Education

Newly Funded Program Helping Families

The Healthy Families America Program provides services for at-risk families.

CLOQUET, Minn.-  A 2.1 million dollar award is helping families receive in-home help with pregnancy and parenting. The Healthy Families America Program provides services for first-time mothers, at-risk families such as parents dealing with domestic abuse, substance abuse or those dealing with mental illness.  Through the program, medical professionals visit family’ homes providing practical health services and parenting support. “It’s working…

School Board Chairman says November Referendum Vote is Crucial

The vote happens on November 6th.

DULUTH, Minn.- A three question levy referendum is in place that would add both teachers and new technology to the Duluth school district if approved by voters in November. The School Board Chairman calls this vote crucial. If passed question one would renew the current ten-year operating levy without increasing property taxes. The second question would add 25 teachers to help…

Tips to Avoid Back-to-School Budget Busters

Local Financial Professional Barry Bigelow Offers Tips to Back-to-School Shopping

DULUTH, Minn. – Pens, pencils and notebooks are just the tip of the icebery for families stocking up on back-to-school supplies. Every year, surprise budget busters catch shoppers off guard and cost them cash. That’s why local financial professional Barry Bigelow with Great Waters Financial is offering tips to save on your back-to-school buys. 1. Technology • Parents are shelling…

What Are You Going to Do With All That Poo?

Animal Allies Humane Society is Looking for Community Input and Ideas When it Comes to Composting Animal Waste

DULUTH, Minn. – With the power of reasoning and a grant from the Northland Foundation, Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth could soon become more sustainable. Youth allies with the shelter recently noticed a big problem, and now, they’re looking to spread the news when it comes to composting “number two.” “They saw a problem and we decided that we…

Welcome to Duluth, UMD Students

Over 2,200 new students are moving into the University of Minnesota Duluth dorms for the first time.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth welcomes students who attend the University of Minnesota Duluth back to the Northland. Those students make a large impact on Duluth and their return is creating a lot of energy and excitement on campus. “It’s always been something that’s been so far away and now it’s here so it’s weird,” UMD freshman Riley Campion said. Over 2,200 new…

Cooper Elementary Construction Resumes After April Fire

Cooper Elementary and Superior High School Renovations Expected to be Complete by 2019 School Year

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Superior School District is starting the academic year with some major construction projects, including at Cooper Elementary. The new school was supposed to open this fall but a fire and explosion delayed that by a year. In April, Cooper Elementary School was ninety percent done. The fire destroyed much of the progress and crews have been…

UMD Political Science Professor Weighs in on Tuesday’s Primary Election

Primary Elections are Taking Place in Minnesota and Wisconsin Tuesday, August 14; Polls Close at 8:00 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday, August 14, residents in Minnesota and Wisconsin have the chance to make their voice heard during the 2018 Primary Election. Tuesday morning, Cindy Rugeley, UMD Associate Professor of Political Science, gave her insight on the importance of the primary election. Races up for grabs include Governor, Congress, Senate, Attorney General and many more local races….

Getting Groovy with Ely’s Spiritwood “Forget Me Not” Foundation

The Spiritwood Foundation is set to Host Their Next Performance, "Remember When, A Musical Happening," August 17, 18

ELY, Minn. – The Spiritwood ‘Forget Me Not’ Foundation is committed to supporting organizations that enhance the quality of life of those afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. Their efforts are aimed at the many concerns and worries of family members and caregivers, and their focus is on the dignity of each individual. From their popular “Remember…

Maple School District to Host Supplies Drive Saturday

Community Members in the Maple School District Have Decided to Host a Community Supply Drive for Students and Staff

POPLAR, Wisc. – Folks in the Maple School District have rallied together over the past two weeks in preparation for a school supply drive ahead of the 2018/2019 school year. “Pencils for Pupils” will take place in Poplar, Wisconsin on Saturday, August 11. The event is being held at the Gravel Pit Tavern in Poplar. There will be a band, bouncy house,…

Northland Trio Looks to Help Animals with PJ’s Rescue

In This Week's Animal Answers, Meet a Trio of Ladies Looking to Spread Love and Compassion with PJ's Rescue

DULUTH, Minn. – A Northland trio recently formed together with the hope of giving dogs from Texas a second chance at life. Founder Tina Marcella says PJ’s Rescue was started out of a desire to rescue more dogs from the southern state. Marcella and two other founders all have dogs that were rescued from Texas, and want to encourage others to…

Local Library Could Help You Track Your Ancestry

Organizers tell us tracking your ancestry through a book can be easier than online.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Have you ever tried to track your family tree? The Superior Public Library now has the “Mayflower Families Through Five Generations” these 30 volumes have the stories and names of those that traveled on the Mayflower. Organizers tell us tracking your ancestry through a book can be easier than online, which typically requires many forms of identification. “With these books,…

Buzzing for Bees This Weekend in Carlton

The Inaugural Honey Bee Folk Festival is Happening Friday, August 3 - Saturday, August 4 at the Oldenburg House in Carlton

CARLTON, Minn. – The inaugural Honey Bee Folk Festival begins Friday, August 3 and will run through Saturday, August 4 with fun for the whole family. On Friday, the honey bee folk festival will kick off at 3:00 p.m. with a pronouncement from the Mayor of Carlton and the Carlton City Council. The officials will state the City of Carlton…

Back-to-School Tech Ideas

Verizon Wireless Offers a Few Back-to-School Tech Items That Can Help Make Your School Life Easier

DULUTH, Minn. – When it comes to back-to-school shopping, it can be boring to buy backpacks, notebooks, pencils and other supplies. That’s why the staff at Verizon Wireless are looking to brighten your list as school shopping ramps up and summer vacation winds down. Solutions Specialist Tayler Miller stopped by FOX 21 Local News to offer a few gadgets to get…

Duluth Elks, Volunteers Teaching Kids to Fish

Teaching Kids to Fish is Happening Saturday, July 28 at Boulder Lake

DULUTH, Minn. – Happening Saturday, July 28, more than 50 children from across the Northland will take part in a fun-filled day of events at Boulder Lake near Duluth. The Duluth Elks #133 along with many local sponsors and volunteers will help take kids fishing, some, for the first time in their life. The group partners with youth centers across…

Hustle to Duluth Marshall Saturday Morning

The Third Annual Hilltop Hustle is Happening Saturday, July 21 Starting at 7:30 a.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – School’s out for the summer, but Duluth Marshall is heating up this Saturday, July 21. This is the school’s reunion weekend, and many activities are planned. At 7:30 a.m., registration will open for the 3rd Annual Hilltop Hustle 5k obstacle fun run. Seven different obstacles including an inflatable obstacle course will be on site. Participants will be…

Sand Castles, Water Safety Lessons Take Over Park Point Beach

The Annual Water Safety Expo is Happening Thursday, July 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Park Point Beach

DULUTH, Minn. – Northlanders have the chance to take part in the Annual Park Point Sand Modeling Contest and Summer Beach Bash on Thursday, July 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event will also include a Water Safety Expo. All the fun will take place at the Park Point Beach House. The event is free and open to…

Wild Summer Fun with Spirit Mountain Camps

Spirit Mountain in Duluth Offers a Wide Range of Summer Camps for All Ages

DULUTH, Minn. – Summer is now in full swing, and many are enjoying time off from school or work by experiencing new adventures for the first time at Spirit Mountain in Duluth. Executive Director Brandy Ream says whether your a child or an adult, there’s a camp for you to take part in. Camps are offered on the mountain bike trails…

What it Takes to Compete in 4H

The St. Louis County Fair is a big event for 4H showmen.

PROCTOR, Minn.- County fairs are underway in the Twin Ports and 4H is a big part of it all, teaching students how to raise livestock and perform. These County Fairs are the big show for the animal caretakers, it’s the time they get to show off all their hard work after training animals one–on–one to perform, this weekend is the…

Animal Answers: Teaching with Touch at Great Lakes Aquarium

Great Lakes Aquarium Unveiled their New Touchpools on Memorial Day Weekend; the Attraction is Increasing in Popularity

DULUTH, Minn. – Some say seeing is believing, but at the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth, touching is teaching. On Memorial Day weekend, the Aquarium unveiled three touchpools for the public to visit, including horseshow crabs, sharks, jelly fish and more. The Great Lakes Aquarium is open Monday – Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Click here to learn more information….

Active Adventures: Safely Lighting Fireworks

KG Fireworks Warehouse on the South Range Offers Safety Classes

SOUTH RANGE, Wisc. — KG Fireworks Warehouse teaches us how to safely light fireworks in this weeks active adventures. From a slow burn safety fuse to home made quick and easy stands, to help make your fireworks experience a safe and memorable one. Join Meteorologist Brittney Merlot and Owner Jason Detherage of KG Fireworks for tips. Safety classes are also…

St. Luke’s Dietitian Offers Summer Food Safety Tips

St. Luke's Clinical Dietitian Mary Cherne Offers Important Tips to Remember When Preparing Your Summer BBQ

DULUTH, Minn. – Independence Day falls on a Wednesday this year and many folks will be firing up the grill to help celebrate, but St. Luke’s in Duluth says it’s important to remember a few simple safety tips when it comes to setting out your favorite picnic foods. Monday morning, St. Luke’s Clinical Dietitian Mary Cherne stopped by FOX 21…

UMD’s Land Lab Named Top Five in the Nation

UMD's Land Lab is officially the fifth best college farm according to Best Value Schools.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Land Lab at the University of Minnesota Duluth is officially ranked one of the top college farms in the country. UMD’s Land Lab is officially the fifth best college farm according to Best Value Schools. The farm stretches over 30 acres and is ran by over a thousand students every year. Fruits and vegetables grown on the…

“Break the Chain” for Cancer Research this Sunday

The Event is Hosted by the University of Minnesota Medical School and College Pharmacy, Duluth Campus

DULUTH, Minn. – Happening Sunday, June 24, The University of Minnesota Medical School and College of Pharmacy, Duluth Campus join the “chain” of community groups in the fight against cancer. The University of Minnesota Medical School and College of Pharmacy on the Duluth Campus have joined the Chainbreaker event for the second year. One-hundred percent of the proceeds goes toward…

Coffee Conversation: Summer Food Access Program

The Summer Food Access Program is Organized by the Duluth Area Family YMCA

  The Duluth Area Family YMCA is once again participating in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), providing students across the community with nutritious meals while school is out. Organizers say meals will be provided to all enrolled children (18 years of age and younger) without charge. Meals will be provided on a first come, first serve basis at the sites…

Superior School Bus Drivers Upset with District Changes

The bus drivers don't want to sign any contracts until they can talk with the incoming superintendent.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Bus drivers with the Superior School District are slamming the brakes on the district’s changes to operations. The changes involve where the buses are stored overnight and new non-breakable one–year work contracts. Emotions were high as bus drivers sounded off to Superior School District Superintendent Jana Stevens on Thursday. More than two dozen bus drivers showed up to…

Planning for the Ultimate Vacation: Retirement

Finanical Advisor Barry Bigelow says Planning for Retirement Requires More Planning than Your Annual Family Vacations

DULUTH, Minn. – Summer is in full gear and for many, that means traveling the country and taking some much-needed time off. But if you’re like many Americans, there’s a good chance you’ve spent more time planning this summer’s getaway than you have planning your ultimate vacation; retirement. Great Waters Financial Lead Advisor Barry Bigelow says retirement planning requires just…

Little Library Opens at Great Lakes Elementary School

Free book exchange encourages kids to keep reading in the summer

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A new little library is encouraging kids to read all summer. The PTA at Great Lakes Elementary School set up the book exchange outside the front doors of the school. Kids biking by can take a book and donate a book they’ve already read for another kid to enjoy. Parents and school officials hope the new resource…

Proctor Middle School Students Host Fundraiser for International Trip

PROCTOR, Minn. – Students from Proctor Middle School are raising money for their London, England trip in October 2018. After submitting personal essays and receiving teacher recommendation letters, students were selected to represent their school and community on this exciting travel adventure. The students will visit historical sites such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and more. As…

Duluth Teacher Deemed Negligent After Two Kindergarten Students Locked Outside of School

The mother of one of the students involved tells us mistakes happen but not being truthful is another story.

DULUTH, Minn.- A teacher with the Duluth School District is under investigation and on unpaid leave after two kindergarten students were accidentally locked outside in the cold. The incident happened in January 2017, at Congdon Park Elementary School. The mother of one of the students involved tells us mistakes happen but not being truthful is another story. The Minnesota Department of…

Vikings, U.S. Bank Help Fund Rec Center At Stowe Elementary

DULUTH, Minn.-  The new recreation center is currently being built in New Gary Duluth right outside Stowe Elementary School, which got a huge boost from U.S. Bank and the Minnesota Vikings in the form of a $50,000 grant. The funds will go toward a new sports court, which students celebrated with the team on Monday, including Vikings mascot Victor and…

Duluth Library Summer Reading Program Starts Today

DULUTH, Minn. – The summer reading program at the Duluth Public Library is beginning today. Kids and teens can log reading time to earn small prizes and a free book of their choice at the 20-hour mark. They may also be entered into grand prize drawings for Barnes & Noble or Visa gift cards. Participating adults will be entered into…

Piedmont Panthers Receive Graduation Surprise from Overseas

Piedmont Kindergartener Zach Ault Dealt with Emotional Struggles After His Mom was Deployed in January, 2018

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s estimated more than 1.3 million children in the United States are currently living with a parent who is serving overseas in the military. Everyday events happen, memories are made and often one parent is forced to miss out. But thanks to today’s technology, three students at Piedmont Elementary in Duluth has the surprise of a lifetime…

Wisconsin Students Grow Spinach in High Tunnel Greenhouse

UW-Extension Offers Opportunity For Learning and Job Experience

WASHBURN, Wis. – For the past two years, the UW-Extension has been working with Washburn High School to see how high tunnel to see how high tunnel greenhouses can help with growing produce all year. “I’ve learned that spinach is pretty hearty,” said ninth-grade student Seth Johnson, “we’ve been testing different heats, different soils, to see what makes it grow…

New Rip Current Warning Signal Unveiled

The New Rip Current Warning Signal Flag is Located on the South Pier Near the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge

DULUTH, Minn. – Staff at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center in Duluth recently applied for funds from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to add a rip current signal flag on Corps property near the Aerial Lift Bridge. On Wednesday, the new signal flag was unveiled with a ceremony including staff from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and…

Local Authors, Characters, to Read to Kids to Encourage Educational Success

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend Northland children will get to hear from local authors and characters as part of a “Super Sweet Story Time.” This is a day-long reading event hosted by A Sweet Event and Legacy Toys. According to the owner of A Sweet Event, Peter Cpin, reading is the single most significant factor to influence a child’s early…

The True Meaning of Memorial Day

Captain of Duluth Honor Guard, John Marshall, Shares the Importance of Memorial Day, West Duluth Memorial Day Parade

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a holiday many use to grill, connect with family and friends or travel to kick off the summer season. But for Captain of the Duluth Honor Guard John Marshall, Memorial Day is a time to educate and share knowledge of why we honor the day annually. Marshall says it’s important to honor Memorial Day every day, not…

Starbase Celebrates First School Year

The classroom is a whole new experience for children who learn to program rovers and create real-world architectural design.

DULUTH, Minn.- Some Northland students are experiencing what its like to be a scientist through a program called Starbase, which is celebrating the end of its first school year program. The classroom is a whole new experience for children who learn to program rovers and create real-world architectural design. The Starbase program operates on the base of the 148th Fighter…

Students Learn How to Leave No Trace on the Trails

Leave no trace is a set of principles to help enjoy the outdoors sustainably.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Great Outdoors took over Congdon Park Elementary School as students learn how to preserve our forests. The Superior National Forest’s educational outreach program aims to inspire students to enjoy our trails but also know the proper etiquette. The gym transformed into a mock boundary waters campsite at Congdon Elementary School. “We want kids to care about the environment…

Tutors Needed in the Northland

Duluth needs 52 tutors for the upcoming school year starting this fall.

DULUTH, Minn.- Elementary schools in the Northland are in need for more math and reading tutors, this comes after students are struggling at higher class levels such as algebra. Duluth needs 52 tutors for the upcoming school year starting this fall. Full-time and part-time tutors are being recruited by AmeriCorps. Educators say the preschool level has the largest demand for…

Twin Ports Residents Peddle Forth on National Bike to Work Day

National Bike to Work Day Events in Duluth and Superior are Organized by the Zeitgeist Center for Arts and Community

DULUTH, Minn. – You may have noticed a few extra bicyclists on the road during your commute across the Twin Ports Friday. It was all to celebrate National Bike to Work Day. It’s a common sight year round throughout many communities in the Northland; bikers strapping on helmets and raising kickstands no matter how cold it gets. “It’s a perfect…

Time to Register for Summer Camp at Animal Allies

Staff at Animal Allies Humane Society Advise Signing up for Summer Camp Sooner Rather than Later

DULUTH, Minn. – Just a few days remain before summer camp will be full at Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth. Humane Education Manager Shawna Weaver stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about what your child will take part in during camp. Aside from getting to pet animals and work to make sure they’re happy and healthy on…

Companies to Classrooms Has Been Helping Teachers for Five Years

Organization has a free school supplies store for Northland educators

DULUTH, Minn. – An organization in Duluth has spent five years giving free school supplies to area teachers. Companies to Classrooms recently moved to a new location in the basement of the Old Central High School building. It is a free store filled with new and slightly used items donated by people and businesses to help students’ educational experience. “This…

Lake Superior College Holds 2018 Commencement

More than 700 graduates walked across the DECC Auditorium stage

DULUTH, Minn. – Lake Superior College celebrated their 2018 graduating class at their annual commencement ceremony. More than seven-hundred students walked across the stage at the DECC Auditorium to get their degrees, diplomas, and certificates. As students prepare for the next steps in their lives, family members came to show their support. “We are very proud of her. Very proud….

Congdon Students Continue Getting in Gear

Rainy Weather Postponed Bike, Walk to School Day for Students at Congdon Park Elementary; Event Continues to Grow

DULUTH, Minn. – Back in 1997 students, staff and parent organizers took part in the first ever National Walk to School Day. In 2012, National Bike to School Day became a reality. The day technically happened on Wednesday, May 9 this year, but due to rainy, cold weather in the Northland, students held off to celebrate until the following day….

Olympic Curling Team Tells Their Story to Middle School Students

The Gold Medal athletes inspired kids to follow their dreams

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Members of the gold medal winning U.S. Olympic Curling Team shared their stories with middle school students in Duluth and Superior. The curlers shared their Olympic journey and their inspiring stories of growing up in the Northland and achieving their dreams. John Shuster, John Landsteiner, and Joe Polo spoke to hundreds of students at Superior Middle School….

Educators Celebrated on Teacher Appreciation Day

One Local Business Giving Away Books to Teachers

DULUTH, Minn.-Throughout the country today, teachers are being celebrated because it’s National Teacher Appreciation Day. Some businesses are giving teachers special deals as a way of saying thank you, including Duluth’s Once Upon a Child, which buys and sells used items for children. The owners say they have a special appreciation for educators, due to a family connection to teaching….

LSC Firefighting Students Complete Hands-on Training

After the '14 Hour Shift' second year students graduate from the program

DULUTH, Minn. – There is a big demand for firefighters across the nation. Lake Superior College firefighting students took their training to another level today before trying to find jobs in the competitive field. Firefighting students at LSC completed their ’14 Hour Shift’ Monday. The training puts together everything they’ve learned throughout the year and asks them to use it…