Scholars of Distinction
Each year, the Minnesota Department of Education recognizes students across the state for their outstanding academic achievement with Scholars of Distinction awards. This year, 34 amazing juniors and seniors were honored for their work in the areas of Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, Leadership and Theater Arts. To earn recognition, a student must complete required work in Minnesota’s Academic Standards, demonstrate mastery of complex subject matter and apply their knowledge and skills on challenging projects. Check out the news release for more info.
Bullying Prevention
“Students can't learn if they don't feel supported and safe. Bullying creates an unsafe learning environment that can have a lasting negative impact on a child. Our schools need to be places that cultivate a positive environment where students can thrive." -- Commissioner Brenda Cassellius. Access the department's bullying prevention resources for schools and families. The Governor's Bullying Task Force has been hosting Listening Sessions around the state.
2012 SkillsUSA Competition!
SkillsUSA is a partnership of high school and college students,teachers/advisors, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled work force. During this year's State Leadership and Skills Conference, Minnesota students captured 437 gold, silver and bronze medals! Twenty-seven colleges and 700 college students competed in 60 events earning a total of 213 medals. Thirty-four high schools and 300 high school students competed in 57 events, earning a total of 224 medals. Read more.
Turning a Poetic Phrase
During their 4 week poetry study, fifth-grade students at Orono Intermediate School are studying the work of mentor poets. By noting each poet's techniques and process, the students learn about the tools and strategies poets employ, including: freewriting to gather ideas, collecting poetic words and phrases and emulating a structure of a mentor text. Students also learn how to effectively use white space and are exposed to the many different forms of poetry. As students read, write, and talk poetry, they fill their notebooks to the brim -- with words meant to inspire!
Multiple Measures Rating Data Released
MDE has released school performance data under the new accountability system authorized by Minnesota’s No Child Left Behind waiver. Learn more about your school’s performance and search for Multiple Measurement Rating data on our Data for Parents and Educators page. View the state Multiple Measurement files on our Data Reports and Analytics page, or learn more about the waiver here.
