By Jacob Scandrett - HS Principal As the snow and wind swirl outside, it’s hard to believe that spring is right around the corner. It’s that time of year when we begin full preparation for next fall. In schools all around Minnesota, districts are preparing students for course registration with class meetings, a review of course requirements, and discussions about credits for graduation. Students at MCC will start the registration process during the week of January 30th.
Our students will have some new opportunities at MCC next year. I am excited to announce that we will be adding Equine Science to our list of offerings in our Ag department. Here is a brief description of the class: Equine science is the study of horses and their care. During this class, students acquire practical, hands-on equine handling techniques; learn about equine nutrition, physiology and anatomy; and develop business strategy skills. Additional skills honed include critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership and a basic understanding of business principles and how they apply to equine enterprises. This program equips students for careers in equine health, industry sales, equine management, research and teaching.
Last year we brought back a class we hadn’t run in a long time-JH World Cultures- in an attempt to bolster our JH elective offerings. I am happy to report that enrollment for this class was phenomenal, and we are excited to offer it again next year. We will be changing the countries that are covered so that students who have an interest may take the new version of this class and learn about different countries. We will be alternating the country list every other year. Here is a brief description of the class: In this class, you will learn about language and traditions around the world. You will be able to introduce yourself in Spanish and ask a few simple questions. You will also learn about food, festivals, and holidays in other countries. The emphasis will be on conversation, but learning activities such as games and art will also be included. There are two years of rotating curriculum; students may take this in both seventh and eighth grade if desired. Materials needed: notebook and pencil. The country list for next year includes: Venezuela, Malaysia, Netherlands, Haiti, Brazil, Guinea, and Canada. Last year we piloted the CEO program and christened our inaugural class. Currently, we are in the process of student recruitment for next year. The CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) program is a premiere business program that gives students real world, hands-on experience in business creation and management. Students have now successfully run two businesses and presented information at vendor fairs and other local businesses and groups regarding the program. The profit from their class business will be used as startup money to start their own individual businesses. Mentors have been coaching students regarding their business plans since the first mentor meeting in October. MCC students report that things are going well and that they are learning applicable business and life skills. This program has led them to opportunities and experiences they have never had before. It pushes them out of their comfort zone and gives them a competitive edge. One MCC student said it has changed his life. If you are a current sophomore or junior and are interested in pursuing a business career, please consider applying for next year’s class!
This year we will also have some summer college class opportunities for our students to explore. Made possible through our Achievement and Integration collaborative, and funding from the Minnesota Department of Education, these classes will be available to current Sophomores and Juniors of Murray County Central and surrounding schools. The final courses that will be offered are still being decided upon, but stay tuned for more information.
I also wanted to take a moment in this Rebel Roundup to let everyone know we are looking for substitute teachers at MCC. While many people may not realize it, it can be quite difficult to find substitute teachers. Although we have been able to bring on some new subs this year, we still do not have enough to fill teacher vacancies on some days. When teacher vacancies are not filled our teachers have to sub during their prep period, which leaves them less time to prepare for their regular classes.
To work as a substitute teacher in Minnesota you need to obtain a substitute teaching license from the state. Like other teachers in this state, you also need at least a bachelor’s degree; however, it does not have to be in the teaching field (only long term subs need a teacher license in a specific field). If you or someone you know meets these guidelines and are interested in subbing a couple days a week, please consider it! The current sub pay at MCC is $140 per day. We are also in need of para subs- $15.51/ hour and kitchen subs- $13/hour.
The following is information to assist in obtaining a short call sub license, which is what is needed in order to substitute teach.
To access info on the website: 1. https://mn.gov/pelsb/ 2. Select under heading “Aspiring Educators” the Apply for a License link: “Online Licensing System” – You will need a google account to apply.
3. Follow the instructions for the new substitute license.
4. Apply to be considered for a sub at MCC at https://www.applitrack. com/murray/onlineapp/default.aspx The general information phone number for teacher licensing at MDE is: 651-539-4200
