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November 1st marked the end of our first quarter at school. I can't believe it is completed! On Friday, October 25th the teachers and I attended a diocesan in-service in Chippewa Falls. We started the day with mass at St. Charles Borromeo Church and finished the rest of the day at McDonell Middle School. We began with a prayer that I would like to share:

Sophie Grimm, a proud alumna of St. Francis School and the Ellsworth High School Class of 2006, has built a vibrant life and career in Chicago as a performer in both music and theatre. This spring, she’ll take on a new role off-stage as well—she’s set to marry her sweetheart in May 2025!

Mrs. Liza Chatt joined St. Francis School in December 2007, answering an ad in the newspaper for a teacher’s assistant position. Since then, she has become an integral part of our school community, working as an interventionist and classroom assistant.

It’s hard to believe that over eight weeks have passed since we kicked off the school year in late August. A lot has happened in that time! One of the most significant changes has been the implementation of a new math curriculum, enVision Mathematics. Our staff has been diligently exploring the many resources it offers and customizing them to meet the needs of each classroom.

We are excited to feature Reed Olson, son of Todd and Angie Olson, in this month’s alumni spotlight! After completing his education at St. Francis School in 2012 and graduating from Ellsworth High School in 2019, Reed went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Winona State University.

Meet Mrs. Melanie Anderson, one of the dedicated and energetic Classroom Aides here at St. Francis School. With a background in Agricultural Engineering from UW-River Falls, Mrs. Anderson’s journey to St. Francis School was unexpected but serendipitous.

My administrative philosophy is centered on supporting our teachers. I believe that if I help my teachers grow professionally and provide them with the tools they need, they will, in turn, take care of our students. Teaching is more than a career—it’s a calling. Our teachers aren’t in this profession for wealth or ease; they are here because they are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children, just as a teacher once made a difference in theirs.

We are excited to feature Olivia Matzek, daughter of Ken and Amy Matzek, in this month’s alumni spotlight! After graduating from St. Francis School in 2011 and Ellsworth High School in 2018, Olivia pursued a career in healthcare by attending Winona State University, where she earned her degree in Nursing. Following college, she began her nursing career at Mayo Clinic in Rochester working in post-surgery for Mayo Clinic Otolaryngology (ENT).

We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Haylee Yaeger to the St. Francis School family as our new 2nd-grade teacher! A recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Stout, Ms. Yaeger holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and is certified to teach from birth through 3rd grade. She is well-equipped to provide her students with a strong educational foundation during these formative years.

As we enter the summer break, the staff and I are eagerly anticipating some well-deserved time for reflection. We'll celebrate our victories and set challenges for ourselves, seeking areas where we can enhance our performance.

As the class of 2024 prepares to embark on the next exciting chapter of their lives, we take a moment to reflect on their journey from the halls of St. Francis School Elementary to the promising futures that lie ahead. These students, who once filled our classrooms with their curiosity and enthusiasm, are now poised to take on new challenges and opportunities.

We're honored to feature our dedicated fifth-grade teacher here at St. Francis School, Ms. Kylie Hanley. Ms. Hanley's journey to becoming an educator is deeply rooted in her desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. 

I wanted to take a moment to share with you a heartwarming experience that occurred during Mass a couple of weeks ago involving our school children, which left a profound impact on me as both a parent and an administrator.

We're thrilled to shine the spotlight on Hannah Radkey, a distinguished graduate of St. Francis School. Since her days at St. Francis, Hannah has exemplified the values instilled in her during her formative years, setting a remarkable path for herself. 

We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on one of our exceptional educators, Ms. Kailey Brenner, our dedicated fourth-grade teacher. Ms. Brenner's journey into teaching is rooted in her lifelong passion for education, nurtured by her experiences as a student here at St. Francis School.

As we approach the culmination of Lent in our liturgical calendar, I am heartened to witness the fervent engagement of our students in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

Meet Ms. Holly Andres, our dedicated 3rd-grade teacher at St. Francis School. Ms. Andres brought her passion for fostering a love of learning to St. Francis School this year after previously teaching 5th grade at Amery Public School.

Our commitment to nurturing the whole child – mind, body, and spirit – goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. The values instilled in our students, grounded in the teachings of Christ, empower them to become compassionate, responsible, and ethical individuals.

Jillian's story is a testament to the profound impact of Catholic education, shaping not only her academic and professional achievements but also her deep-rooted faith and commitment to sharing the gospel.

In her 39th year of teaching, Mrs. Dawn Koch reflects on a remarkable journey at St. Francis School. Her passion for teaching began early, with a bedroom chalkboard and "lessons" for her little sister. Mrs. Koch graduated from UW-River Falls with Preschool, Kindergarten, and Grades 1-8 certification.