald and Jake Cordes.

Mark Froehling

Page 4 | April 19, 2013 SCHOOL REPORTER | Farmington Area Public Schools

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Large Cabbage Nets Riverview Third Grader $1000 Prize

Cabbage has become much more than sauerkraut and cole slaw for Riverview Elementary student Madelyn Price. Her massive 22 pound entry in the 2012 Bonnie Plants Third Grade Cabbage Program took the top prize in Minnesota. A total of 8,770 students from 408 schools in Minnesota participated in the program.

The Bonnie Plants Third Grade Cab-bage Program matches cabbage plants with students in an effort to grow their interest in vegetable gardening along with teaching life lessons in nurture, nature, responsibility and building a sense of responsibility. The pro-gram is provided free of charge to Riverview and schools across the state and nation by

Bonnie Plants, a leading grower and supplier for plants and vegetables to locations such as Home Depot, Walmart and other retailers nationwide.

Madelyn provided some tips at the assembly to next year’s student growers, including the secret ingredient she used that she credited with getting the vegetable to grow to such a size - horse manure. She also commented on the quality time she was able to spend with family in her effort to care for the cabbage.

She received her award in a special school assembly held on Tuesday, March 12. Kim Grengs is the Principal at Riverview Elementary.

Left-Right – Riverview Principal Kim Grengs, Mark Price (father), Linda Price and Tom Price (grandparents), Corey Arment and Dany Kyle (Bonnie Plants), Madelyn Price, Emily Price (sister) and Jenny Price (mother).

JOUST: Meadowview’s Mighty Medieval Musical Puts Twist on Legendary Tale

Imagine a world where all weapons were replaced by musical instruments. A February 28 performance for students at Meadowview Elementary of Joust: A Mighty Medieval Musical took just this type of twist. The 50 member cast put on the high energy show for students during the day, followed by an evening community performance.

The story of Joust goes back in time to medieval days and features the legend of King Arthur (Ellie Seyfert) and his Knights with characters such as Lord Dance-a lot, Sir Ender, Sir Vival, Lady Bug, Lady Luck, Lady Singalot, Merlin and all the dresses, armor and jesters. When Arthur has to pull the sword out of the stone he must choose between two options: the sword and a sound-making Boomwhacker! The Knight are worried that they won’t have swords when the French invade only to find the visitors armed with recorders and a musical approach. Together they avoid conflict and make peace by making beautiful music together.

The 30 minute performance was coordinated by Jacalyn Eisenzimmer and Erica Winters with significant parent and custodial staff support. Each year students in the fourth and fifth grades at Meadowview have had the opportunity to participate in a musical in a program coordinated through Farmington Community Education.

Farmington Elementary Students Raise Over $5,000 in Jump Rope for Heart

Farmington Elementary students and families collected pledges totaling $5027 and raised awareness for prevent-ing heart disease as part of the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart program.

The program – an 18 year tradition at Farmington Elementary – is celebrated by a special jump roping activ-ity led by Physical Education Teacher Jon Ostgaard. The FES community has been a loyal partner with Jump Rope with Heart. Look to the banners on display

in the FES gymnasium as one indication of their ongoing support of the program.

Jump Rope For Heart promotes physical education and provides children with knowledge of heart disease and stroke while raising funds for cardiovascular disease research, stroke research, and health education. Over $700 million has been raised nationwide since the program began in 1978. Today 28,000 schools across the nation in all 50

states participate.

Art Project Puts Dodge Students Work In High Profile Display

Eighth-grade students at Dodge Middle School worked together to create a one-of-a-kind mural that has brightened up the cafeteria at the school throughout the year.

Each of the 90 students involved with the project was asked to come up with a design that incorporated ¼ of a circle, with full knowledge that their work would become part of the larger piece of work. They reviewed and selected color schemes – one on the inside of their circle, and one color scheme on the outside/background. Student volunteers then arranged the pieces into the

larger mural, discussing how to make it look unified. A highlight of the project was the decision to form the letters “DMS” in the center of the mural to show school spirit, a decision that served as a source of pride for those involved with the project.

Students began the lesson by learning about Sonia and Robert Delaunay, who were artists that used the motif of the circle in many of their works of art.

DMS Art Teacher Mandy VanSomeran coordinated the project.

SCHOOL REPORTER | Farmington Area Public Schools April 19, 2013 | Page 5

NORTH TRAIL: Wax Museum Brings History to Life

Just push the button and a fourth-grade student will show what they know about a historical figure. That’s the easy and fun part for those who attended a “Wax Museum” at North Trail Elementary held Friday, March 15.

Fourth-grade students researched a person from history, created a report and brought that figure to life in full costume at the event. Family and friends were able to rotate through classrooms and learn

about figures from a wide range of history such as President George Washington to Whitney Houston. Even Elvis was in the house. The photo below depicts the life of famous scientist and adventurer Jacques Cousteau.

Fourth grade teachers at North Trail include Laura Huspek, Diana Kell, Vicki Suker, Kelly Galarneau. Elizabeth Dahling-Thompson teaches a combined classroom of fourth and fifth grade students.

Boeckman Students Learn at Lunch, Inventor Provides Inspiration

An author visit at Boeckman Middle School provided the unique opportunity to blend in some learning with lunch.

Following the title of his recent book “Good News –I Failed, A Story of Inventing in Minnesota”, author/inventor Doug Cornelius provided a fast-paced and interactive display of inventions and how they came to become part of society to a large and engaged lunch crowd in the BMS Media Center.

Did you know that Minnesota is home to some of the greatest inventions of the 20th century? Items such as the heart pacemaker, post-it notes, rollerblades, and many, many

others all originated in this state. The book explains 80 such inventions and he makes visits like these in an effort to inspire the next generation of Minnesota inventors.

“We need to encourage our kids to be thinking about ideas and not to be frustrated by failure along the way,” commented Cornelius. This concept is firmly aligned with the recently adopted Strategic Plan for Farmington Area Public Schools which calls for the district to become a “center of inspiration” for student learning.

The Lunch with an Author program was organized by Barbara Theirl, Media Center Specialist.

Page 6 | April 19, 2013 SCHOOL REPORTER | Farmington Area Public Schools

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Farmington Area Community Education Develops Strategic Plan to Complement the District Strategic Plan

Farmington Community Education worked with Barb Duffrin, Director of Educational Programs, to draft a strategic plan that will guide Community Education programs over the next five years. The result of that work is a plan and direction that complements the overall direction of the district.

An integral part of the planning was creating a mission statement for the department.

The mission of Farmington Area Community Education, the essential link between the community, schools, and home is to inspire each individual to grow and reach their highest potential throughout their lifespan by:

• Offering opportunities to spark passion, encourage exploration and cultivate collaboration through shared experiences.

• Preparing and nurturing learners for academic and life success in an ever-changing world.

• Progressively and dynamically reaching out to our diverse community.

• Establishing meaningful, lasting and productive relationships between and within schools and the community.

The process included setting objectives and identifying tactics to reach those objectives. The full Community Education Strategic Plan can be found online at farmingtonCE.com

Committees have been created to work on the tactics and residents can watch for more communications from Community Education in the coming months. Residents are encouraged to visit the website, participate in Community Education activities and share thoughts and suggestions for Community Education with any staff member.

More Information: www.farmingtonCE.com

FACILITIES AND PROPERTY: Elementary Projects Advancing, Angus Easements, Energy Savings Realized

While the educational focus of Farm-ington Area Public Schools is on custom-izing education for students, the facilities and resources necessary to support that mission aspire to work as efficiently as possible to maximize resources for learn-ing.

Key decisions made by the Board of Education in early 2013 for pending elementary construction projects and ease-ments on district property along with en-ergy savings results from district programs

are included in this report.

Farmington Elementary Farmington Elementary will experi-

ence significant construction over the upcoming year. Projects to expand Kin-dergarten classrooms, update cafeteria/kitchen areas, and upgrade the loading dock area for safety are included along with mechanical system replacements, roof replacements, asbestos mitigation and addressing deterioration issues. Con-struction will be phased and is expected

to begin near the end of the school year and continue in 2014. Funding sources identified include reallocated 2005 Bond Referendum proceeds and Alternative Facilities Health and Safety Bonds. Six qualified firms bid on the projects and the School Board awarded the majority of the project to Jorgenson Construction at a total cost of $6,034,000, an amount that is under the original project esti-mate. The school will be communicat-ing directly with parents regarding the construction project and plans that will be necessary to facilitate timely comple-tion of the work.

Akin Road ElementaryAkin Road Elementary will also ex-

perience projects to improve mechanical systems improvements along with some remodeling over the summer of 2013. Along with heating, ventilation and air conditioning replacements, the School Board approved projects to upgrade the Media Center. Additional projects to address student locker replacement, entry improvements, staff restrooms, and of-fice remodeling were not pursued at this time. Funding sources identified include reallocated 2005 Bond Referendum pro-ceeds and Alternative Facilities Health and Safety Bonds.

Angus Property EasementsThe school board approved a utility

line easement on the southerly portion of district-owned land located in Castle Rock Township commonly known as the Angus Property. The easement will

cover use of six acres for the CAPX2020 project and net the district a $50,000 payment. The district has been con-sulting with Dakota County, Southern Dakota County Sportsmen’s Club and partnering organizations regarding ad-ditional options for conservation ease-ments on other portions of this property. The School Board is expected to consider options for these easements at upcoming meetings.

SEE the $709,000 in Savings Little changes over time in energy

consumption can lead to big savings. Farmington Area Public Schools recently passed the $709,000 mark in reduced energy consumption and avoided costs since joining the Schools for Energy Efficiency (SEE) program in 2008. Not only has energy use been reduced by 20% district-wide, now nearly half of all waste is recycled. Students and staff in district facilities play a key role in realizing these savings, a factor which allows the district to maximize resources available for edu-cational programs.

Modifications to the entry area and loading dock area are included in the list of projects that will be pursued at Farmington Elementary starting this summer.

SCHOOL REPORTER | Farmington Area Public Schools April 19, 2013 | Page 7

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SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMSFarmington Community Education Summer Programs Keep Kids Active and Parents Happy

Farmington Community Education is heating things up for the summer with a wide variety of programming for all ages. Do you call them the “lazy days” of summer? Then, make them the kid-friendly and parent support days of summer! The staff at Farmington Community Education has planned many fun and exciting classes, activities and programs to keep kids busy and parents happy.

Pick or choose a class or schedule that is right for you and your child. Many parents utilize these programs for the days or weeks that a babysitter or grandparent may not be available, or when the neighbor kids are all attending the same class or camp. Make your plans now, as summer will soon be here!

For more information or to register visit www.farmingtonCE.com or call 651-460-3200.

Farmington Community Education Summer Youth Programs

Here is a quick listing of opportunities to enjoy the summer with Farmington Community Education.

• Drop In and Play Time-Wednesday

and Friday mornings for PreK-5.

• ECFE Summer Camps-Science,

Building, Nature and Art- 4

mornings in June or July for PreK-5.

• Gymnastics and Swim Lessons-

Preschool and up.

• Kinder Ready Camp- for children

entering Kindergarten in the fall

of 2013.

• Kid Connection- Field Trips and

Day Care for K-5th grade.

• Open Swim at DMS Pool-

June 10-August 9, Mon-Fri, 1-3 pm,

Rain or Shine!

• Stepping Stones- New Summer child

care program for 3, 4, and 5 year olds,

June 13-Aug 23.

• Basketball Girls and Boys Camps

for K-9th grade.

• Soccer Camps for students grade

K-8th grade.

• Swimming Camp for swimmers

grade 6-12.

• Tennis Camp for students grade 7-12.

• Kung Fu for ages 5-12 and Fencing

for ages 6 and up.

• Babysitter’s Training for ages 11-15.

• Theatre and acting for ages 7-17.

• Art, Sewing, Math, Rocketry, Bugs,

Science, Self Defense and Cheer

classes!

• Camp Invention for students

Grades 1-6.

• Piano, Guitar, Violin, Brass and

Percussion lessons.

Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Events

Parental and community support of students and schools plays an essential role in the ultimate success of students and the district. The spring months provide multiple opportunities to at-tend arts, athletic and other activities at school. The events are free of charge and offer a great way to show your support.

Farmington Elementary 5th Grade Band Concert

Monday, April 29 – 7 p.m.

Meadowview Elementary Fifth Grade Band Concert

Monday, April 29 – 7 p.m.

Akin Road Elementary Fifth Grade Band Concert

Tuesday, April 30 – 7 p.m.

North Trail 5th Grade Band Concert

Thursday, May 2 – 6:30 p.m.

Riverview 5th Grade Band Concert

Thursday, May 2 – 6:30 p.m.

Middle School Choir Concert

Monday, May 20 – 6:30 p.m.

Boeckman Middle School Auditorium

Middle School Band Concerts

Boeckman: Tuesday, May 7 – 6:30/8 p.m.

Dodge: Thursday, May 9 – 6:30/8 p.m.

Boeckman Middle School Auditorium

Farmington High School Jazz Concert

Tuesday, May 14 – 8 p.m., Recital Hall,

Farmington High School

Farmington High School Choir Concert

Thursday, May 30 – 6 p.m./7:30 p.m.

Farmington High School Recital Hall

Farmington District Art Show

Tuesday, May 146:00pm

Farmington High School

Page 8 | April 19, 2013 SCHOOL REPORTER | Farmington Area Public Schools

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iPADS IN THE CLASSROOM

Farmington High School chemistry teachers Mark Froehling and Lew Miskowicz have “flipped” their classrooms – providing lecture materials to view away from the classroom – and focusing on helping students work on deepening their understanding in the classroom. With iPads, the teachers can be assured that all students have access to the materials on an equal basis. The devices allow flexibility for students to master content and take the appropriate tests so they can advance on with their learning as necessary.

Riverview Fourth Grade Teacher Jennifer Needham turned to the no-cost resources of iTunesU to f ind a lesson plan for a three-week unit on poetry. In addition to instruction and support from Needham, students are able to bring their work to a new level of sharing and collaboration using iPads and the associated apps to share their work with the class for peer review and comment. Students worked at a comfortable pace and/or were allowed to accelerate their learning using the multi-media capabilities and additional content available on the iPads. Needham gained time necessary to work with students individually on their literacy skills to ensure subject mastery for all students.

Middle School Science is making the transition to interactive iBooks for learning materials. Sci-ence teachers Lynda Ihlan and Katie Bellmont transformed their paper based project packets into engaging and informative iBooks for student use on the iPads. To date, they have authored seven iBooks for classroom use, bringing color and multi-media elements into their lesson plans on human anatomy. Katie Bellmont is pictured in class assisting students.

Classrooms Creating Customized Learning EnvironmentsOver the months of February and

March, students in grades 4-12 and their families have assisted in the process to equip all Farmington students with an iPad,

a move which is already showing signs of customized learning environments being created in classrooms across the district.

Introductory distribution and family

Farmington High School to Join South Suburban Conference in 2014

Farmington High School’s athletics and activity programs will move to the South Suburban Conference starting in the fall of 2014, joining schools more similar in student population and location than existed in the current Missota Conference. Farmington’s application to the South Suburban was approved on a unanimous 10-0 vote by conference representatives and affirmed on a unanimous vote by the School Board on January 28.

Location and travel times for students along with current and future student enrollment are key factors in the decision to seek membership in the South Suburban. Enrollment at Farmington High School is currently 1,883 and projected to grow to over 2,200 students, a similar size to other South Suburban schools.

Following Farmington’s acceptance in the

South Suburban, the conference also accept-ed Shakopee High School as a new member and bid farewell to Bloomington Jefferson and Bloomington Kennedy who are leaving to join the new Metro West Conference.

In addition to being aligned with schools more similar in size, another at-tractive aspect of the confer-ence change is the reduction in travel distance between member schools. The average travel distance for Farming-ton in the current Missota

Conference is 27.86 miles while the average in the South Suburban is 12.86 miles.

There still will be one more year of com-petition in the Missota Conference prior to the new conference alignment taking place in the fall of 2014.

More Information on Tiger athletics: www.farmington.k12.mn.us/athletics

engagement nights and a series of follow-up parent meetings have been important sessions to ensure a strong start with a new program. Keep in mind that Farmington’s transition from an “early adopter” type iPad program to a full 1:1 deployment happened over the course of one school year and was completed just weeks ago.

Farmington’s teaching staff are incorporating iPads and the appropriate

software systems and apps in classrooms throughout the district to maximize their effectiveness. The accompanying photographs are examples of some of the ways teachers are using iPads and technology to customize the learning environment in the classroom.

For more information look for the iPad tab in the left navigation at www.farmington.k12.mn.us.