Education

Northland College to Close at End of 2024-25 Academic School Year

ASHLAND, Wis. — Northland College Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Wednesday to permanently close the college at the end of the 2024-25 academic school year. The college was founded in 1892, being the first to fully integrate an environmental focus with its liberal arts curriculum. But after it’s 133-year run, officials say the college is closing due to declining…

Students participate in annual winter walk to school day

DULUTH, Minn. — It was a frigid morning for those students participating in the annual winter walk to school day. On Feb. 5, schools across the state of Minnesota encouraged students to walk or bike to school if able, instead of their usual mode of transportation. Congdon Park Elementary was one such school, and had many families who lived close…

‘Climate Future’ Conference at UMD

DULUTH, Minn.– The future climate of Duluth is the center of a two-day public conference at UMD this week. Environmental experts throughout the state of Minnesota are part of the “Climate Future” conference, including the D-N-R, NOAA and ‘the institute of environment’ a U-M-D. Workshops, panel discussions and presentations are all part of the process to engage everyday citizens who…

Pass Program Begins between DTA and Duluth Public Schools

DULUTH, Minn. — High School Students in Duluth have more access to transportation around the city. Duluth Public Schools and the Duluth Transit Authority have partnered to offer all high school students and staff free bus rides through the DTA. This will help give students more ways to get to and from school. There aren’t limits on the passes, so…

‘Catastrophic Failure’ Of Pipe Causes Significant Water Damage At Keewatin Elementary

KEEWATIN, Minn. — A “catastrophic failure” of a pipe Sunday morning caused significant water damage at Keewatin Elementary, forcing the school to be closed through at least Tuesday, Jan. 28, according to Principal Dr. Rae Villebrun. Cafeteria “We are currently working with Service Master, IEA, our custodial/maintenance staff, and insurance company to ensure the building is ready for the students…

Applications Now Open For St. Louis County Sheriff’s Citizens’ Academy

DULUTH, Minn. — The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office has opened registration for its Citizens’ Police Academy. The academy is happening every Tuesday night from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. from March 4 until May 20. The free interactive presentations and tours will show you the inner workings of a dozen departments within the Sheriff’s Office, including the Jail, 911…

Proctor Middle School Principal Named MN’s Principal of The Year

PROCTOR, Minn. — One ‘awesome’ local principal has won the Minnesota Principal of the Year award. Mr. Awsumb at Proctor Middle School didn’t go into the job for winning awards, but spent some time sharing with us the dedication that led to getting that recognition. With a flurry of fist bumps for everyone who passes him, It’s no surprise that…

Duluth School District Budget Reduction Leads to Potential Layoffs

DULUTH, Minn.– Staff layoffs are taking place in the Duluth School District due to budget cuts. Superintendent John Magas says, the budget reduction is caused by pandemic relief funding ending as well as financial challenges, inflation, and rising special education costs. 83-85% of that budget is responsible for salaries and benefits. Over 50 meetings took place to discuss the best course…

Spanish Immersion Program Expands to Meyers-Wilkins Elementary

DULUTH, Minn.– Following the popularity of the Spanish Immersion Program at Lowell Elementary School. Meyer’s Wilkins Elementary is next in line. The Spanish Immersion Program is part of the Duluth Public School’s efforts to help the demand for diverse learning. Right now, this program takes place at Lowell Elementary. Lowell has 325 students enrolled in the program. For Fall of…

Stella Maris Academy Unveils New Science Wing

DULUTH, Minn. — Stella Maris Academy High School has completed phase two in its renovation process, which includes a state of the art science wing. The campus has been undergoing renovations since its purchase four years ago. Phase one in the improvements included remodeling general classrooms, and the now completed phase two consisted of the science wing. A ribbon cutting…

Solar Power Projects in Works at Duluth Public Schools

Duluth Minn — Duluth Public Schools are finalizing plans for two new solar projects on district property. One project will be installed near Lincoln Park Middle School. The other at the school’s district office. The solar power will not only help provide cleaner energy but also helps offset the costs of the energy they currently use. Students assisted in advocating…

Former Hermantown PTO Treasurer Sentenced After Stealing Over $100,000

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — A Hermantown woman has been sentenced after stealing over $100,000 from the Hermantown Parent Teachers Organization (PTO). Trista Swanson, 44, was sentenced to three years of probation on four counts of felony theft. Swanson must also pay back the $103,017.41 that she stole from the PTO. She plead guilty to these charges in October. Swanson was the…

Lake Superior College Awarded $200,000 Grant for Accessibility

DULUTH, Minn.– Lake Superior College has been awarded a $200,000 grant, to help provide continued accessibility for all students. The funds from the 2024 Inclusive Higher Education Grant will be going towards implementing an inclusive higher education program. The program itself is called ‘PACE’. Right now, the money is being used to help map this program out to see how it…

Superior High School Students Create and Sell Christmas Wreaths

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Superior High School Northland Academy students are getting into the holiday spirit by crafting and selling wreaths. For the past 8 years, the Northland Program has been teaching kids all of the steps to creating wreaths. From mapping out a harvesting plan in spring, to putting the wreaths and swag together in the winter. The goal is to…

Lincoln Park Middle School Students Learn About STEM Career Field

DULUTH, Minn. — An event inspiring students to look into a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math field took place on Monday. The Lincoln Park Middle School in Duluth hosted a STEMpathy Career Fair. 6th and 7th graders learned from local professionals about their career paths. Representatives from Essentia and Aspirus-St. Luke’s, a forensic scientist, and different engineering companies were in…

Duluth Public Schools District Reduces Budget by 5 Million Dollars

  DULUTH, Minn.– The Duluth Public School District will be reducing their overall budget by 5 million dollars. There are several reasons for the 2025-2026 school year budget reduction. The end of federal pandemic relief funding, financial challenges, inflation, and rising special education costs are a few. Currently, state funds for education have increased 2 -3% each year. And the…

Superior Schools Referendum Passed

SUPERIOR, Wis.– With the recent elections, a referendum was passed to support Superior schools. The approved 5.5-million-dollar referendum will go toward continuing to cover operational expenses, as well as maintain programs, and keep class sizes low. Superior School District Administrator Dr. Amy Starzecki tells us, the goal with the referendum was to “maintain status quo”. “I think last year was…

WI State Superintendent Tours Cooper Elementary

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Wisconsin State Superintendent Jill Underly took a tour of Cooper Elementary in Superior. This is part of a statewide tour to explain her 2.5 million-dollar 2025-2027 biennial budget. Underly emphasized Cooper Elementary as one of the schools that was able to maintain critical staffing and programs. She is pushing for these opportunities for all Wisconsin schools. With the funding…

2nd Annual Youth Wellness Leadership Summit

SUPERIOR, Wis. — An event encouraging youth to learn more about wellness and mental health took place in Superior on Wednesday. The Northwest Wisconsin Lung Health Alliance hosted its second annual Youth Wellness Leadership Summit. The event took place at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. About 125 middle and high school students participating. The day consisted of breakout sessions and information…

Lake Superior School District Celebrates $44.1 Million Renovations

SILVER BAY, Minn. — A year’s long dream to update William Kelley School in Silver Bay has finally come to fruition. Voters in the Lake Superior School District approved the $44.1 million district improvement plan back in 2021. Updates to learning tools, like interactive white boards, new science equipment and even general infrastructure improvement have been in the works ever…

Results Are In For Ordean East Middle School Mock Election

DULUTH, Minn. — The results are in for a mock election by Ordean East Middle School students. The mock election is a program run with the Secretary of State’s Office. Over 400 schools participated in Minnesota. The whole process included 6th through 8th grade students researching candidates before Election Day to compare issues and determine who they would vote for….

UW-Superior Celebrates 3rd Annual Sonia Kovalevsky Day

SUPERIOR, Wis.– UW-Superior held their 3rd annual Sonia Kovalesky Day to highlight mathematical activities for young girls. 76 girls from schools throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota met today to rotate through workshops, run by mathematics professors. The gathering designed to celebrate Sonia Kovalevsky. The first woman in Europe to receive a PHD. The event is also included career exploration, where students…

Duluth Public Library Hosts Mini Monster Mash

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Public Library hosted a ghoulish party on Thursday. The Mini Monster Mash focuses on kids ages 5 and under. The program includes a dance party, decorating hats and jack-o-lanterns and fun games. But the best part is a costume parade for the young ones to show off their costume and go trick or treating around…

UMD Students Host 2nd Annual Mock Election

DULUTH, Minn. — UMD students are encouraging new voters to make their voice heard come Election Day. The Political Science Association hosted its 2nd annual mock election. It’s a chance for students to see what it looks like to vote but also gives them an opportunity to think about who they’ll vote for ahead of big day. This event highlights…

DECC Hosts Annual MCEA Conference

DULUTH, Minn. — 500 community educators from all over the state gathering at the DECC Wednesday. They got to learn from one another and improve local school districts and communities. The Minnesota Community Education Association meets every year. In 2020, the most recent Duluth conference was cancelled. But now, the DECC is hosting the largest MCEA since the pandemic. Breakout…

UW-Superior Students De-Stress with Therapy Dog

SUPERIOR, Wis. — With the stress that school can bring, what better way to unwind than by spending time with a furry friend! This event is all part of UW-Superior’s monthly de-stress day they’re doing this fall. With having the dog on campus, students are able to learn healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress. In addition, they learn about resources…

Esko High School Hosts Fall Career Fest

ESKO, Minn.– With MEA weekend right around the corner, Esko High School had a day filled with stories, advice, and insight into potential careers! Eleventh graders are able to make personal connections with 22 different members of the work force. Ranging from service members in the National Guard, healthcare workers, employees from Cirrus Aircraft as well as some musicians.  Our…

500 Tutors Needed in Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. — 500 tutors are needed across Minnesota with more than half needed in just rural areas. AmeriCorps tutoring programs are looking to help fill these roles. Potential tutors do not need prior teaching experience, as they will be fully trained for the program. They can work with students individually or in small groups. Fewer than a third of…

UMD Hosts “VoterPalooza” to Encourage Student Voter Registration

DULUTH, Minn.– With every presidential election, there is always a push to get as many registered as possible. And this is especially true with college students. Students packed the halls today at UMD for the VoterPalooza. The goal is to help get students informed and ready for the upcoming election. As well as get them registered to vote right on…

2nd Annual Ralph Zauhar’s Vocational Fair

ALBORN, Minn.– Middle schoolers had the opportunity to learn over 16 different vocational job skills From welding, equestrian skills, to even learning how to drive an excavator. Students from Queen of Peace and homeschooled kids got to experience some hands-on learning for potential career paths and opportunities. They’re able to pick up on skills they otherwise wouldn’t be able to…

UMD Hosts ‘Bulldog Bonanza’

DULUTH, Minn.– UMD has been keeping busy by hosting fun events all week. Homecoming is all about celebrating the infamous football game and bringing together both new and returning students. On Friday, UMD hosted Bulldog Bonanza, and featured several food trucks at Ordean Court. In addition, they also had an inflatable obstacle course to drum up friendly competition. This year…

Piedmont Elementary Students Launch Weather Balloon

DULUTH, Minn. — Students in Duluth are taking their learning to new heights as they got to launch a weather balloon. Piedmont Elementary School is participating in the All-School Weather Balloon Project through St. Louis County and Essentia Health. The balloon launched just after 1pm today and is expected to reach an altitude of 100,000 feet above earth. Students learn…

FDLTCC Announces Changes to Law Enforcement Program

The program will now be called the Criminal Justice/Peace Officer program

CLOQUET, Minn. – Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is changing the name of its Law Enforcement program, to the Criminal Justice/Peace Officer program. The new name is just one of several changes made to the program, that the school says will reflect the modern changes in how officers serve their communities. The program’s coordinator, and former Duluth Police…

Driver Cited After Crash With School Bus In Ashland

ASHLAND, Wis. — Ashland emergency personnel responded to a school bus accident Monday morning. Ashland police said an SUV cut in front of the bus at the intersection of Binsfield Road and Farm Road. The bus struck the front passenger corner of the SUV driven by a 28-year-old female from Bessemer, Michigan, as she was turning left to go north…

UWS’s New Floating Classroom and Research Vessel is in Final Stages of Completion

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin Superior’s new state of the art floating classroom and research vessel is in its final stages before opening its doors to students. It has been over a year in the making for UWS’s Lake Superior Research Institute, who, with the help of donations are making the floating classroom come to life. The vessel,…

Local Podcasters Talk Inclusivity Training with Aspirus St. Luke’s Staff

DULUTH, Minn. — Health care is a necessity that many Americans still struggle with, but receiving fair treatment is important no matter the cause or how the person identify. Over the last year, father-daughter duo and local podcasters Cameron & Raven Kruger have holding educational seminars at Aspirus St. Luke’s. Their podcast, called the Transagenda, is focused on broad topics…

UW-Superior Opens Fall Theatre Auditions Up To St. Scholastica Students

SUPERIOR, Wis. — St. Scholastica students will again have the opportunity to participate in theatre, after their longtime program came to a close at the end of last year. The college community was up in arms after the cut was announced, leaving student thespians without their creative outlet. But after cooperating with the University of Wisconsin Superior, the university is…

Gov. Evers Visits UWS

Gov. Evers continues tour of public universities

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Another governor made a stop in the northland today. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers visited the University of Wisconsin Superior as part of his state-wide tour of public universities. Evers met with students, toured the school’s nearly complete stadium, and discussed his plans to address funding shortfalls within the UW school system. According to the Wisconsin Policy Forum,…

Duluth Public Library Program Brings Childcare Providers Together

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Public Library hosted an event on Monday to bring childcare providers together. It is part of the Play and Learn for Family, Friend, and Neighbor Caregivers program. The goal is to try and provide more money, resources and opportunities for these informal providers. This program gives providers a chance to meet others like them. And…

UMD Held an Educational AI Forum for Students and Faculty

The University of Minnesota Duluth held an AI forum to address the positives and negatives of artificial intelligence.

Duluth, Minn.–  The University of Minnesota Duluth held an artificial intelligence forum to address the positives and negatives of AI.  The forum highlighted UMD’s new Generative AI tools policy for the school year while looking to teach students, staff, and faculty how AI should be used properly in the workplace and in college. One of the points highlighted at the…

Wrenshall School District Sees Rise In Student Enrollment

WRENSHALL, Minn. — One of the Northland’s smaller schools has gotten a bit bigger this year. District officials tell us Wrenshall is experiencing an almost 10% bump in total enrollment. The school serves grades K through 12. Most of the new students are in kindergarten and 4th grade. School Board Chair Mary Carlson believes that’s a good sign for the…

YMCA & Essentia Partnerships Bridges Gap with Childcare & Housing Needs

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth is in need of over one-thousand spaces reserved for childcare. Although this problem is far from reaching a complete solution the Duluth Area Family YMCA and Essentia Health are adding more than 100 childcare spots in the Central Hillside neighborhood. Duluth Area Family YMCA has committed more than $1 million and Essentia Health more than $2.6…