January 30 Update

Happy National Day of Fun at Work 2026!

Toot Your Horn Thursday:

Yuska Ferreira Peixoto was nominated by Lynn Jensen for "I am thrilled to nominate Yuska for her exceptional contributions to the McKinley community. Yuska is an amazing staff member who consistently demonstrates reliability and a positive attitude in every interaction.

Whether she is working with students or collaborating with her colleagues, she is almost always smiling, bringing a sense of joy and warmth to our environment. Her flexibility and willingness to "jump in" and help whenever needed make her an invaluable asset to our team. Most importantly, the students truly love her, which is a testament to the genuine care and positivity she brings to her work every day. Yuska is a joy to be around, and she truly embodies the spirit of McKinley."

National School Counselor Week:

Next week is a week to honor Amanda Andrews and all she does to support our McKinley community. Amanda wears many hats that often go "unnoticed". Please take some time next week to thank her for all she does!

Building Weekly Newsletter:

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter

MESPA - 

Lastly, please note that I am out next Wednesday-Friday at the MN Elementary Principals' conference.  Amanda Andrews will be filling in and Julie Sullivan will be on call.  Please be aware of this with any requests on W-F.  I will be checking my email on those days.  

Have a great weekend!

-Justin

January 23 Update

Happy Friday!   I hope you are each staying warm!  

Steph Out Next Week

Just a reminder - Steph is out next week.  Tiffany will be filling in for Steph.  Please be aware we are down a person with any requests you are making next week.  

4 Characteristics of a Warm Demander:

Linked is an article on the characteristics of a warm demander.  In the last two years, we have spend some time and energy focused on the idea of a "warm demander" - someone who has high expectations, but also a love and care for kids.  This idea may sound simple, but it's really a complex balancing act.  Take some time to read through the article - a great reminder as we enter into the second half of the year.   Side note - the article references a great Austin (MN) Principal Jessica Cabeen!  

Para/EA Appreciation Week:

Another shout out to our amazing paraprofessionals and Educational Assistants in honor of their appreciation week!  These educators go above and beyond to ensure that our kids (and staff) are supported.  Linked is the slideshow with the video, in case you haven't seen it yet.  Please take a minute today to reach out and thank these amazing educators! 

Family-Teacher Conferences:

Just a reminder - Family Teacher Conferences are coming up on February 10, 12, and 13.   Below is a guest blog by our very own Eric Oppegard on how to hear voices and check in with families.   What a great way to involve families in our partnership!   

Every day we have the opportunity to hear from our students about how they feel school is going for them, but is that how they really feel?  What are they telling their families?  How do their families feel?  How can we make sure all voices are being heard?  

A few years ago, I started sending out a brief survey to gather information before conferences to help me prepare.  To be honest, I was hoping it would prevent being blindsided by a comment or question from a family at conferences and this gave me time to think about my response. I realize this was more self-motived to avoid something.  We also know that it is often easier to type/write something than actually say it.   As it turned out, it opened my eyes to really hearing from families.  As time passed, the survey transformed into really hearing each family's perspective and gaining insight into their student’s education.  

For the survey, I use the following questions:

1.  Names of people attending the conference.  I realize this might change, but this gives me an idea of how many people will be here.  

2. Overall, how is your student feeling about the school year so far? This is on a linear scale with a 1 representing -This year has been very tough/challenging for my student to a 5 representing-This has been the best year/my student is really enjoying school this year.

3. Please explain your rating for the previous question.

4. Overall, how are you as parents/guardians feeling about the school year so far?
   This is on a linear scale with a 1 representing-Very frustrated or displeased to a 5 representing-Very pleased and happy about the year so far

5. Please explain your rating for the previous question.

6. What do you feel are the strengths of your student? (these can be academic, social, things you are proud of, etc)  

7. What are some areas you feel your student needs to work on?  (these can be academic, social, etc.)  

8. We will be writing an academic goal for your student during conferences.  What would you like to see your student focus on and work towards?  We will try to be specific with skills.  

9. Please identify any questions or concerns you would like addressed at conferences.

I change the form in the winter to gather information since the last conference.  These are the questions I use for the winter conference:

1.  Names of people attending the conference.  I realize this might change, but this gives me an idea of how many people will be here.  

2. Overall, how is your student feeling about school since our last conference?  This is on a linear scale with a 1 representing -This year has been very tough/challenging for my student to a 5 representing-Feels good and is learning and enjoying school.

3. Please explain your rating for the previous question.

4. Overall, how are you as parents/guardians feeling about school since fall conferences?  This is on a linear scale with a 1 representing-Very frustrated or displeased to a 5 representing-Very pleased and happy 

5. Please explain your rating for the previous question.

6. Please offer any suggestions to help continue making school a great place for your student.  

7. Please identify any questions or concerns you would like addressed at conferences.

How is this helpful?  When looking through comments before conferences, I found a theme that students were not feeling good about math.  I wouldn’t have found this out just from talking with the students, but obviously, they are going home sharing frustration, questions, or how they lack confidence.  I was able to gently bring that up at conferences, and the student looked relieved that we were going to talk about it.  We cleared up some misconceptions, and we all felt very positive about the conversations.  One family even reached out after thanking me for being the one to bring it up, as the student didn’t want the family to bring it up.  I wouldn’t have even known to bring this up, had it not been on the survey.  

Another example was how one student was having problems with her two friends.  I didn’t see any issues in the classroom, but because the family put that on the survey, I was able to open a conversation about friendships.  We had a great discussion, and since I was already aware, had brainstormed some possible solutions.  We worked together with student input on what steps we could take.  Their students didn’t want them to bring it up at conferences.  Since this was shared on the survey, I was able to casually bring it up without the family having to, and the family was very thankful.  

The information that I gain through these surveys provides many talking points and helps guide my planning for the conference and insures that families and students feel their voice is heard. 

Building Weekly Newsletter:

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter

Have a great weekend!

-Justin

January 16 Update

Happy Friday!  Short blog today...

Just a reminder - Monday and Tuesday there is no school (Monday is teacher workday; Tuesday is staff development).  Please check your email for your schedule on Tuesday.  

Toot Your Horn:

Congrats to this week's receipents!

Katy Furniss was nomianted by Amanda Andrews - I am so grateful to get to partner with Katie. She is so in tune with her students and knows exactly when to reach out for support. They trust her and know that they can go to her for what they need -- even if it means that Katie gets the extra person involved. Every student in her room knows that they are cared for and safe to ask questions. You are doing such a fantastic job helping your students grow. Thank you for always being collaborative and doing what is best for your students!

Matt Williams was nominated by Eric Oppegard - It has been great having Matt as part of our team. Matt makes great connections with his students and works hard to meet their needs. His collaborative nature, positive attitude, and great laugh make McKinley a better place for all!

Para/EA Appreciation Week:

Next week is Para/EA Appreciation Week! Don't forget to show your appreciation for our amazing team of educators!

Building Weekly Newsletter:

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter

Have a great weekend!

-Justin

January 9 Update

Happy Friday! 

Another great week at McKinley!  

Welcome to our New Nurse!

Christa Kain joined us this week as a our new school nurse.  Below is a little information about her - stop in and meet her!  

I'm Christa Kain, and I am excited to join the McKinley team as your new school nurse. Born and raised in Owatonna and a past McKinley student this transition from the OHS is exciting. Outside of the school day you might see me at Costas making candy, or working at the Art Center in the office or in the pottery studio. Mitch and I enjoy all of Minnesota's seasons with our three dogs Archie, our senior German Shepherd and our two Bernese Mountain Dogs Lilah and Gus! Variety can be the zest of life! I look forward to working with you!!

Toot Your Horn:

January can be a tough month - let's fill this building with positive energy!  If you come across a moment of appreciation, please complete the linked form to nominate someone for Toot Your Horn!

Staffing for 26-27:

As we enter the time of year when staffing conversations take place across our elementary buildings, I want to share that while sections have not yet been finalized, we are anticipating some reductions due to decreased enrollment. If you are considering a change in your plans for next year, please reach out and let me know.  Teaching Staff, if you haven't already, please complete the Job Assignment Feedback form.  This helps me with knowing your interest in staying in your position or exploring other grade levels/positions.  

Building Weekly Newsletter:

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter

Have a great weekend!

-Justin

December 19 Update

Happy Friday!

This will be the last post for 2025.  I hope you all have a relaxing and rejuvenating winter break!

Friendly Reminder - Communication:

This a friendly reminder about communication.  This week alone, we fielded many questions that were easily found in the announcements, blog, and the December 19 movie document.  Our office is more than willing to help - that's our role.  I need you to start reading the announcements, blog, and other documents closely.  

Hugging a Porcupine:

As we close out the 2025 year, I want you to reflect back to our opening day "He is Ours" story.  Remember how emotional many got as we read about the impact we have on our kids - and how they will always be ours?  Then, the challenges, behaviors, and reminders came along, adding stress and frustration to our interactions.  Take some time over break to re-read the story and think about what 2026 will look like for you.  How can we make the idea of "hugging a porcupine" a part of our every day life?  

Environmental Set Up for Sensory Support (from Dr. Dokken):

Dr. Dokken has provided some great tips for sensory support within your spaces.  

Click here to view the document

A Huge Thank You:

To our amazing school community -thank you for being the glue, the sparkle, and sometimes the miracle workers who keep our school running day after day. Your hard work, patience, and dedication do not go unnoticed—even when you repeat a direction for the 28th time or the coffee runs out a little too early. As winter break arrives, we hope you trade lesson plans and emails for cozy blankets, good food, and well-earned rest. Please relax, recharge, and enjoy every peaceful moment—you’ve more than earned it. We can’t wait to see you refreshed, smiling, and ready to shine in the new year! ❄️✨

Building Weekly Newsletter:

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter - December 22-23

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter - January 5 -9

Have a great weekend!  2 more days.... we can do it!

-Justin

December 12 Update

Happy Friday!

Toot Your Horn Thursday:

Tiffany Geary and Steph Stolp were nominated by 3rd Grade for "Thank you for doing all that you do for students and staff! You go above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome, safe, and happy here at McKinley! We appreciate all you do!"

Fastbridge Winter 2026 Plan:

When we return from winter break, we will begin our FastBridge Winter Benchmark Assessment window (Jan 7 - 16).  Please open and view the relevant parts of this document that has all schedules, resources, and plans for winter benchmark assessments.  

FastBridge Benchmark Assessment Plan - Winter 2026

• ALL staff should look at page 1 (Schedule at a Glance) and note important testing days and times that may impact your schedule.
• Classroom Teachers:  Read page 1 & 2 and click on the linked assessment plan for the grade you teach.  Add dates and times to your calendars & lesson plans. 
• T2/T3 Intervention Teachers:  Read page 1 & 2 and see schedule and plan on linked Intervention Plan Page.  Prior to assessment, review testing protocols and gather materials for any assessments you will be giving (linked on your page).
• SpEd/EL: Read pages 1 & 2 and linked SpEd/EL Plan page and familiarize yourself with schedules and plans for any grade-levels you support. Prior to assessment, review testing protocols and gather materials for any assessments you will be giving (linked on your page).

Our benchmark assessment window is an important time to collect information and academic growth on all students. There's a lot of pieces to this puzzle and it's very important you are familiar with your role in helping collect all of this information as efficiently and accurately as possible.  If you have questions, please talk with Katie Demmer.  

McKStrong Celebration Plan - December 19:

Click here to access the plan for next Friday.

All In the Hall:

Just (another) friendly reminder of our "all in the hall" start to our day.  This has been a long standing routine at McKinley - which isn't happening.  When kids enter the building at 8am, we need to be moving out of our rooms and into our common spaces.  In the last week, I have observed 3 times where students enter the building with no adult greeting them.  This "all in the hall" routine is a proven way to start a strong relationship, as well as impact a student's day in a positive way. 

Connection Day - January 5:

Linked is the plan for our January 5 Connection Day.  A huge thanks to Intervention Team for planning this day! 

Building Weekly Newsletter:

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter

You've all earned a calm, relaxing weekend - enjoy it! 

-Justin

December 5 Update

Happy Friday, McKinley!

Another great week of learning and relationships at McKinley!  

Toot Your Horn Thursday:

Congrats to our four winners this week!  Don't forget, to nominate someone you can click here! 

Xandra Sorenson was nominated by the 3rd Grade Team for "Thank you Xandra for partnering with us on our final project for Module 1! The kids created great artwork to go along with their writing. You are doing amazing things with all McKinley students! Thank you!"

Bernie Jensen was nominated by Kate Tepp for "Bernie provides amazing support in our classroom during math. She purchased some flashcards earlier in the year to help support with multiplication facts. The class was so appreciative and some have never used flashcards before, so they have loved learning how to quiz friends. We are learning how to multiply 2 & 3 digit numbers right now, and she does a great job in supporting the understanding of the "why" when we multiply. Her excitement and push has helped kids become more confident in their skills. I appreciate her so much!"

Kinzie Kruschke was nominated by Mallory Baumann for "Kinzie goes above and beyond every single day! She supports student needs with such care, and makes sure every student she works with feels seen, valued, and capable. Thank you for showing up with heart, for noticing the little things, and for making a positive impact on every student!"

Katie Herbst was nominated by Karen Thurnau for "Katie was so helpful in setting up conferences for a few friends this year. She went the extra mile more than once to ensure that ALL families attended. Katie is so in tune to what is going on with ALL of her students - just like they were her own! She is an amazing coworker!"

Staffing Update:

Nurse  - Ashlee Krauss has announced her resignation effective at winter break.  Ashlee has accepted a position with Federated.  I am so sad to see her leave, as Ashlee was an amazing school nurse.  I know she will go on to do amazing things at Federated!  Please join me in wishing Ashlee the best!  The position is being posted with the hopes of having someone start after winter break.  

2nd Grade LTS - Michelle Gadient will be out from January - April.  We are excited to share that Hanna Cunnif is joining us in this role.  Hanna is a newer educator with some experience with subbing over the last year.  Please join me in welcoming Hanna!  

4th Grade LTS - I am still in process of finding a candidate.  If you know of anyone, please reach out to them and encourage to apply (and let me know, too).  

We Filled the Jar - December 19:

Please don't share any details yet with kids - they will get the announcement on Monday morning.   Linked is a plan for December 19 for you to reserve the date and time.  

Inclusive Schools Week: 

Next week is Inclusive Schools Week!   Click this link to see what our plan for the week.  

A huge thanks to Lynn Jensen for serving on this district-wide committee! 

Building Weekly Newsletter:
Click here to access the building weekly newsletter

Have a great weekend - stay warm!
-Justin