Newsletters (NWSISD) NWSISD newsletter - June 2014 | Page 4

Grape-ology at RMS-CES Three years ago, students at Rockford Middle School Center for Environmental Studies (RMS-CES) were introduced to a refractometer and measured “sugar bricks” in grape juice. Who thought they would be harvesting grapes and making grape jelly today? With the help of Rockford resident, Mr. Chuck Tyron, students experimented to see what conditions were best to grow grape cuttings. They varied the soil, temperature, water and tried rooting hormone to grow the cuttings. And low and behold, 23 plants grew the first year. Another Rockford resident helped to cultivate a garden and students collaborated with the district’s Buildings and Grounds Director to figure out irrigation needs. ! As trellises were assembled and bunch pruning discussed, the summer heat worked it’s magic and by the 3rd week of school this year, RMS students harvested a bushel and a half of grapes. With a little help from a friend, students made 3 1/2 gallons of their own grape jelly and even took some home to share. ! Students are hoping for a record crop again this year and have been watching with anticipation to see which buds survived our harsh winter. Step-Up Boys Mentorship Program had a busy year! Grade 11 Step-Up Boys attended the Minnesota College Fair in September to start the process of applying for colleges! Students attended workshops for financial aid, writing application essays and how to compare college options. ! Students also had the opportunity to participate in a business shadow day at Best Buy headquarters in Richfield, MN in February. Students engaged in a lively conversation with Best Buy staff along with Logistics Director Lonnie Humphrey about marketing strategies, the stock market, margin analysis, new product lines as well as the hierarchy of leadership. Sixty-one students in grade 9 and 10 visited Second Harvest Heartland in February. After a presentation about hunger and poverty in Minnesota, students assisted with packing over 5,000 lbs of food which will be sent to counties across the state to be distributed at food shelves. Zachary Smith, a 2007 Osseo High School graduate, shared his personal story with the students during lunch. Smith spoke candidly about his high school experience and encouraged students to work hard, stay in school, and respect their teachers. Smith’s postsecondary career choice is barbering. He is the barber to some Minnesota athletes including members of the Timberwolves, Gophers and Vikings. Northwest Suburban Contact Information ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Gretchen Peel Interim Executive Director 763-450-1300 [email protected] Theresa Starkman Education Services Coordinator 763-450-1306 [email protected] Ayenna Davis Multicultural Educational Specialist 763-450-1331 [email protected] Candace Whittaker Family/Community Empowerment Specialist 763-450-1336 [email protected] Krisanthy Sikkila Communications/Magnet Specialist 763-450-1303 [email protected] Sue Anderson Executive Assistant 763-450-1302 [email protected] Linda Ryden Administrative Assistant 763-450-1300 [email protected]