Welcome to Week 24!

I hope you’re enjoying a well-deserved break as we transition into Week 24 of the 2024‑2025 school year! I want to take a moment to reflect on our recent week and share some important updates.

Reflecting on Week 23
Last week, we had an amazing time on our Grand Slam field trip in Burnsville. It was truly inspiring to see our school community come together, enjoy the afternoon, and build lasting memories outside the classroom. I’ve included some photos below that capture the highlights of our adventure. We’re so grateful for these opportunities to leave the building, explore, and have fun together!

Week 24: Mid‑Quarter Updates

• Mid‑Quarter Week: As we reach the midpoint of this quarter, it’s a great time to review progress and set intentions for the remaining weeks.
• Assignment Reminder: All assignments are due by 3:00 PM on Friday, February 28. Please note that the building will be closed on Friday. Students must complete Friday’s assignments independently—either at home or during designated work time throughout the week.

Enrollment for the 2025‑2026 School Year
We are excited to announce that enrollment for the 2025‑2026 school year is now open! At AFA, our commitment to nurturing every student is reflected in our trauma-informed approach. We understand that every student comes with unique experiences, and our dedicated staff is trained to create a safe, supportive, and responsive learning environment. Our goal is to empower students by addressing their emotional and academic needs, ensuring they feel valued and understood. Whether you’re a returning family or considering joining us for the first time, we invite you to explore how our school community can make a difference in your child’s educational journey. For more details about the enrollment process, to schedule a tour, or to ask any questions, please visit our website or contact our main office.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement. Let’s keep up the momentum and finish the quarter strong!

Warm regards,

Ms. Heidi
Executive Director

P.S. Should you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to email me at heidi.anderson@afa.tc or call/text at 612-245-1844.

At Augsburg Fairview Academy, we believe Black history IS United States history. We are committed to disrupting White, Eurocentric educational systems and curricula. We are committed to embedding an antiracist curriculum all year, not only during observation weeks or months.

To do this, we will do the following:

1. Begin with student voice and experience.
2. Educate students about the socio-political context.
3. Highlight the role additional communities of color play in Black history.
4. Introduce complex descriptions of key figures in history.

Until the influences, experiences, and achievements of Black Americans and people of African descent are intentionally, mindfully, and strategically woven into textbooks, Augsburg Fairview Academy will ensure our curriculum embeds Black, Brown, and Indigenous narratives. We will not whitewash, omit, or ignore the impact African Americans made and continue to make on the United States' social, political, and economic structures.

AFA is a Community Eligibility Provision school, so all students are eligible for free breakfast and lunch. It is still important for families to complete the Alternative Application for Educational Benefits, which is linked below. This application can help bring in additional funding to AFA to increase educational opportunities.

We are committed to providing a focused and distraction-free environment at Augsburg Fairview Academy. As part of our efforts, we have a strict cell phone policy requiring students to pouch their phones upon arrival, keeping them secured until dismissal, unless there is an emergency.

Key Policy Points:

• Phones must be placed in Yondr pouches at arrival.
• Phones can only be accessed after dismissal.
• Parents should contact the main office at 612-333-1614 to reach their student.

Updated Enforcement:
Effective immediately, students who refuse to pouch their phones after redirection will be sent home. This action is necessary to prevent distractions and maintain a productive learning environment.

Why This Matters:

• Improved Academic Outcomes: A 10.3% increase in passing rates reflects the positive impact of a distraction-free space.
• Better Engagement: Teachers report increased focus and fewer disruptions.
• Social & Emotional Benefits: A phone-free environment fosters healthier interactions.
• Research Supports: Studies show that reducing phone use improves both academics and mental well-being.

We ask for your support in discussing this policy with your student. If special circumstances require phone access, please contact us to discuss options.

Thank you for helping us create the best environment for student success.

Warm regards,

Ms. Heidi
Executive Director

Augsburg Fairview Academy

Mission: We are a passionate learning community dedicated to serving the academic, social, and emotional needs of high school students in a safe and welcoming environment. We provide individualized options to help students successfully graduate and set clear expectations for them to explore and pursue their dreams.

Vision: AFA is committed to serving and participating in our local community, working compassionately to promote social justice and equity through education, and contributing to our intercultural family.

Email: info@afa.tc
Website: www.afa.tc
Location: 3109 East 50th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Phone: 612-333-1614
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AugsburgFairviewAcademy