Congratulations to Tyler Hedlund and Kendra Kalstad!

Mrs. Mannausau wrote: I have been fortunate to have Tyler as a student in my math class for two consecutive years. It has been a true joy to witness his growth, both academically and personally, during this time. Tyler’s ability to grasp concepts quickly is impressive, but what truly sets him apart is his dedication and work ethic. He consistently puts in the effort outside the classroom to ensure he not only understands the material but excels at it. With his natural intelligence, perseverance, and determination, I have no doubt that Tyler will achieve great success in his future endeavors!

Mr. Sandberg wrote: Kendra is very deserving as student of the month. She is a true role model for younger students. Her work ethic, drive, and attitude is unwavering. She always comes to class prepared and ready to learn. She always has a positive attitude and a smile every day. It has been a joy to get to know Kendra the past several years. She will be a positive member of society in her next chapter in life.

On Friday, Terrence Lee Tally and Company visited FHS and FES students, bringing heartfelt messages to audiences of all ages through music, laughter, dancing, stories of resilience and the impact we all have on others.

For students in grades 2-5, Terrence shared lessons about being a good friend and looking out for one another. His engaging and relatable stories encouraged younger students to prioritize kindness and empathy in their daily lives.

For middle school and high school students, Terrence delivered powerful presentations titled "Never Give Up" and "I've Got Your Back." His message of hope resonated deeply, with stories that sparked both laughter and tears. These moments inspired students to reflect on the importance of supporting others, regardless of the challenges life may bring.

During a special lunch with student leaders from the Minnesota Honor Society, Student Council, Leadership Team, and KAPE, Terrence explored the theme of everyday leadership. He emphasized that leadership isn’t always about holding a title; it’s about showing up for others in meaningful ways.

Through his stories and examples, he reminded students of the powerful impact they can have by simply being present, kind, and supportive.

Terrence’s visit left a lasting impression on students and staff alike, encouraging everyone to reflect on their ability to inspire and uplift those around those around them.

Ceramic and Drawing students are wrapping up their final projects!

FHS Senior High Knowledge Bowl competed in their first meet of the season on Wednesday, January 15th in Mt. Iron. The two teams competed against 10 other teams from the northland, including teams from Cook County, Ely, Greenway, Hill City and Northwoods. Team 1 - William Ginter, Doug Salo, Matthew Foley and Andy Davenport started with a solid written score of 34, which placed them in 5th place at the onset of the 4 oral rounds. They duked it out with teams from Greenway and Ely most of the meet, scoring 10, 6, 13 and 8 points in each of the oral rounds. Team 1 finished in 4th place with a score of 76 points, just a 1/2 point behind Greenway. Team 2 - Landan Snyder, Sig Ginter, Bradley Muerhring and Remington Brade started off tied for 2nd place after getting a 39 on the written test. They scored 2, 5, 8 and 7 points in each of the 4 oral rounds. They ended the meet in 7th place with a score of 65.

Coach Zahradka was very pleased with how her teams performed at the meet and was excited to see some of the strengths of her newest participants. The team attends its next meet on Thursday, January 30th.

It can be challenging to know what the future holds. Thinking about the career pathways, combined with interests and lifestyle goals can help!

Try the following LINKS to help you think about your future!

Hey Bronco Fans! 🎉 Click the link below to explore our amazing collection of Bronco gear! Show your school spirit while supporting the 2025 FHS PROM! 🐴 A portion of every purchase goes directly to the PROM committee, helping them create an unforgettable event!

Shop online or in-person! Every dollar earned helps our school! Every little bit helps so much~ thank you to those who are already making a difference!

Falls High School just received our first check of the year, which supports events and opportunities for students! Please know that your efforts DO make a difference!

Here's how:

While the 6th and 7th graders wait for the bus each day, Ms. Jaksa loves to add a bit of fun to their routine! Today's activity was a timed staring contest, and it had everyone laughing and enjoying themselves. The students truly appreciate connecting with teachers both inside and outside the classroom!

As the semester draws to a close, Spanish 2 students are showcasing their creativity through dynamic and engaging final projects that highlights their mastery of the language as well as their understanding of the culture.

Students are building their language skills by practicing how to describe people in Spanish. To make learning fun and engaging, they are playing the game Guess Who?, where they use descriptive phrases to identify characters.

My name is Brandon Barras and I am currently serving as the cultural liaison for the Indian Education department. I have accepted the Anishinaabe Language, History, and Culture teaching position and will be taking over for Tom Vollom once he retires. During my time as a student at FHS, I participated in football, basketball, track and field, and Ojibwe Quiz Bowl. I graduated from FHS and obtained an associate's degree from Rainy River Community College (MN North College - Rainy River) in 2014. I earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota - Morris and minored in American Indian Studies. I worked in special education for the past 5 years before transitioning to the cultural liaison position. I am also an assistant coach for the varsity football team and have coached varsity girls basketball in the past. Between football and basketball, I have coached fifteen seasons for students grades 7-12. My two older sisters (Amanda and Katie) were in some of Tom's first Ojibwe classes at Falls High School and my niece is currently in Tom's American Indian Studies class. Outside of school, I spend my time coaching, watching sports, and playing video games.

My favorite thing about teaching at FHS is interacting with the students and being there to help support them.

My name is Lori Potter. I was born in Virginia, MN and lived there until 5th grade when my family moved to International Falls. I have been married to my husband Gary for going on 39 years. We have 3 amazing sons Kyle, Adam (Lexie) and Josh (Jory), we also have 3 wonderful grandsons Brooks (Kyle’s) who is 7, Brody (Kyle’s) who is 4, and Bennett (Adam & Lexie’s) who is 7 months old, we will also be adding another grandchild the end of February (Josh & Jory’s). Plus, we have 3 grandpups. Gary & I feel extremely blessed.

I have been a Special Ed paraprofessional for 20 years; I have worked with students from preschool all the way up to 12th grade. For the last 15 years I have worked at the high school level. What I like about my job is that I get to work and meet a variety of students, and I have enjoyed getting to know them all. Being a paraprofessional is very rewarding and I have enjoyed each every one of the students that I have crossed paths with.

A couple of fun facts are that both my husband and I, along with our three sons have all graduated from FHS and have been HUGE Bronco supporters over the years. My husband was a volunteer team trainer for several years and would attend all the varsity games taking care of injuries that may arise. I have been a Bronco basketball cheer advisor for 14 years now, I have enjoyed watching all the boys that have come through the basketball program, and I have enjoyed the special bonds with my girls over the years.

In my spare time I like to ice fish, help with the I Falls Bass Championship, watching my two older grandsons play hockey for I. Falls purple teams, read, camp in our 5th wheeler, have family time at our shack and just enjoy all my amazing family and friends.

Falls High School Teachers will now be available for Homework Help. Some of the help is during the day if students have open hours or if finished with work they may request a pass to see one of these teachers. Some of sessions are being offered outside of the school day. Please continue to watch for changes/additions to these sessions. Feel free to reach out to teachers with questions!

• 1st Hour Daily~ Mrs. Staples Room 204 (English)
• 1st Hour Daily~ Mr. Sandberg Room 113 (Social Studies)
• 2nd Hour Daily~ Mrs. Boyle Room 203 (English/Writing 6th Graders)
• 2nd Hour Daily~ Mrs. Mannausau Room 212 (Math)
• 3rd Hour Daily~ Mr. Dowty Room 108 (Math)
• 4th Hour Daily~ Mr. Awe Room 210 (Math)
• 5th Hour Daily~ Mr. Kaviuk Room 104 (Social Studies)

After School Homework Help (any subject) ~ Mr. Hemstad Room 115 M-Th

After School Homework Help (any subject) ~ Ms. Groom (Library) Mondays 3:20-4:20

Before School Extra Credit/Science ~ Ms. Jaksa Room 121 Fridays

Watch for changes and/or additions as the year goes on!

Please talk to a trusted adult if you or a friend are struggling with conflict, bullying. We have attached some resources below as a guide. When we bring a community together, conflicts inevitably arise. If the conflict persists into bullying or harassment it is imperative that students and adults work together to make it stop. At FHS we take this seriously and will thoughtfully and carefully investigate each incidence, help resolve conflict, and address bullying. Everyone deserves to feel safe at school!

Conflict and bullying are issues that need adult intervention and support. Please see the following resources!

Please watch for more LINKS to be added in the future!