It was 26 years ago when Michael Bakken, a special education physical education teacher, began teaching in St. Cloud Area School District. He became a teacher because of his love for kids. “I was inspired by a physical education teacher many years ago and decided that’s what I wanted to do,” explains Bakken. Happenstance put him … Read more
Venturing into school for the first time poses interesting questions–and answers. During rest time, a little boy whispers to the girl next to him, “Will you marry me?” She flashes him a panicked look and responds,”No, thank you.” Ask any 3-year-old how old he thinks you are, and he will say a number from one … Read more
Students in Mary Peters’ third-grade class are learning math patterns and eagerly raising their hands to identify them reflected on the smart board at Discovery Community School. Next walks in co-teacher, Emma Olesen, and the lesson switches to language arts. Co-teachers Mary Peters and Emma Olesen sit in front of the class to gear up … Read more
On any given morning at Apollo High School during the school year, you will find Mary Schmitz, a special education paraprofessional, and her team of student workers serving coffee and warm cookies at Iggy’s Coffee Shop. “Hi, how are you doing today?” you will be asked, usually by your first name. “How can I help you?” … Read more