Students for the Elks "Student of the Month" are chosen based on achievements in academics, citizenship, community service, fine arts, athletics, and other areas of involvement. The students are honored at monthly school board meetings and are invited to attend the Spring Elks Banquet, where they are introduced and presented with a monetary award.

We are incredibly proud to honor these two students for their leadership and contributions to our school community. Please enjoy reading what teachers had to say about them.

Torin is the kind of student that stands out not just for his athletic abilities but also for his character. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching him multiple times throughout his high school journey, and each time he’s proven to be a model of consistency and excellence. As an athlete, Torin excels in everything he puts his mind to on the field, demonstrating natural talent and a strong work ethic.

What truly sets Torin apart is his demeanor. He is a quiet leader, one who doesn’t need to be the loudest in the room to make a big impact. He leads by example, always considerate and respectful of those around him. Whether it’s helping a classmate without being asked or simply showing kindness in his interactions, Torin embodies what it means to be a great student and a great person. It’s been a privilege to watch him grow over the years, and I have no doubt that his future is bright.~ Mrs. Line

Torin is a great student athlete. He displays qualities needed to succeed in both areas. He is dedicated, driven, organized, and works exceptionally hard at tasks he is challenged with. He also is a leader among his fellow classmates and team mates. In whatever Torin does after high school he will be a success and contribute in many ways to society.~ Mr. Sandberg

I am impressed each day by everything that Cooper brings to our FHS atmosphere. His work ethic and integrity show up in every activity he's involved in, and it’s clear that he's had an impact amongst his classmates and our student body by being a strong leader on the field and on the ice- and more importantly in our hallways and classrooms. Anyone that is lucky enough to know Cooper can see he genuinely cares about our school, our community, and the pride in being a Bronco that comes along with that. He is the first to recognize others and give them credit over himself, and is always humble about his accomplishments. Cooper is truly a role model to SO many young Broncos, and his charisma makes others want to get involved and be leaders too. He has made a huge difference in our school community during his time at FHS.~ Mrs. Hamers

I have had the opportunity to have Cooper in my concurrent enrollment classes the last two years. In this time I have observed a very talented young man. He is a true student athlete. He performs at the highest level on the field as well as in the classroom. Beyond athletics and academics he also is truly great individual. He is polite, caring, dedicated and a true leader. He is an ambassador for our school today as well in the future.~ Mr. Sandberg

Congratulations to the International Falls Bowling Team! The Bronco Bowling team finished 2nd out of 26 class A teams to qualify for the State Tournament in St Paul Park on Nov 23rd.

Watch the announcements for details on a team send-off this upcoming week! We hope to capture a team photo as we celebrate their accomplishments!

Shop online or in-person! Every dollar earned helps our school!

Here's how:

Falls High School recently rolled out a new digital pass system called SmartPass. This pass system streamlines school operations by enabling real-time tracking of students, reducing disruptions, and minimizing tardiness. With instant pass approvals and detailed usage logs, it enhances accountability, improves attendance monitoring, and promotes timely returns to class. By identifying behavior patterns like frequent absences or extended breaks, schools can address issues proactively. Additionally, this system strengthens campus security, and fosters a more organized and efficient learning environment. While we are still getting used to this new system and working to refine the process, students and staff are having fun trying it out and exploring the many features.

6th Grade students in Señora Christianson's class have been working on the topic, "Making Your Voice Heard". They have been reading, discussing and reflecting on the messages sent about ourselves and our community through writing, art, music, social media and behavior. The last lesson was on selfies and self-portraits. Students created their Self-Portrait Picasso Style, peers walked through the art exposition and critiqued two of their favorite pieces of art by guessing what 6th grade artists wanted others to know about them. What a fun and engaging way to learn!

A committee of teachers is working to re-establish PBIS~ Positive Behavior Incentives and Supports. PBIS is an approach schools use to improve student behavior, creating a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment. By teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors, PBIS helps students understand expectations, feel supported, and engage more actively in their learning. This approach reduces disruptions, boosts academic focus, and builds a strong, respectful school culture where all students can thrive. Recognizing positive behaviors will include providing special privileges (for example, a preferred parking spot) as well as items that students may find useful. Teachers and staff will also be recognized for their support and participation in this positive schoolwide initiative.

Bronco Power is ....PROUD, OPTIMISTIC, WELCOMING, ENGAGED, RESPECTFUL! #broncopride#broncopower#broncofamily

Spanish students have been learning about the different traditions around the Latin American holiday known as "The Day of The Dead." To Latin Americans, this can be compared to Memorial Day.

• Students have made clay Calaveritas, (sugar skulls) which later will be a character in a story.
• Conversation is an important piece of language learning, Spanish students have daily activities to practice listening and speaking.

Señora Christianson shared how much she enjoys supporting and guiding her students in learning a new language as they practice conversations in Spanish.

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) Tuesdays 3:20-4:20

Before School Extra Credit/Science ~ Ms. Jaksa Room 121 M-F

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!

For more information, stop in the counseling office.

I teach high school social studies from 8th to 11th grades. This is my 3rd year teaching at ISD361 and my 7th year teaching overall. I graduated from Falls High School in 2013 and went to Bemidji State University for my undergraduate degree. I am currently attending BSU to obtain my masters degree in teaching. I enjoy hunting, fishing, watching sports, and playing video games. The thing I like most about teaching at Falls High School is the community and relationships that I am able to build with students, parents, and staff.

About me:

I’ve been a Bronco at heart since my exchange student experience when I was 15 yrs old. During this experience I made new friends and I met my future husband. Everything in Northern MN was new to me, weather, food, sports, school, and outdoor activities. I left with wonderful memories of a very welcoming and kind community. I graduated and continued my college education in Peru.

My husband Todd and I got married in Peru 27 years ago, we decided to start our family here. Int’l Falls has been home since.

I continued my education as we raised our four children. I have been working in our district for 21 years wearing many hats, and I love the relationships I’ve made through each one.

I’m an English teacher for multilingual students, a Spanish teacher, and a Reading teacher. It is a privilege to be a teacher in the same school where I was once a student, and to serve in the same community that welcomed me as a young teen.

What I love about teaching are the opportunities to connect not only with students, teachers, paraprofessionals,secretaries, custodians and other school workers but with our community. I’m passionate about continuing a generation of people who care for each other, being exemplary citizens.

My favorite pastime is spending time with my family. Any activity is great when I’m with my family, watching my kids participate in whatever they love to do, traveling, playing board games, playing with our new puppy Oso, listening to music, dancing, doing arts and crafts, being out on the lake, cooking, eating, etc.

Interesting things:

I speak English, French and Spanish fluently. I understand Italian and Portuguese very well. I know a few words and phrases in Quechua and Aymara.

My family and I hiked the Huayna Picchu (Stairs of Death, 750 stone steps, 8,885 ft above sea level) in Machu Picchu, Cusco. I don’t know that I’d venture for it again!

Some of my indoor plants are 24 years old. I’m always looking for new plants.

I love to watch boxing matches. My husband and my oldest son enjoy boxing too.

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