An endorsement from Genevieve and Trevor Borgmeier, Parents: Our two sons had experienced numerous challenges while in their first few years of school in another school district, even though their former school had one of the highest test scores and the most rigorous curriculum of any in the district. One son had issues being repeatedly bullied and the other was reprimanded daily for his own misbehavior. One felt unsafe at school and the other felt like a “bad boy.” They both consistently said they hated school. In spite of repeated attempts to work with their well-meaning teachers, we found that there just was not consistent support from within the district or the schools administration to appropriately address behavioral issues on a school-wide level. My conclusion was that the teachers themselves just didnt have the time, resources, or support to focus on anything with the children other than academics. When we began our search for a new home around a year and a half ago, we kept hearing about the great schools in Mahtomedi! I was hopeful, but we werent about to uproot our family unless we could be absolutely sure the kids needs would be better served in a new school. Before we bought our new house in the district, I made numerous visits and calls to the staff at Wildwood and OHA to find out what was behind this excellent reputation. I was immediately impressed at all the resources and staff dedicated to address the needs of all children, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. I had learned about Responsive Classrooms and the theory behind Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports from my brother-in-law who is somewhat of an expert in the field. Through him, I had become convinced of this approachs effectiveness in creating a positive environment for overall learning in the schools. When I heard that Mahtomedi implemented this approach in the schools district-wide, I knew we had found the right place for our sons. We ended up choosing to relocate to Mahtomedi and couldnt be happier with that decision. For the past year now, our boys have had wonderful school experiences in Mahtomedi. For the first time, they are each coming home from school feeling safe, supported, and getting a great education. If there are ever any issues, I know it will be handled consistently and respectfully. It has been nothing short of a dream come true for us. Frankly, Id take a mediocre education just to continue to hear my kids say how much they love school now. But in Mahtomedi, you dont have to settle for one or the other! The kids here get a great education, as well as support behaviorally, socially, and emotionally. Unless youve seen otherwise, like we have, it might be hard to place a value on just how special Mahtomedis schools are and how much is at stake if further cuts have to be made. The teachers are excellent, but the support staff (counselors, behavioral specialists, etc) are just as important. For our family, this extra support is what set Mahtomedi apart from the district from which we came. Mahtomedi schools have something incredible. Lets keep it that way. Please join our family in voting yes for the levy.
Posted on: Mon, 03 Nov 2014 17:00:00 +0000
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