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Last week's spring break vacation in Mexico certainly took an unexpected turn that challenged me in ways I never could have anticipated. When our van driver inexplicably pulled off the road for a 20-minute nap mid-journey, stranding my family and six strangers on the side of the road. I initially felt a surge of frustration and panic. However, as the minutes ticked by, I made a conscious decision to embrace the situation rather than fight against it. I took some deep breaths and struck up conversations with our fellow passengers. To my surprise, the shared experience quickly dissolved any initial awkwardness, and we bonded over small talk and travel stories. By the time the driver woke up from his nap, spirits were high, and the group dynamic had totally transformed. What could have been a frustrating delay turned into a valuable lesson in going with the flow and giving people the benefit of the doubt. I saw firsthand how choosing patience and optimism, even in trying circumstances, can uncover unexpected silver linings. The drive that followed overflowed with laughter and newfound camaraderie—a bright spot I will always cherish from a vacation that veered off course. Most importantly, I was reminded that plans rarely unfold perfectly, and that's okay. It's how we respond in those moments of uncertainty that defines the experience and can turn strangers into friends. I am thinking that the weather this weekend will provide all of us an opportunity to practice the lessons I learned over spring break. Thank you for choosing to be part of our school family!

Mar. 26: Secure Drill

Mar. 29: No School

Apr. 1: No School for Students/Staff Grading, Parent Communication, Content Development

Apr. 2: Spring Book Fair 9am-6pm - Sign-Up to Volunteer Below!
Apr. 3: Spring Book Fair 9am-6pm - Sign-Up to Volunteer Below!
Apr. 4: Spring Book Fair 9am-6pm - Sign-Up to Volunteer Below!

Apr. 18: 2024-2025 Kindergarten Round Up for Incoming Kindergarten 6-7pm

Apr. 25: 4th Grade Concert at Centennial Middle School 7pm

Apr. 29: PTO Meeting 6:30pm

Top 10 students who master the most number of langauge arts skills at the end of the contest will win a Pizza Party with Mr. Hartmann and a lucky teacher. I heard Bluey might even make a visit to our pizza party! Contest ends on Monday, March 25 at 6:00 PM

Reading: Grade 3-5

• Tuesday, April 16th & Wednesday, April 17th

Math: Grade 3-5

• Tuesday, April 23rd & Wednesday, April 24th

Science - Grade 5 only

• Tuesday, April 30th

Blue Heron will be hosting an in-person Scholastic Book Fair on Tuesday 4/2 - Thursday 4/4 in the Media Center. Hours are 9am-6pm. Book lists will be sent home with each student to explore some of the many book options that will be available to purchase at the Fair.

When can students purchase books?

Each classroom will be assigned a date/time during school hours to visit & purchase from the Fair. Students can also come with an adult after school hours until 6pm. Parents/Guardians/Grandparents can stop in at any time throughout the Fair hours to view/purchase. Credit cards are accepted.

How can students purchase?

Students can bring money from home. Please note a sales tax is applied on all items & students will likely have change (a zip lock bag is helpful). Parents also have the option to put funds on a students' digital eWallet. Any leftover funds on eWALLETs cannot be returned, but will be saved for future Fairs. Use the link below to access & add to your student's eWALLET:

https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/bf/blueheronelementaryschool2

We need YOUR help!

In order to host this event and make it successful we need volunteers! Please consider volunteering via the link below. Shifts are 2 hours max and consist of checking out books at the register, helping students find books, & organizing inventory

Planning for the next school year begins very soon. If you are moving or not returning to Blue Heron Elementary for the 2024-2025 school year, please call the office at 763-792-6200. Thank you!

Silent Auction is Back!

The PTO is bringing back the Silent Auction for this year's Family Fun Night and we need your help!

Please look for a flyer sent home with students today for information on ways you can help out and donate to grade level baskets.

Grade Level Basket Themes

Preschool: Animals & Pets

Kindergarten: Summer & Beach Fun

1st Grade: Game Night / Family Fun / Arts & Crafts

2nd Grade: STEM Activities / Nerf & Lego

3rd Grade: Gift Cards

4th Grade: Sports & Outdoors (Camping / Grilling / Bonfires)

5th Grade: Entertainment / Night Out / Around Town

Donations are being collected from Tuesday, April 2nd - Friday, April 12th

Thank you in advance for all your help and donations!

Blue Heron Elementary will practice the Safety Response Protocol, Secure, on Tuesday, March 26. Additional safety information, including information on the protocols and guidance for families, can be found on the Centennial website. Please contact me if you have any questions.

by Olivia

Read on about a fantastic opportunity you shouldn't miss... You can donate your no longer used eyeglasses to help people of all ages who can't get any glasses to help their poor vision. You can be the person to help someone get the glasses they need to have a better life.

People who need glasses but don't have the resources to get the glasses they need have trouble learning at school or performing at their jobs. These people wish they could see better, and with your help, their wish will come true. Donating your no longer used eyeglasses can help one person, maybe more. What you will do with your donation shows you care about people who can't get eyeglasses. Donating that pair of old eyeglasses to someone in need gives people a new opportunity in their life.

Mr. Gutbrod's Grade 5 class and the Circle-Lex Lions' Club are working together with you to get those needed eyeglasses to people in developing countries. This is an opportunity you should think about participating in this year.

Please send your no longer used eyeglasses to Blue Heron Elementary c/o Mr. Gutbrod's Grade 5 Classroom. We'll do the rest. By taking the time to do this, you are making wishes come true. Thank you.

Order your 2023-2024 yearbook today. The yearbook cost is $22. See below for order information.

The Summer Activity Guide opens for registration March 25 at 8 am! Preview a copy of the Summer Activity Guide online March 23.

Raptors of Minnesota (family/all ages)

Meet some of Minnesota’s most fascinating birds of prey including live hawks and owls in this presentation held in the Little Theater of Centennial Elementary. This activity takes place on Tuesday, May 14.

Here’s what’s happening soon:

Mar. 29- DASH Multi-Sport Non-School Day Camp (gr. K-5)

Apr. 6- RevSports Basketball (ages 2-9)

RevSports Ninja Warrior (ages 2-9)

Apr. 7- Cougar Soccer Academy (gr. K-7)

Apr. 8- DASH After-School Track & Field Camp (gr. K-5)

After School Youth Soccer (gr. K-5)

Apr. 20- Tenicity Parent/Child Beginner Tennis (ages 5-12 with adult)

Apr. 23- Skyhawks Baseball Camp (ages 8-12)

Apr. 27- Cougar Cup Soccer (gr. K-6)

May 6- DASH After School Baseball Camp (gr. K-5)

Go online to view all activities and to register, communityed.isd12.org.

Welcome to the Digital Backpack, the district’s central posting place for community flyers. If you have questions regarding these programs, please contact the organizations directly. Browse the Digital Backpack.

Email: apalmsteen@isd12.org
Website: www.isd12.org/schools/elementary-schools/blue-heron-elementary
Location: 405 Elm Street, Lino Lakes, MN, USA
Phone: 763.792.6200