Friday, April 10, 2020 - Issue #51
Distance Education:
the new 'normal' for staff, students, and parents
The second week of distance education is in the rearview mirror for staff, students, and parents at Pierz Schools and throughout the state. With four days' notice before heading into spring break, Pierz Schools teachers and administration completely revamped the curriculum and delivery to over 1,200 students. While there have been some hiccups along the way, we couldn't be more proud of staff, students, and parents for their dedication, focus, patience, and understanding as we take on this new educational format. Many have asked, "How long will this distance education last?" and we just don't know the answer. We continue to receive updates from the Minnesota Department of Education on recommendations, requirements, and timelines and will keep the community updated.

Governor Tim Walz and Education Commissioner Mary Cathryn Ricker have announced that all Minnesota public school districts and charter schools will implement a Distance Learning Period beginning on March 30, 2020, until at least May 4, 2020. However, MDE also states that schools should be planning to potentially finish the year in this distance education model.
COVID-19: District Updates & Resources
Finding What You Need On Our Website
We have put together web pages with resources for staff, families and students. From our District homepage , you'll find access to Pioneer Distance Learning and Healy Distance Learning pages, form for enrolling in the breakfast/lunch delivery program , form to request Chromebook repairs (Healy students only--Pioneer students will report Chromebook issues to their teachers), links to free resources for online learning and enrichment , and more.

Updates to the shutdown will also be posted on our COVID-19 Update Page - also linked at the top of our District, Healy, and Pioneer landing pages.
In need of more data or free Wi-Fi hotspots ? We have put together those resources here as well.
Highlights and Day Brighteners
Don't Miss Out on Fun with Mr. Otte!
Each week, Mr. Otte finds new ways to keep active and engaged when staying at home. Be sure to bookmark the ' Fun with Mr. Otte ' page on our website-- also located on the Pioneer Elementary Distance Learning page .
Making Masks for Healthcare
Mr. Teske, 7th grade science teacher at Healy, is using the 3D printer to 'print' parts of face shields for health care workers. Coordinating with Scott Saehr and Police Chief Eric Hanneken, the goal is to donate these face shields to emergency first responders.
Seniors Make a Memorable T-shirt
Sisters Amaya and Alana Rocheleau and Becky and Elizabeth Kelash are designing and making the Class of 2020 t-shirts. It's one of many bright spots of positivity coming from our students during this trying time.
Lights On for Staff, Students, Families, & Community
On Monday, April 6, the Pierz community Turned on the Lights to show a beacon of hope and support for our entire community during this time. Thank you to Dan Vang for capturing this image and for Jim Gray for creating this movie . We are a strong community when we are celebrating success and an even stronger one when we come together to make the hardships easier. We should all be Pioneer Proud!
** Staff Spotlight **
"We are here for you; we will get through this together!"
Healy band director Mr. Joel Pohland got creative with the Zoom conferencing tool that many teachers are using to deliver distance-based lessons. Watch as Mr. Pohland takes on 14 instrumental ensembles and then compiles all of them to play "Sweet Caroline." Outstanding!
Looking Ahead...
April 10 - No School
April 13- No School
Local hotspots provide free Wi-Fi for Pierz families
Several hotspots have been activated by CTC, Fallsnet and local businesses for students and families to access during this time of Distance Learning. A full list of resources is also on our Internet Access page :
  • Radio Shack in Little Falls is offering free Wi-Fi in the parking lot. Connect to CTC/Design network and accept the terms.
  • Tiny's Tavern parking lot in Lastrup is also the newest free Wi-Fi hotspot courtesy of Fallsnet. 
  • Hillman Legion Post #602 has free Wi-Fi accessible in their parking lot
  • Verizon also announced they are adding 15GB to all metered plans and to unlimited hotspots (30GB now). This goes through the end of April.
Follow the Pierz Community Education facebook page for a daily message of encouragement and an activity to stay active!

Check Facebook or the website for Community Education's list of enrichment classes. We are working hard to think outside the box to continue providing lifelong learning opportunities for you!

Registration for JVL baseball and summer Driver's Ed 30 hour classroom course is open!
Pierz Public Schools #484
District Office: 320.468.6458
112 Kamnic Street, Pierz, MN 56364