December 4, 2020 - Issue #62 |
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Tree of Kindness Overflows |
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The Pioneer Music Department has created the "Kindness Tree". Students who complete an act of kindness have the opportunity to choose a kindness ornament, write their name on one side, and their act of kindness on the other. Each ornament represents an act of kindness. Ms. Mennis and Mr. Mathwig launched this project last Monday, November 23, and already 250+ ornaments adorn the tree, each representing an act of kindness one of the Pioneer kids has completed. We have some pretty amazing kids at Pioneer!
This project is inspired by Landon's Light, a foundation that was established last year which focuses on the legacy of a little boy Ms. Mennis used to nanny. Sadly, Landon passed away from brain cancer last year. Landon's Light is about being kind & compassionate towards others, spreading the light of kindness to all. If you would like to read more about Landon's story, here is the link to the foundation website.
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The Annual Toy Drive is a Go! |
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The District 484 Elves have been working especially hard this year to ensure the annual Toy Drive and Gift/Clothing Distribution will still take place---with all the proper precautions. This event provides gifts, clothing, and essentials for families needing extra support this time of year. The elves have a plan and we invite the community to participate if you feel compelled!
If you would like to donate to the Toy Drive you are welcome to purchase a gift (new only please at this time) for any age child (our toy distribution is for kiddos 0-17) and bring it to the Pioneer entrance or Mr. Holbrook's newly decorated drop-off window in the parent drop-off line! Don't know what to buy but want to help out? You can always donate money and the elves will shop for you. If you prefer the monetary donation and want to write a check, you may write it to 'Pioneer Student Council' and your Toy Drive donation will be recognized at the next school board meeting.
Our Toy and Gift Distribution will be on December 17 and it will be "drive-thru style". We have been working hard to come up with a plan to be able help families and yet be in compliance with the Governor's Emergency Order of not having more than 10 people gathered together at one time. A school reach call will go out explaining and inviting parents/guardians to the Toy Distribution as it gets closer.
The Pioneer Student Council will also be supporting a Gum Day and Wear Your Hat to School Day. Students can participate for $1 for each day, with all proceeds going toward the Toy Drive.
We are always honored and humbled by the giving nature of this community. Thank you from all of the staff, students, and families at District 484 for your continued support.
Any questions, please contact Michelle Ferguson, Pioneer Elementary Social Worker, at 468-6458 x 2216 or mferguson@pierz.k12.mn.us. If you are a family in need this holiday season, please contact Michelle or Scott to set up an appointment or be at school on December 17 between 5-7pm for distribution via drive-thru starting at the student drop-off doors.
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Our county and our community just endured the worst COVID-case month ever. We all pray that the worst is over. According to our latest County Public Health meeting, there have been a total of 32 COVID-related deaths in Morrison County, 22 of them in November. Our collective thoughts go out to all families affected by this pandemic.
Pierz Schools continues to work hard to provide children and families the stability of a school year as much as possible. We are still bringing in our K-4 children daily and strive every day to make that work.
We are pleased about some positive changes to our community data that hopefully can continue to trend in that same direction over the next few weeks. Click here for county numbers and thoughts on moving forward.
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Small Gas Engines - Distance Learning Style |
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With all classes at Healy currently in distance learning, like many other students, Mr. Gruber's Small Gas Engines students were tasked with taking on a project--solo. Here, Wyatt demonstrates the parts of the carburetor and how to properly clean it. Kids--do not try this at home! |
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VIP Room Service for Healy Staff |
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Some very special elves provided "room service" to staff at Healy this week--complete with choice of snack and drink. The goodies were hung on the doors with care, in hopes that Christmas Break soon would be there! |
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This presentation will be offered by Kate LePage, East Central Safe Harbor Regional Navigator. This training will offer parents and community members information regarding sex trafficking in Minnesota. We will dive into what Minnesota is doing to combat this issue and an overview of the dynamics involved within this issue. Additionally parents and community members will leave with a better understanding on how to identify red flags in youth and what you can do to respond. This is a highly recommended webinar for ALL parents, guardians, and community members. |
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Happenings at Pioneer Elementary |
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Fourth Graders Learn about Matter |
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Fourth graders have been investigating solids, liquids, gases, and chemical and physical changes. We have also been measuring matter. (Above) Preston, Mason,and Alyssa are using the pan balance and standard masses to find the mass of different objects. Alivia is pictured showing the chemical change when vinegar in the air surrounds a penny. We compared three pennies, one completely soaked in vinegar, one in the air above the vinegar, and one outside of the cup. They had fun and we are all grateful for in--person learning! -- Mrs. Sadlovsky |
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Friendsgiving Day in Kindergarten |
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Each year, kindergartners at Pioneer celebrate Friendsgiving together. Mrs. Ferguson is a special guest at the celebration where she teaches the students about table manners, how to pass food, proper (and improper) sounds (and smells) at the dinner table, sharing, and giving thanks for their friends. |
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Student Activities Updates |
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The MSHSL met on December 3. At that meeting, it was decided that if the Governor lifts the emergency order on December 18, winter sports has the green-light to begin practices December 19. If the order is not lifted and rather extended, we will wait for more direction at that time.
--Dave Rocheleau, Activities Director
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- December 17: Toy Drive Distribution - more details to come
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Current Community Ed Classes |
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Community Education is now a site for students to take their permit test! We will be able to proctor the online test for students who have completed the 30 hour course and have turned 15 years old. Instead of making an appointment at the courthouse, make an appointment at the Pierz Webstore! The state's website is currently undergoing an update but test dates will be posted online as soon as they are available. |
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Additional Defensive Driver (55 Alive) 4-hour refresher safety classes will be scheduled soon by local community member, retired teacher and driving instructor, Rick Sczublewski. Call 320-468-6458 ext 7 to add your name to the list for the next class. Walk-ins will not be accepted. Masks and social distancing are required. |
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Pierz Public Schools #484
District Office: 320.468.6458
112 Kamnic Street, Pierz, MN 56364
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