Wolf Tales
April 2025
Spring Break Reflection
A Note of Gratitude from the Principal
Over Spring Break, I had the rare chance to pause and reflect on the incredible responsibility and privilege of being a principal. As those thoughts settled in, one feeling rose to the top—gratitude.
I’m deeply thankful for the trust this community places in me to help guide the education and well-being of so many of our children. It’s a profound responsibility, and one I don’t take lightly. But I’m not in this alone. Every day, I’m surrounded by dedicated families, committed staff, and a school board that has long pursued excellence—not just during my time here, but well before it.
Our bus drivers, coaches, custodians, teachers, support staff, and administrators all play vital roles in shaping the environment where our students can grow and thrive. They transport, support, clean, guide, teach, listen, and care. Their contributions make our schools strong and our students successful.
This work fills my life with purpose. I believe deeply in the mission of education—that when we know better, we do better. And I remain committed to learning, growing, and becoming the best leader I can be for our students and this community.
Being an Algoma Wolf is something I’m incredibly proud of, and I hope every member of our community feels that same pride. Together, we are building something special.
As you read through this newsletter and get a glimpse into the exciting things happening in our classrooms, I hope you, too, feel a renewed sense of pride in our school. There is so much to celebrate here in Algoma, and it is an honor to share that journey with all of you.
With gratitude,
Mr. Robertson
Security Update
As you know, the Algoma School District is committed to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for all of our students, staff, and visitors. As part of this effort, we are excited to announce the implementation of a new visitor management system in both buildings, called the Raptor system.
All visitors who enter the school during regular school hours will be required to check in using the Raptor system. This includes parents, guardians, volunteers, and any other guests. Here's what you can expect:
Upon arrival, you will be asked to present a photo ID (such as a driver’s license) in the main office.
Your ID will be scanned and checked against national databases to ensure the safety of everyone in the building.
Once cleared, you will receive a printed visitor badge that must be worn while in the building.
You will not need to present a photo ID for any subsequent visits, but you will still need to check in with the main office each time you visit.
Please note that the system does not store any sensitive personal information and is only used for safety screening purposes.
We understand this is a change from our previous procedures, and we appreciate your support as we work to enhance school security. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact our front office.
Thank you for helping us keep our school community safe!
New Welding Equipment Added
Student Voice and Choice in English 1
Freshmen students in Mrs. Pairolero's English 1 class grew in their collaborative discussion skills during a unit involving literature circles. The students had input in what books would be read and determined their own schedule. They spent the class periods either reading their books, capturing their thoughts in their annotations, or leading discussions in small groups. Their engagement and growth was impressive. During wrap up presentations, the overwhelming feedback was they enjoyed reading about experiences different from their own through books they would not have normally chosen for themselves.
Technical Titration Lab
Chemistry students worked hard to complete a technical titration lab. In simple terms, titration is a method used to determine the concentration of a substance by slowly adding a solution of known concentration (the titrant) to a known volume of the substance (the analyte) until the reaction is complete, often indicated by a color change. This requires very specific techniques to get a near perfect result fully neutralized. It takes practice and patience.
The 7th and 8th grade students showcased their creativity and choreography skills at the Spring Fling Dance. The 8th grade class collaboratively designed the event, incorporating handmade spring flower-themed decorations. Numerous students contributed by providing food, beverages, and additional items to ensure the event's success. Additionally, Ellie Reif professionally captured the evening's highlights through photography. The dance was a triumph, reflecting the students' exceptional teamwork. A heartfelt appreciation is extended to all the parents, teachers, and staff who supported various aspects of this memorable occasion.
Band and Choir Tour/Perform in the Southern United States
Since Mrs. Massey arrived in Algoma nearly 20 years ago, the band and choirs have been traveling the country every two years at least. Most of the trips have been in the Midwest, states east of here, or the south. This year 64 students, two directors, nine chaperones and 3 extra adults traveled to the deep south. The tour included, visiting Mammoth Cave National Park, the Grand Ole Opry, the WWII Museum, The French Quarter, and Jackson Square. The group also experienced a steamboat ride on the Mississippi River, a haunted cemetery tour, and a swamp tour that feature alligators and more. Student musicians performed at Rock n' Bowl, a steamship dock, and Our Lady of Guadalupe.
