TRIO Wolf Creek Distance Learning Charter School

News and Updates

June 7, 2011

Wolf Creek Online High School Announces Students of the Month for May 2011

Staff members have named Mariah Ireland and Anne Flaherty as Students of the Month for May based on their commitment to exceptional schoolwork. These students will receive a certificate for their achievement and be commemorated on our Student of the Month plaque. Students are recognized each month for their dedication to academics and for pursuing their online education with perseverance at Wolf Creek.

Mariah Ireland is a senior at Wolf Creek and was nominated by her Learning Manager, Laura Welciek. She said, “Mariah has shown an amazing work ethic during this third and fourth term. Mariah is taking an overage of credits and has had a great attitude despite the work load.” Mariah will walk in Wolf Creek’s graduation ceremony and finish her school work during the summer term. Mariah is excited to graduate and pursue her goals. She plans on going to college and studying to become a writer.

Anne Flaherty is a senior this year who has shown great initiative, consistency, and progress during each term. Her motivation to graduate and pursue a career in nursing and the health field is quite evident, as she independently enrolled herself in the Certified Nursing Assistant class at Parmly and has taken more challenging classes. She has been accepted to St. Catherine’s University and is excited to move forward with her goals after graduation. Anne works very hard to balance work and school. Hanna Coleman, her Learning Manager, said, “Anne is always positive and has a sweet attitude. I will miss working with her, and wish her all the best.”

Wolf Creek is a tuition-free online charter school serving full-time students in grades 9-12 across the state. Wolf Creek also serves part-time students using supplemental services through the online learning law. Wolf Creek is accredited by NCA and CITA. Instruction is technology based, and the course work can be completed off campus. Curriculum is available 24/7 online, and students have the option to work on campus each week. The school is based on a “small community” philosophy; students are assisted by one individual who helps them in academic as well as non-academic areas of their lives. Please visit triowolfcreek.com for more information. Congratulations Anne and Mariah!

May 19, 2011

Wolf Creek Online High School Announces Students of the Month for April 2011

Staff members have named Kyle Hunter and Mollie Davis as Students of the Month for April based on their commitment to exceptional schoolwork. These students will receive a certificate for their achievement and be commemorated on our Student of the Month plaque. Students are recognized each month for their dedication to academics and for pursuing their online education with perseverance at Wolf Creek.

Kyle Hunter is a sophomore at Wolf Creek and has been with us since the summer term of 2010. Dave Thomas, Kyle’s Learning Manager, noted, “Kyle has grown tremendously as a student during the course of the school year. His advocacy skills have increased along with his ability to communicate effectively with peers and adults. It has been wonderful getting to know Kyle and a pleasure to be able to experience his humor.” Kyle is on track to finish the fourth term strong. Keep up the good work Kyle!

Mollie Davis is a sophomore and has made plans to start PSEO at Pine Tech during the next school year. She takes pride in her coursework by meeting high standards. Sandy Flint, Mollie’s Learning Manager, had this to say about Mollie, “She is an excellent student with tremendous communication skills.” Mollie is actively involved in the community and has volunteered at her local Humane Society. Congratulations Mollie!

April 20, 2011

Wolf Creek Online High School Announces Students of the Month for March 2011

Staff members have named Alex Rivera and Martin Bergner as Students of the Month for March based on their commitment to exceptional schoolwork during the 2010-11 school year. These students will receive a certificate for their achievement and be commemorated on our Student of the Month plaque. Students are recognized each month for their dedication to academics and for pursuing their online education with perseverance at Wolf Creek.

Alex Rivera has been with Wolf Creek since the summer of 2010. She is a senior and will graduate in June. Alex attends the Wolf Creek campus regularly and is an active participant in Wolf Creek activities, such as our Girl’s Group. Lindsay Jarombek, Alex’s Learning Manager, said, “I am impressed with the growth that Alex has shown this school year. On top of all of her Wolf Creek schoolwork, Alex is taking the initiative to investigate postsecondary options. She has applied to many schools, but is still undecided about which school she will attend. She is a delight to be around.”

Martin Bergner chose to transfer to Wolf Creek because of the flexibility the online curriculum provides while still having support available on campus. Martin did a wonderful job balancing work and school during the third term. Hanna Coleman, his learning manager, noted, “Martin made a goal to pass all of his classes in the third term. I am proud of Martin for taking initiative and meeting his goal!” Tracy Quarnstrom, Wolf Creek’s Director, had this to say about Martin, “Martin’s ability to balance his many responsibilities is impressive.”

March 28, 2011
Wolf Creek National Honor Society Induction

The Wolf Creek Online High School applied and was successful in their bid to create a chapter of the National Honor Society at Wolf Creek beginning this year. National Honor Society recognizes exceptional students in each school who contribute in many ways. The advisor for NHS at Wolf Creek is Hanna Coleman.

The Wolf Creek Online High School Chapter of the National Honor Society has inducted its new members for 2010-2011. Lindsey Kirchoff and Kalli Frost were honored on March 24^th, 2011. They were selected after an application process that analyzes their character, leadership, and service, after having a cumulative qualifying grade-point average at or above 3.0. The selected members must show previous dedication towards each of the categories. The Wolf Creek NHS will be organizing a service project this spring. Congratulations Lindsey and Kalli!

Wolf Creek Online High School is a free public school that combines online education with optional time on campus several days per week. Wolf Creek serves grades 9-12. You can find more information at our website at triowolfcreek.com

March 22, 2011

Wolf Creek Online High School Announces Students of the Month for February 2011.

Staff members have named Lindsey Kirchoff and Shantel Green as Students of the Month for February based on their commitment to exceptional schoolwork during the middle of the 2010-11 school year. These students will receive a certificate for their achievement and be commemorated on our Student of the Month plaque. Students are recognized each month for their dedication to academics and for pursuing their online education with perseverance at Wolf Creek.

Lindsey Kirchoff started with Wolf Creek this year as a junior. She is an outstanding student and demonstrates excellent communication skills. She asks questions and advocates for herself well. Lindsey is a self starter who is able to take advantage of the flexibility of Wolf Creek’s curriculum and staff. During her transition to working mostly at home she has made use of various means of communication and excelled in her classes. Sandy Flint, Lindsey’s learning manager, had this to say about Lindsey, “She is a wonderful student. She is very thorough in her work and a caring person to boot. She is a joy to work with. I am very proud of her!

Shantel Green is a senior this year and is extremely motivated to graduate. She is performing well in all of her classes. She’s excited about the potential of the Certified Nursing Assistant class she will be taking. Shantel’s learning manager, Michelle Lange, said this about Shantel, “She eventually wants to be in a career field where she is able to help others. This suits her well as she is a natural with people. Shantel’s success at Wolf Creek is exciting and I know it will continue when she graduates.”

March 4, 2011
Sheryl Palmquist of Wolf Creek wins MAAP Employee of the Year Award

Sheryl Palmquist was surprised when her name was called at the MAAP Awards banquet as the winner of the Employee of the Year Award. MAAP, Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs, held its annual convention on February 24^th and 25^th at the DECC in Duluth, MN. Each year MAPP awards an employee of an alternative school program with the award. Sheryl Palmquist was nominated for the award as a dedicated employee of Wolf Creek Online High School in Chisago City. Sheryl has worked for over seven years as a secretary, receptionist, and data entry coordinator at Wolf Creek. Tracy Quarnstrom, director of Wolf Creek, wrote in her nomination, “You may believe that these jobs will take up most of the day for an average person but Sheryl finds time in her day to do so much more. She greets each and every student, staff member, and visitor to our building with a smile and a short conversation. She genuinely cares about each student and they know this and seek her out when they are having a bad day for a quick pep talk or encouragement.”

In addition to the administrative assistant responsibilities, Sheryl coordinates county services for the young parents at Wolf Creek and brings in resources for them all the time. Sheryl is in charge of the birthday clubs and sunshine clubs at Wolf Creek to remember occasions for each staff member and make them feel appreciated at all times. She is also the Committee Chair of the Wellness Committee, coordinating a focus week when students learn about healthy living topics. Sheryl finds resources in the community and brings them back to benefit students all the time. Sheryl has also been a member of Wolf Creek’s Board of Directors for the past two years. Tracy also added, “She goes above and beyond her job title of clerical at Wolf Creek and fills a much needed role of surrogate mother to staff and students alike. I nominate Sheryl Palmquist for the staff member of the year award without hesitation.” All of the staff and students are very proud of Sheryl for winning this award. More information on Wolf Creek can be found at www.triowolfcreek.com .

Sheryl is a graduate of Chisago Lakes High School and the University of MN in Duluth. She balances her dedication to Wolf Creek with her dedication to her family. She resides in Lindstrom, MN with her husband, Kurt, and sons, Lance and Lewis.

Tracy Quarnstrom and Sheryl Palmquist

February 14, 2011

Wolf Creek Students of the Month for January

Congratulations to Masen Avery and Lauren Jewell! They have been elected as Wolf Creek’s January Students of the Month! They will be receiving a letter and certificate sent to their homes on behalf of Wolf Creek. They will also receive a Subway gift card. Make sure you look for Masen and Lauren in your local newspaper in coming weeks. You will also be able to see them in the front entry of our school!

Masen Avery is a senior at Wolf Creek. He joined Wolf Creek at the start of the second term during which he passed all four of his classes plus OTIS. Masen’s Learning Manager, Dave Thomas, has this to say about Masen, “His creative thinking and ability to problem solve is evident throughout his coursework. Masen has a bright future!” He plans on graduating after the third term by taking another full load of classes. He is off to a great start in the third term with two consecutive weeks of 40% increase and more. Masen plans on attending a four year school and possibly entering the education field, so that he could positively impact the future generations of America.
Lauren Jewell joined Wolf Creek in Term 2. She is a senior this year, and is excited to graduate. Hanna Coleman, Lauren’s Learning Manager, noted that, “Lauren is one of the most motivated and organized students I have worked with.” She passed all her classes last term with B’s and A’s. Lauren is goal-oriented and determined to attend college for an RN to BSN, and recently decided that she wanted to look into being a midwife following her nursing degree. Hanna also shared, “Lauren is in constant communication with me regarding her commitment to school, her interests, and her plans for the future. She has a positive attitude and very friendly personality. It has been a delight to work with Lauren this year!”

February 3, 2011

Wolf Creek Online High School Celebrates Early Graduates

Wolf Creek Online High School celebrated three graduates on Thursday, January 20^th, 2011. Melissa Remley, Jacob Flicek, and Casey Whitman all completed their requirements for graduation at the end of Term 2. These students were very motivated to complete their final classes as seniors and to meet their goals of an early graduation.

Wolf Creek is a continuous learning year school, so students have the ability to work ahead and graduate early. In addition, all three students earned Student of the Month awards this past fall and winter. Casey Whitman is looking into postsecondary options in social work or graphic design. Her learning manager, Lindsay Jarombek, shared, “I am proud of her growth at Wolf Creek personally, academically, and socially.” Jacob Flicek plans to work this spring and save money for college in the fall, as he will be attending Faith Baptist College in Iowa to become a minister. Jake’s learning manager, Sandy Flint, noted, “I have really enjoyed working with Jake this year, as he has excellent communication skills and takes a lot of pride in his coursework.” Melissa Remley has enrolled in a Certified Nursing Assistant program for this spring and plans to start at Century in the summer. Missy shared, “I really liked how supportive all of the staff members were at Wolf Creek and the freedom that students have.” Missy’s learning manager, Hanna Coleman, said, “Missy has a bright future ahead of her, as her motivation and commitment to learning are highly evident.” Congratulations Casey, Jake, and Missy! We wish you all the best!

January 10, 2011

Wolf Creek Students of the Month for December

Wolf Creek Online High School Announces Students of the Month for December 2010.

Staff members have named Jacob Flicek and Michelle Mann as Students of the Month for December based on their commitment to exceptional schoolwork during the beginning of the 2010-11 school year. These students will receive a certificate for their achievement and be commemorated on our Student of the Month plaque. Students are recognized each month for their dedication to academics and for pursuing their online education with perseverance at Wolf Creek.

Jacob Flicek is a senior this year at Wolf Creek who takes a lot of pride in his coursework. He is scheduled to graduate early at the end of January. This will allow him to work and save money for college. He has been accepted to Faith Baptist College in Iowa where he plans to study to become a minister. Besides working, Jake will continue to volunteer his time with his church where he helps with the youth ministry and is learning more about the profession he plans to pursue. Jake’s Learning Manager, Sandy Flint, nominated him for Student of the Month because “Jake is a great communicator and easy to work with. He has made a habit of overcoming obstacles and this inspires me to do the same.” Congratulations Jacob!

Michelle Mann is a senior who started at Wolf Creek this year. She is committed to her future, and has plans to attend UMD. Michelle holds herself to a high academic standard which was evidenced when she asked to take an advanced math class above the requirement. She does all this while holding two jobs as a waitress, and volunteering her time to raise money for Toys 4 Tots. Becki Olseen, Michelle’s Learning Manager, had this to say, “Michelle has been a joy since she walked in the door. She is hardworking, respectful, and has shown initiative to get involved around campus. She has a refreshing excitement and school spirit.” We are grateful to have Michelle as a student and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes!

January 7, 2011

Wolf Creek Students Welcomed Back from Winter Break with Wendy’s and Dave Thomas

After relaxing over winter break and working on course work from home on Monday, Wolf Creek students came back to campus in Chisago City on Tuesday, January 4, 2011. They were ready to work hard to finish up the term, as well as, check in with staff and other students. To celebrate a new year at Wolf Creek, a nutritious lunch from Wendy’s was provided for the students. Our own Dave Thomas, Social Studies and Special Education teacher, was happy to celebrate with the students. Lunch consisted of chili and baked potatoes with toppings including broccoli and cheese. Students were also given the opportunity to enter a raffle. Students who could not attend were given opportunities to enter the raffle through email. Prizes awarded included Wolf Creek sweat shirt, hat, Subway cards, and headphones. The students and staff had a lot of fun. Amber Miller and Taylor Anderson are enjoying their lunch as shown in the picture below. Students are now hard at work finishing up term 2 which ends on January 20, 2010. Term 3 will begin on Tuesday, January 25. Applications are now being accepted for new students in Term 3. For more information on Wolf Creek Online High School, see our website at triowolfcreek.com.

December 6, 2010

Wolf Creek Students of the Month for November

Congratulations to Hayley VanZee and Casey Whitman! They have been elected as Wolf Creek’s November Students of the Month!

Hayley VanZee is a senior who started during her sophomore year at Wolf Creek Online High School. Hayley has effective communication skills and takes pride in her coursework. She strives for excellence, overcoming obstacles to reach her goals. Hayley’s Learning Manager, Sandy Flint, said, “I am really proud of her and have enjoyed working with Hayley these past two years. Hayley will do great things.”

Casey Whitman is a senior this year. She has been with Wolf Creek for almost 2 years. During that time, she has been committed to attending our campus each Tuesday and Thursday, often participating fully in Wolf Creek activities. Casey’s goal for this year was to graduate after term 2. She has stuck to that goal and remains on track every week. Lindsay Jarombek, Casey’s Learning Manger, noted, “Casey is a very thoughtful young woman with a bright future. I am so proud of her and happy to have been her LM.”

They will be receiving a letter and certificate sent to their homes on behalf of Wolf Creek. They will also receive a Subway gift card. Make sure you look for Hayley and Casey in your local newspaper in coming weeks. You will also be able to see them in the front entry of our school!

November 2010

Toys for Tots campaign

Wolf Creek is a drop site for the 2010 Toys for Tots campaign this holiday season. Toys for Tots is a toy drive sponsored by the US Marines for needy children and teens. We are asking for Wolf Creek families and local community members to donate new, unwrapped toys in the official collection box. The Toys for Tots drive begins November 2 and ends on December 7. Wolf Creek will be delivering the toys and appearing on the KARE 11 newscast at 5pm on December 7. Donate a toy and mark your calendars for our TV debut. Thank you for joining us in our spirit of giving!

KARE 11- Link 12/7 5:00 pm newscast ( Wolf Creek/Toys for Tots)
http://www.kare11.com/video/KARE_Newscasts/#/5pm%20Newscast/December%207%2C%202010%205pm%20News/61280261001/49497127001/702293483001

November 1, 2010

Wolf Creek Students of the Month for October

Congratulations to Dylan Haseltine and Missy Remley! They have been elected as October Students of the Month at Wolf Creek! Students are recognized each month for their dedication to academics and for pursuing their online education with perseverance.
Dylan is new to Wolf Creek and has adapted great! He is passing all of his classes and eager to start on next quarters. He is thoughtful and well prepared-asking his Learning Manager to introduce him to NovaNET so he can be prepared to start the upcoming week. He checks in often with his Learning Manager, Becki Olseen, through email and while at campus each week. Becki talks candidly about Dylan, “He is extremely respectful. He is a little shy, but great to talk to. Dylan has more than proven himself to be a successful student. He is also trying to teach his Learning Manager about death metal, although she is learning very slowly.”
Missy is a senior this year and is on track to graduate early. She is a highly motivated, responsible, and independent student. Missy has set solid goals for herself including taking more challenging classes in order to prepare herself for college education. She has taken the initiative to fill out applications for college and is excited to pursue a career in helping others in the health and nursing field. Missy’s Learning Manager, Hanna Coleman, had more great things to say about her. “Missy communicates with me regularly about her class progress, her interests, and her motivations. Missy is also an active participant of girls group. I have enjoyed working with Missy this quarter and look forward to helping her reach her goals!”
These students will be honored in the local newspaper and on student of the month display in the Wolf Creek Campus entryway. Each student of the month will also receive a letter, certificate, and a Subway gift card. Congratulations!!

October 4, 2010

Wolf Creek Students of the Month for September

Congratulations to Kyla Reeve and Damon Medek!   They have been elected as Wolf Creek’s September Students of the Month!
          Kyla has always been one of my most hard-working students. This year she is on a mission to graduate. By week two she was already passing two of her classes. She really enjoyed her Sociology class, which has been fun for me as a teacher. She is also taking steps for her post-secondary education. She shows great initiative, and keeps me on my toes. She will be pursuing a photography degree. We often talk about how we can use our love of photography to help others. Kyla is also a young mother, and seems to a do a great job balancing her roles.
          Damon is new to Wolf Creek this year. He is an articulate young man who has a consistent work ethic and a positive attitude. He has taken the initiative to discuss his academic goals and to pursue post-secondary options in the spring and following graduation. Damon also has shown interest in participating in Wolf Creek activities that are related to his personal interests, especially music. He communicates clearly and honestly with others, and it has been a pleasure getting to know him.

They will be honor in the local newspaper and on student of the month display in the entryway. Each student of the month will also receive a letter, certificate, and a Subway gift card. Students are recognized each month for their dedication to academics and for pursuing their online education with perseverance at Wolf Creek.

September 7, 2010
Wolf Creek is pleased to announce the addition of two new Learning Managers for 2010-2011.

Hanna Coleman joins the science department at Wolf Creek Online High School.
Hanna Coleman grew up in rural, Rush Point, MN and attended high school in Braham. Following graduation from Bethel University in St. Paul, she taught physical science and chemistry at Buffalo High School for two years. For the past ten months, she taught math and science and led the garden, knitting, and volleyball activities at an international school in Beijing, China. This coming school year, she is looking forward to collaborating with a dedicated and creative team and building meaningful relationships with students in order to encourage life-long learning, personal growth, and positive risk-taking.

Dave Thomas joins the Special Education department at Wolf Creek Online High School.
Dave comes to Wolf Creek after teaching both Special Education and Social Studies classes for Centennial Schools for the past four years. He states he is excited “to get to know the students at Wolf Creek and to help them achieve their goals”. Dave enjoys participating in competitive sports, reading, and spending time with his family when not teaching and working.

Learning Managers are licensed Minnesota teachers who serve both as teachers and advisors for students at Wolf Creek Online High School.Wolf Creek campus is located at 10363 Liberty Lane in Chisago City, MN.Wolf Creek offers students an opportunity to come to campus several days per week or to work completely from home. Wolf Creek offers an accredited NCA diploma based on completion of 26 credits in specific areas. Visit our website today at triowolfcreek.com or call for a tour and information at 651-213-2017.

June 14, 2010
Wolf Creek Online High School Commencement 2010 Class of 2010 Photo,

With 46 graduates, Wolf Creek Online High School celebrated the class of 2010 on Friday, June 11, 2010. Over 250 friends, families, school board members, and faculty attended the ceremony held at Lakeside School in Chisago City. Students in this year's graduation class were residents of Blaine, Center City, Chisago City, Coon Rapids, Forest Lake, Hugo, Lindstrom, Maplewood, North Branch, Princeton, Scandia, Shafer, Stacy, Taylors Falls, and Wyoming, MN.

Director Tracy Quarnstrom welcomed the thirty three seniors who chose to participate in the 2010 commencement ceremony, and all guests including Senator Rick Olseen and Judge Robert Rancourt. She also thanked Chisago Lakes School District for its continued support of the charter school.

Vice-Chair Jeff Vitali gave the school board representative address encouraging students to chart their course for their future, and Learning Manager Stacy Bender gave the faculty address encouraging students to patiently pursue their goals in life. Two graduates shared thoughts as well. Richard Hay read a poem that he had written for an English class, and Camilla Belland gave a speech about her positive four years at Wolf Creek. Both student speakers spoke highly of the learning managers at Wolf Creek.

Learning Manager Cassie Gaede awarded Alumni Scholarships to Tim Hill of Stacy who plans to attend St. Paul College to pursue automotive collision repair and Lisa Landecker of Wyoming who plans to attend Century College to pursue nursing. Wolf Creek is currently accepting donations for alumni scholarships to be given to the class of 2011.

School Board Chair, Tom Plocher, handed out the student diplomas; faculty and staff greeted the students after they received their diplomas cheered in celebration for each individual's success. Wolf Creek staff honored graduates individually by reading a senior survey about why they experienced success at Wolf Creek, favorite quotes, times remembered, and future dreams. Here are some examples of those senior surveys for the senior speakers of the night.

Cami Belland: Cami's favorite memory is walking in every week to lab to a warm welcome from Sheryl at the front desk. Cami believes that she was successful at Wolf Creek because Wolf Creek staff members are there for students for whatever they can help students with. It is an amazing environment and all the teachers are wonderful. Cami we think you are wonderful also we know the sky is the limit on your future plans and we wish you much success!

Ricky Hay: After finishing up his tour in the marines Ricky hopes to attend school and become a police officer. His favorite song is "American Solider" by Toby Keith. His hobbies include hanging out with friends and playing sports. He decided to attend Wolf Creek because it was seemed like it would be helpful for him, and it was. He was able to work at his own pace and really enjoyed Wolf Creek in many ways. Congratulations Ricky! We wish you a bright future in every way!

Many Wolf Creek graduates look forward to future plans of college at places such as Minnesota School of Cosmetology, Minnesota Community and Technical College, Anoka-Ramsey Community College, and Hennepin Technical College. Others have plans to enlist in the armed services.

Wolf Creek sponsored a brief reception following the ceremony with refreshments.

What is Wolf Creek Online High School?

Wolf Creek is a tuition-free online charter school serving full-time students in grades 9-12 across the state. Wolf Creek also serves part-time students using supplemental services and the online learning law. Wolf Creek is accredited by NCA, CITA, and NCAA. Instruction is technology based, and the course work can be completed off campus. Curriculum is available 24/7 online, and students have the option to work on campus each week. The school is based on a “small community” philosophy; students are assisted by one individual who helps them in academic as well as non-academic areas of their lives. Please visit our website for more information: www.triowolfcreek.com.

March 2010
"Attendance Policy and Truancy Procedures of an Online School" Article

The definition of truancy at an online school does not mirror the definition of truancy at a traditional school. At the traditional school, students arrive at school or do not arrive at school, sit in classes or do not sit in classes, and either attend school or are considered truant if their lack of attendance does not fit into the excused categories provided by the laws of the students’ states of residence. Attendance is considered physically sitting in a seat for the determined number of minutes or hours that the school holds academic programming. State legislators have written truancy laws with traditional schools in mind; however, students attending online schools must adhere to these laws as well. This article will examine how these laws apply to online students and the role of online schools in the enforcement of these laws. In addition, this article will advocate for online schools to take the lead in providing a clear definition of attendance as well as to cooperate and to collaborate with state departments which oversee truancy enforcement. One should note that the information in this article will illustrate these concepts using Minnesota truancy laws and the policies and procedures of Wolf Creek Online High School, an online hybrid charter high school in Minnesota. Click here for full article

March 15, 2010

Wolf Creek Staff at the Capital

Wolf Creek Online High School Director Tracy Quarnstrom and Special Education Teacher Kelly Legg spent a day over spring break visiting the capital in St. Paul to discuss the importance of quality charter schools in the state of Minnesota. Tuesday, March 9^th was recognized as Minnesota Charter School Day at the capital and over 400 representatives from various charter schools around the state were in attendance for the event. The event was sponsored by the Minnesota Association of Charter Schools. It was designed to showcase the high quality charter schools that are present in the state of Minnesota.

Minnesota currently has 150 charter schools in existence with 4 new schools approved for the fall of 2010. Charter Schools offer students choices in education and are approved under the premise that they offer something new and innovative for educational communities. Charter Schools are public schools in the state of Minnesota and receive funds in much the same way as residential school districts receive funds. Charter Schools also follow the same requirements of public school entities such as testing and enrolling all students based on ability levels.

Quarnstrom and Legg met with both Chisago Lakes legislators, Representative Jeremy Kallin and Senator Rick Olseen, during their time at the capital. Since Legg resides in the Apple Valley/Rosemount district they also met with several of her legislators. The day was very productive and many enlightening conversations were started on that day.

Wolf Creek Online High School is Minnesota’s only hybrid high school model where students have an opportunity to come to school for as much at two days per week, and spend the remainder of the time working from home on computer based curriculum. Wolf Creek has a continuous learning year, which means that they offer a summer session in a variety of areas for enrichment purposes. If you are interested in learning more about Wolf Creek Online High School please visit our website at triowolfcreek.com

February 8, 2010

Education is Changing ..... Wolf Creek Online High School is Leading the Way.

Can you imagine a world without change; a world without microwaves, the interstate highway system, or digital cameras? What if there was no internet, cell phones, or television? In the article, “Getting it Right & Doing it Better,” Bryan Townsend stated, "Reasonable people understand all change is not progress. However, we must concede, all progress is change." He goes on to say that change is a two step process. Progress comes from those who are determined to do their thing and they are insistent about getting it right. Then these determined people insist on finding ways to do it better. Those who are constantly and consistently looking for ways to improve are the ones who bring us progress and innovation.

Wolf Creek Online High School works in much the same manner. Wolf Creek has had many areas of change and progress. Wolf Creek opened in 1996 as one of the first distance learning schools in Minnesota as a school with-in a school at Chisago Lakes School district. Wolf Creek was part of a three year study with University of Minnesota to see if students could learn online. The conclusion of the study was "yes, students can learn online!" From that point this distance learning school has blossomed. In 2002 Wolf Creek received its charter school designation and has been growing, gaining ground, and bringing progress and change to students ever since.

Today Wolf Creek Online High School's campus is located at 10363 Liberty Lane in Chisago City, MN. This small tuition-free public online charter school is busy educating approximately 125 fulltime students in grades 9-12, up to age 21, across the state. Another set of approximately 25 students are enrolled part-time using supplemental services and the online learning law. These students can take up to 50% of their classes at Wolf Creek while remaining enrolled in their traditional brick and mortar district.

Wolf Creek Online High School’s curriculum is available 24/7 online, and students have the option to work on campus each week. The school is based on a "small community" philosophy; students are assisted by one individual who helps them in academic as well as non-academic areas of their lives. This individual is called a Learning Manager and is the center of the school's model. Each Learning Manager works with about 25 students both on and off campus daily. Wolf Creek enrolls a variety of students; these students range from those who are excelling to graduate early to those who are working hard to get caught up. Students like the change to online learning due to the flexibility and ease of accessibility. Wolf Creek is a great option for students who are independent and self-motivated.

Kalli Frost is one of those independent and self-motivated students; she is a junior and has been enrolled at Wolf Creek Online for the past two years. Kalli says that her Learning Manager, Lindsay Jarombek, is fantastic and she helps her with everything, not just coursework. She is there to talk about academics, college, and future plans anytime. Kalli says a typical day for her involves getting up at about 8 am and working online in her pajamas or getting ready to come to campus to work. She likes the option of working at home several days per week. She enjoys the comfort of working in her own home, as well as being able to have whatever food, music, and work time she desires. She has her mom available at home for assistance if needed and her Learning Manager is always a text, email, chat-room, or phone call away. She comes to campus weekly to meet with her Learning Manager, to get help with classes, and talk about future plans. She also attends campus to meet with other students and work in the computer labs on specific assignments. Kalli says her favorite thing about Wolf Creek is "the flexibility and the ability to be on her own schedule. She is able to move ahead in courses if she wants to do that."

The staff at Wolf Creek Online High School is dedicated to progress and innovation. Wolf Creek is accredited by NCA, CITA, and NCAA. Instruction is innovative and technology based, and the course work can be completed on or off campus. Wolf Creek has Continuous Learning Year status from the Minnesota Department of Education; therefore, students are able to complete course work throughout the year; applications for summer school are currently being accepted. If you are interested in learning more about Wolf Creek, please visit their website at triowolfcreek.com or stop by for a tour on Tuesdays at 10 am.

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