Photo by Wanda Hanson
Michael Mangan, director of Educational Success and Innovation, and Kelsey Harvey, Minnesota Virtual Academy (MNVA) teacher, addressed the Houston School Board at their regular meeting November 6 about the possibility of offering course equivalencies at both MNVA and onsite at Houston.
Course equivalencies would offer alternative classes that would satisfy graduation requirements. Examples given were tying construction to math (geometry) credits, interior design to art credits, personal finance to math credits, etc. In order to teach such a class, teachers would need to get credentials in the class that is not part of their previous training. These credentials could be obtained by taking the state tests, MTLE (Minnesota Teacher License Examinations).
A student would be able to choose whether they were taking an offered construction/math course equivalency as an elective or a math class and receive credits in either of the options. Such classes would provide flexibility for the school and support students with different learning styles.
Mangan pointed out that some teachers are enthusiastic about an area that they are not licensed in. He would be gauging teacher interest as well as surveying parents and students about the concept. If the interest is there, he’s thinking of piloting one to three such courses in 2026-2027.
MNVA Mascot
Krista Bumgardner and members of the Houston Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Leadership Team visited virtually to present information about the MNVA mascot. Currently, an owl is the mascot of the school. Recently the team learned that the owl is culturally sensitive. In some Ojibwe tribes, an owl is seen as a messenger of death. This negative connotation makes some families uncomfortable to have their child receive an award with an owl pictured on it.
A recent MNVA survey resulted in a majority supporting changing the mascot to welcome all learners. Some ideas offered were to become Hurricanes to show unity with the onsite school. The team asked the school board for their opinions.
Each member seemed to have a different opinion. Some suggested using a different color with the hurricane such as purple for MNVA, others mentioned alternative storms such as typhoons or cyclones. Advocating for using the Hurricane mascot, Lisa Schultz commented, “We really are all one.”
The MNVA team will meet again regarding a mascot choice after learning that the board completely supports changing the mascot.
Recognitions
Four Hurricane Heroes were recognized in November. High School senior Chase Johnson was recognized for always being willing to do whatever was needed at the school from concession stand to carrying in heavy loads for staff.
Tony Schultz was commended for his help at sporting events as an announcer or running the scoreboards.
Elementary staff members Jackie McCormick and Mary Muller were awarded Hurricane Hero status for their ongoing work at the elementary and especially for their help in a recent difficult situation.
Summit Students of the Month were also recognized. Zoe Wendell was September’s Student of the Month for her positive attitude, excellent attendance and continued progress in her classes. October’s Student of the Month, Collin Weiling, was chosen for his fun-loving personality, his work ethic and attendance.
Other Business
High School Principal John Cassellius clarified the section of the handbook dealing with tardiness. Students who are late for class more than three times a given quarter without a valid excuse will receive a discipline referral. Five unexcused tarries will result in a conference with the principal. Five more will result in a conference with the principal, a call home and a lunch detention. Students have already received this information.
The possibility of starting school before Labor Day for the next two years was discussed. The staff was polled with 65% in favor of the early start. Parents were 50/50 on the idea. It was noted that if there was an early start, there would need to be specific guidance regarding absences for the State Fair. One idea suggested was to keep the start after Labor Day and get rid of spring break which would then still allow school to end at the same time.
The possibility of the early start would only be available for the next two years. If the school wanted to continue with the early start, further action would need to be taken. The calendar committee will discuss it further before making their recommendations.
The school board approved a resolution supporting an application for a grant from MSHSL Foundation to offset student activity fees for students in need of help.
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