Mercer Memo
Tiger Families: November 3 - November 10, 2024
Small School. Big Opportunity.
Vision Statement:
Mercer School students are empowered to succeed in personal pathways, expand their potential, find joy in learning, and thrive in a diverse and global community.
Strategic Priority: Teaching and Learning
Mock Election
Teaching and Learning in Action
As part of a collaborative project between the Speech and Composition and Civics classes, students in grades 9 through 12 took part in an immersive mock election experience. This project aimed to deepen their understanding of democratic processes, persuasive communication, and the structure of the U.S. electoral system.
On the morning of November 1, students presented their campaign speeches in the school cafeteria, transforming the space into a lively forum for political discourse. Each student, acting as a candidate, delivered a persuasive speech outlining their platform on selected issues. Their peers served as the electorate, attentively listening to each platform before casting their votes.
To add authenticity to the experience, the voting results will be analyzed using both the popular vote and an Electoral College-style system. This dual approach helps students grasp the impact and nuances of these voting methods in real-world elections.
Throughout this project, students engaged in higher-order thinking by conducting in-depth research on current issues, considering various perspectives, and articulating their positions. They wrote compelling, persuasive speeches, carefully crafted campaign materials, and produced campaign commercials to further enhance their message. This multi-faceted project allowed students to develop essential skills in research, critical thinking, public speaking, and media production, preparing them for informed and active citizenship.
Strategic Priorities: Developing the Whole Child & Culture and Community
Culture and Community: A culture of partnership, inclusivity and positive relationships, both inside and outside the school, supports students, staff, and the community. Stakeholders actively participate to achieve a shared vision of success.
Read below for examples of how Mercer School is focused on developing the whole child and a positive culture and community.
Culinary Arts
Electives Allow Students to Pursue Their Interests
This year, the Culinary Arts program is spicing things up with an exciting new twist! Staff members are stepping in as judges, tasting and evaluating students' creative culinary dishes. Last week’s theme was Halloween, and the students didn’t hold back when inventing spooky, fun, and slightly creepy dishes. From "Zombie Guts" to "Witch Fingers" and "Monster Brains," their creations combined creativity with serious skills in the kitchen.
Judges were impressed not only by the presentation but also by the delicious flavors that students managed to whip up. This new judging element has added a fun, competitive edge to the class, encouraging students to experiment with new techniques and bold ideas. We’re looking forward to seeing what other inventive dishes our Culinary Arts students cook up as the year continues!
Halloween
School-Wide Celebrations Improve Culture and Sense of Belonging
Despite the uncooperative weather that caused our traditional outdoor Halloween parade to be cancelled, students still enjoyed a celebration indoors. Dressed in a fun array of costumes, students gathered as the school band set the mood, playing "The Addams Family" theme and leading the parade through the halls.
After the indoor parade, elementary students returned to their classrooms for Halloween-themed activities, where they enjoyed special treats with their friends and teachers. Many families extended the celebration by visiting the Mercer Public Library and participating in the Halloween festivities organized by downtown businesses.
We are grateful for the continued support of our local community, who come together each year to make Halloween a special experience for our students. Events like these not only bring joy but also help foster a sense of community, creating lasting memories for our children. Thank you to everyone involved for making this Halloween a wonderful celebration!
Mercer volleyball players pose in Halloween costumes: From left to right: Kevin from the office, The Rock, Voldemort, Mr. Clean, Caillou, Gru, and Pitbull.
When your squad knows exactly how to go bananas for Halloween! 🍌🐒🐒🐒
Mercer Athletics
Athletics is one way that we support the whole child and make sure that students have the opportunity to pursue their interests and excel academically, physically, and emotionally. Kudos to our teams! Go Tigers!
9 Time Regional Champs!
Congratulations to our amazing volleyball team on an outstanding season, highlighted by their ninth consecutive regional championship win! Although their journey ended with a hard-fought, five-set loss to Prentice in the sectional semifinals on October 31, our athletes have left an indelible mark on the court and in our hearts.
Under the guidance of Coach Schoeneman, who wrapped up her final season this year, the team showcased exceptional dedication, skill, and spirit. Coach Schoeneman has built a legacy over the years, shaping a powerhouse team that has brought pride and excitement to our community. Her commitment to excellence and the resilience she instilled in her players have been inspiring to watch.
Thank you to our players, Coach Schoeneman, and everyone who supported the team throughout this memorable season. Your hard work and passion have brought us countless moments of joy and pride. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Mercer volleyball as this legacy continues to inspire future players.
Community Partnerships
Craft Fair
Strategic Priority: Environment for Learning
The physical, social, and emotional environment for learning is designed and maintained to provide a safe, creative, engaging, and dynamic space for learners.
Upgraded Door System
Upgrades to Facilities Improve Environment for Learning
A big thank you goes out to our dedicated Building and Grounds team, Adam Kussard and Randy Thompson, for their hard work and expertise in ensuring a smooth installation of our updated door system and brand-new doors. This important upgrade not only enhances the overall safety of our school but also brings added convenience for staff and students.
With the new system in place, the playground door can now be accessed using the same fob system as the main entrance, streamlining entry and exit while maintaining secure access. These improvements are part of our ongoing commitment to creating a safe and efficient environment for our entire school community. We truly appreciate Adam and Randy’s attention to detail and commitment to making our school a better place every day!
Be a part of the great things that are happening at Mercer School!
Mercer Happenings
Nov 4: First day of Quarter 2
Nov 4-15: Candle Sale, Class of '26
Nov 4 @ 10:00 AM: Duluth Superior Scholarship Presentation/11th & 12th grades
Nov 4 @ 12:00-3:30 PM: OSHA 10 Class/Tech Ed Students
Nov 4 @ 5:30 PM: MS Boys Bball Game vs. Ironwood @ Home
Nov 6 @ 12:00 - 3:30 PM: OSHA 10 Class/Tech Ed Students
Nov 7 @ 9:00 AM-3:30 PM: Quiz Bowl at Gogebic College, grades 9-12
Nov 8 @ 12:00 PM-3:30 PM: OSHA 10 Class/Tech Ed Students
Nov 8 @ 5:30 PM: MS Boys Bball Game vs. Bayfield @ Home
Nov 11 10:00 AM-11:15 AM: Veteran's Day Program In the gym
Nov 11 @ 4:30 PM: MS Boys Bball Game @ Wakefield
What's for Lunch this Week?
Lunch Menu
Monday, Nov 4
Corn Dogs, Green Beans, Mixed FruitTuesday, Nov 5
Pulled Pork, Mashed Potatoes, Cali Veggies, ApplesauceWednesday, Nov 6
Thai Chicken, Rice, Broccoli, PeachesThursday, Nov 7
Sloppy Joes, Tater Tots, Pears
Friday, Nov 8
Fish Sticks, French Fries, Peas, Pistachio FluffSupport the Mercer Athletic Booster Club!
Click on the link below to download a sponsorship form.
Click on the link below to download a sponsorship form.
Coffee with Renae
Wednesday, Nov 20, 2024, 09:00 AM
Mercer School LIbrary
Attendance Matters
For children and teens, attending school isn’t just about getting an education. It’s about developing their whole selves—emotionally, socially, and personally.
Attending school regularly and in person gives students the ability to follow daily routines, as well as connect with friends, peers, teachers, and others outside their family circle. They’re able to engage and interact, to use their brains and try new things. They can be part of a team. They have a purpose.
Help your child be their best self. Promote good attendance.
Credit: Adapted from The Ad Council
2024-25 Mercer School Calendar
Mercer School
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Turtle Flambeau Flowage
Mercer School App
Renae McMurray
Email: rmcmurray@mercertigers.org
Website: https://www.mercer.k12.wi.us/
Location: 2690 Margaret Street, Mercer, WI, USA
Phone: 715-388-8274