The 2026 Homecoming Coronation will be held tonight at 7:00 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center.
Community, Family & Staff Flu Clinic: October 21st, 3:30-6:30, PI 5-12 Commons
October is National Principals Month!
This month, we’re celebrating our incredible principals who lead our schools, support our staff, advocate for our students, and help make our school communities great places to learn and grow.
Being a principal means wearing a lot of hats—often all in the same day! From celebrating student successes to supporting teachers and staff, solving problems, making tough decisions, and everything in between, our principals do so much behind the scenes to keep our schools moving forward.
Thank you Mr. Westphal, Mrs. Schafer, and Mr. Schiltz for your leadership, dedication, and commitment to our students, staff, and families. We appreciate all that you do—not just in October, but every day!
Happy National Principals Month!
This month, we’re celebrating our incredible principals who lead our schools, support our staff, advocate for our students, and help make our school communities great places to learn and grow.
Being a principal means wearing a lot of hats—often all in the same day! From celebrating student successes to supporting teachers and staff, solving problems, making tough decisions, and everything in between, our principals do so much behind the scenes to keep our schools moving forward.
Thank you Mr. Westphal, Mrs. Schafer, and Mr. Schiltz for your leadership, dedication, and commitment to our students, staff, and families. We appreciate all that you do—not just in October, but every day!
Happy National Principals Month!
Our high school student council is seeking donations for our SOP (Support Our Panthers) room.
Homecoming Week October 5th-9th
GO PANTHERS!!!
Reminder of our Dress Up Days:
ELC & Elementary
Middle School
High School
GO PANTHERS!!!
Reminder of our Dress Up Days:
ELC & Elementary
Middle School
High School
Biology student have spent the past two days performing water quality assessments at the Zumbro River and at the outdoor classroom pond.
PUMPKIN LUMINARY TRAIL IS BACK!
Pine Island High School Roots & Shoots Environmental Club is excited to bring back the Pumpkin Luminary Trail—and this year, we’re moving to COLLINS PARK!
Friday, October 30
5:00–7:00 PM
Collins Park
Bring your family, grab your costumes, and enjoy an evening of pumpkins, lights, treats, and outdoor fun!
WE NEED CARVED PUMPKINS!
Last year, our students and community lined the trail with 200 pumpkins! Can we beat that number this year?!
We’re looking for carved or decorated pumpkins to help create a magical luminary trail. Every pumpkin helps make the trail more spectacular!
Visitors will vote for their favorites. Themes include: Environmental, Spooky, Funny, Business, Organization
LOCAL BUSINESSES & ORGANIZATIONS
Want to be part of the fun? We’re looking for local businesses, organizations, clubs, and community groups to host a trick-or-treat station along the trail!
This is a great opportunity to connect with families and support an event led by our students.
RSVP to bring carved pumpkins or to host a Trick or Treat Station: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfyQyWGzHyp6Syxu7vGyR4UqzYnKTAlfnO4mXGzgUaBLReltg/viewform?usp=header
🧹 Happy School Custodian Appreciation Day! 🧹
Today, we’re taking a moment to recognize and THANK the amazing custodians who help keep our schools clean, safe, welcoming, and ready for learning every single day!
From classrooms and hallways to gyms, bathrooms, lunchrooms, and everything in between, our custodial team works behind the scenes to make sure Pine Island Schools can keep moving forward. They are often the first to arrive, the last to leave, and always ready to tackle whatever mess, maintenance need, or unexpected challenge comes their way!
Their hard work may not always be noticed, but it makes a BIG difference to our students, staff, and entire school community.
Thank you to our incredible Pine Island custodial team for all you do! We appreciate your dedication, flexibility, and the pride you take in caring for our schools.
We couldn’t do it without you!
Today, we’re taking a moment to recognize and THANK the amazing custodians who help keep our schools clean, safe, welcoming, and ready for learning every single day!
From classrooms and hallways to gyms, bathrooms, lunchrooms, and everything in between, our custodial team works behind the scenes to make sure Pine Island Schools can keep moving forward. They are often the first to arrive, the last to leave, and always ready to tackle whatever mess, maintenance need, or unexpected challenge comes their way!
Their hard work may not always be noticed, but it makes a BIG difference to our students, staff, and entire school community.
Thank you to our incredible Pine Island custodial team for all you do! We appreciate your dedication, flexibility, and the pride you take in caring for our schools.
We couldn’t do it without you!
High School SUN Room students had a great time at Rideability in Pine Island and we have a few new horse lovers!
Thank you to everyone at Rideability who volunteered their time to provide us with an amazing experience!
https://rideability.org/
Student Council is in need of convertibles for the Homecoming parade! We need 3 convertibles for the homecoming court, and we would need to know by the end of this weekend. Thank you so much to everyone who has offered so far!
The parade steps off at 2:15 pm on October 9th, and lineup starts at 1:30 pm. If you are able to donate, but can’t drive, we can find a driver for you! Thank you for your consideration and have a great rest of your week!
Email gracia.pike@pi255.org or parker.noll@pi255.org for a question or if you are willing to let us borrow your convertible!
POSITION: Full Time ADSIS Monitor Para
Date Posted: September 30, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Date Available: 2026-2027 school year
Closing Date: Until Filled
Compensation:
Click here to view the 2026-27 Para Contract. Rates for this position can be found on p. 37
This Position is Medical and/or Dental Benefit Eligible.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Independent School District #255 Pine Island is seeking a full time professional to coordinate a support room for high school students in our ADSIS program. This position works closely with the high school counselor and Special Education Director. This person must be able to work independently with students, and in small groups. Organization, communication and relationship building will be essential to being successful. This is a great opportunity for recent graduates, or someone interested in becoming a teacher
Why Teach at Pine Island High School? At Pine Island, we believe that every student can succeed. We are a high-achieving, fast-growing district that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence in education. As part of our team, you will:
Teach engaged, motivated students in a community that prioritizes education.
Work in a supportive, team-oriented environment where collaboration is encouraged.
Have access to professional development opportunities including professional conferences to grow in your career.
Be part of a district that invests in its teachers including mentorship programs, competitive salaries and benefits.
Pine Island is a wonderful community with many offerings including:
A safe, welcoming small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
Easy access to big-city amenities while enjoying affordable living.
Beautiful parks, trails, and the Zumbro River for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and biking.
A prime location just one hour south of the Twin Cities and twelve miles north of Rochester, home of the world famous Mayo Clinic and IBM.
If you’re looking for a school where you can make a difference, grow professionally, and be embraced by a fantastic community, Pine Island High School is the place for you! Candidates with questions about the position are encouraged to contact HS Principal Mitchel Schiltz at mschiltz@pineisland.k12.mn.us Apply today and become part of a district that values you and your passion for teaching.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent required and Associate degree or higher (preferred); or passing score on the Paraeducator assessment (within 60 days of employment)
Experience working with students in an educational setting is desirable.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Demonstrated ability to manage tasks, solve problems, and maintain a professional environment.
Hiring Administrator: Mitchel Schiltz, High School Principal
Application Procedure
External Applicants:
Please upload a letter of interest, resume, 3 letters of professional recommendation, transcripts and Minnesota Teacher license information with your online application.
Internal Applicants:
Current teachers do not need to attach letters of recommendation or transcripts.
Date Posted: September 30, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Date Available: 2026-2027 school year
Closing Date: Until Filled
Compensation:
Click here to view the 2026-27 Para Contract. Rates for this position can be found on p. 37
This Position is Medical and/or Dental Benefit Eligible.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Independent School District #255 Pine Island is seeking a full time professional to coordinate a support room for high school students in our ADSIS program. This position works closely with the high school counselor and Special Education Director. This person must be able to work independently with students, and in small groups. Organization, communication and relationship building will be essential to being successful. This is a great opportunity for recent graduates, or someone interested in becoming a teacher
Why Teach at Pine Island High School? At Pine Island, we believe that every student can succeed. We are a high-achieving, fast-growing district that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence in education. As part of our team, you will:
Teach engaged, motivated students in a community that prioritizes education.
Work in a supportive, team-oriented environment where collaboration is encouraged.
Have access to professional development opportunities including professional conferences to grow in your career.
Be part of a district that invests in its teachers including mentorship programs, competitive salaries and benefits.
Pine Island is a wonderful community with many offerings including:
A safe, welcoming small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
Easy access to big-city amenities while enjoying affordable living.
Beautiful parks, trails, and the Zumbro River for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and biking.
A prime location just one hour south of the Twin Cities and twelve miles north of Rochester, home of the world famous Mayo Clinic and IBM.
If you’re looking for a school where you can make a difference, grow professionally, and be embraced by a fantastic community, Pine Island High School is the place for you! Candidates with questions about the position are encouraged to contact HS Principal Mitchel Schiltz at mschiltz@pineisland.k12.mn.us Apply today and become part of a district that values you and your passion for teaching.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent required and Associate degree or higher (preferred); or passing score on the Paraeducator assessment (within 60 days of employment)
Experience working with students in an educational setting is desirable.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Demonstrated ability to manage tasks, solve problems, and maintain a professional environment.
Hiring Administrator: Mitchel Schiltz, High School Principal
Application Procedure
External Applicants:
Please upload a letter of interest, resume, 3 letters of professional recommendation, transcripts and Minnesota Teacher license information with your online application.
Internal Applicants:
Current teachers do not need to attach letters of recommendation or transcripts.
We're Hiring!
Location: Pine Island School District, 5-12 Building, Pine Island, MN
Position: Paraeducator – Student Support
Type: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Until Filled
Position Overview:
Pine Island School District is seeking a flexible, dependable, and compassionate Paraeducator to support students with disabilities in our middle and high school special education programs.
We are looking for a team-oriented individual who is passionate about supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs, and who can adapt to different settings, routines, and educational levels.
Key Responsibilities:
Middle-High School / General Assignment:
Support students with disabilities in special education and general education settings by implementing IEP accommodations and modifications.
Promote independence and engagement in academic and functional tasks.
Assist with behavior support plans and reinforce positive behavior strategies.
Provide supervision and assistance during transitions, lunch, or unstructured settings as needed.
General Responsibilities:
Collaborate with teachers, specialists, and other staff members to ensure consistent and inclusive support.
Maintain accurate records of support provided and time spent with students with disabilities.
Communicate regularly with special education case managers regarding student progress or concerns.
Participate in required training and professional development activities.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent required and Associate degree or higher (preferred); or passing score on the Paraeducator assessment (within 60 days of employment).
Experience working with youth with disabilities in a school-age setting.
Ability to manage a range of student needs with patience, consistency, and care.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Willingness and physical ability to support mobility or personal care needs when required.
Flexibility to adapt to varying schedules and assignments.
Pay and Compensation
Pay rate: $17.87 - $25.71 per hour (based on experience and ESP Master Agreement).
Benefits: Includes eligibility for health, dental, vision, PERA retirement plan, and a generous PTO plan.
Please fill out the application online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us.
Location: Pine Island School District, 5-12 Building, Pine Island, MN
Position: Paraeducator – Student Support
Type: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Until Filled
Position Overview:
Pine Island School District is seeking a flexible, dependable, and compassionate Paraeducator to support students with disabilities in our middle and high school special education programs.
We are looking for a team-oriented individual who is passionate about supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs, and who can adapt to different settings, routines, and educational levels.
Key Responsibilities:
Middle-High School / General Assignment:
Support students with disabilities in special education and general education settings by implementing IEP accommodations and modifications.
Promote independence and engagement in academic and functional tasks.
Assist with behavior support plans and reinforce positive behavior strategies.
Provide supervision and assistance during transitions, lunch, or unstructured settings as needed.
General Responsibilities:
Collaborate with teachers, specialists, and other staff members to ensure consistent and inclusive support.
Maintain accurate records of support provided and time spent with students with disabilities.
Communicate regularly with special education case managers regarding student progress or concerns.
Participate in required training and professional development activities.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent required and Associate degree or higher (preferred); or passing score on the Paraeducator assessment (within 60 days of employment).
Experience working with youth with disabilities in a school-age setting.
Ability to manage a range of student needs with patience, consistency, and care.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Willingness and physical ability to support mobility or personal care needs when required.
Flexibility to adapt to varying schedules and assignments.
Pay and Compensation
Pay rate: $17.87 - $25.71 per hour (based on experience and ESP Master Agreement).
Benefits: Includes eligibility for health, dental, vision, PERA retirement plan, and a generous PTO plan.
Please fill out the application online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us.
Students in EcoliteracySCHOOL spent the weekend exploring, learning, and building connections with their University of Minnesota Rochester mentors. The group kayaked the backwaters of the Mississippi River, toured Mystery Cave, and camped together at Forestville State Park.
EcoliteracySCHOOL (Students Collaborating in Health Oriented Outdoor Learning) is a semester-long program that combines online learning and discussion with hands-on, in-person field experiences. Throughout the semester, students work alongside their UMR mentors to explore the connections between human health, the natural environment, and personal well-being—all while developing teamwork, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.
EcoliteracySCHOOL (Students Collaborating in Health Oriented Outdoor Learning) is a semester-long program that combines online learning and discussion with hands-on, in-person field experiences. Throughout the semester, students work alongside their UMR mentors to explore the connections between human health, the natural environment, and personal well-being—all while developing teamwork, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.
Culture Club members met today for the first time today to start a new tradition. They ate lunch together and spoke Spanish. It's a voluntary club event that now happens two times a month during lunch. Thanks to all who participated!
Culture Club members met today for the first time today to start a new tradition. They ate lunch together and spoke Spanish. It's a voluntary club event that now happens two times a month during lunch. Thanks to all who participated!
We are excited to offer a new student activity for our middle school students - Conservation Crew!
Conservation Crew is an extra-curricular program for middle schoolers who are interested in making positive change for people, for animals, and for the environment. Students will develop leadership skills by designing and working on conservation projects that impact our school and community. We will spend the year planning and implementing student-selected projects.
Meetings will take place on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month in Mrs. Schimek's biology classroom (room 240) from 3:20-4:20pm.
Our first meeting is next Monday! Any student interested in joining should attend :)
Have questions? Send an email to Mrs. Schimek at meschimek@pineisland.k12.mn.us
Click here to learn more about Conservation Crew and Conservation Minnesota. https://www.conservationminnesota.org/crew
Hello Pine Island Community!
Our 5-12 SOP ("Support Our Panthers") resource room is low on snacks (crackers, fruit snacks, granola bars, nuts, etc.).
If you are willing to help, please contact Lindsey Lawler at lindsey.lawler@pineisland.k12.mn.us to inquire about specific donations. Thank you!
Our 5-12 SOP ("Support Our Panthers") resource room is low on snacks (crackers, fruit snacks, granola bars, nuts, etc.).
If you are willing to help, please contact Lindsey Lawler at lindsey.lawler@pineisland.k12.mn.us to inquire about specific donations. Thank you!
The 2026 PINE ISLAND SCHOOL RETIREE LUNCHEON was held on
September 10 at the Covered Bridge Restaurant in Zumbrota.
It was a wonderful opportunity to catch up with familiar faces, share stories, enjoy some good food. Thank you to all of our retirees for the countless ways you have helped make Pine Island Schools the special place it is today.
Front row: Nadeen Lunde, Jeanie Rucker, Candy Finley, Sue Sauter, Donna Nielsen, Margie Berg
Middle row: Kate Lenn, Mary Bakeberg, Barb Vang, Anita Benson, Becky Collins, Jan Sween, Bonnie Tarara, Jerry Kaiser, Dave Sween, Gary Berg, Beth
Kohner, Don Buck
Back row: Shari Ellingsen, Stephanie Swift, Jim Huston, Tom Bollman, Ken DeBoer, Ken Arel, Norm Nielsen, Willie Rauen
(missing Barb Arel who came late)
September 10 at the Covered Bridge Restaurant in Zumbrota.
It was a wonderful opportunity to catch up with familiar faces, share stories, enjoy some good food. Thank you to all of our retirees for the countless ways you have helped make Pine Island Schools the special place it is today.
Front row: Nadeen Lunde, Jeanie Rucker, Candy Finley, Sue Sauter, Donna Nielsen, Margie Berg
Middle row: Kate Lenn, Mary Bakeberg, Barb Vang, Anita Benson, Becky Collins, Jan Sween, Bonnie Tarara, Jerry Kaiser, Dave Sween, Gary Berg, Beth
Kohner, Don Buck
Back row: Shari Ellingsen, Stephanie Swift, Jim Huston, Tom Bollman, Ken DeBoer, Ken Arel, Norm Nielsen, Willie Rauen
(missing Barb Arel who came late)
September is Minnesota School Board Recognition Month!
Pine Island School is proud to join the Minnesota School Boards Association in recognizing the dedicated public servants who work to ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Strong public schools are built through strong local leadership. Rob, Kristi, Ted, Ron, Emily, Bryan, and Adam demonstrate that leadership every day by removing barriers, creating opportunities, and keeping students at the heart of the decisions they make.
We are grateful for their time, commitment, and service to our students, staff, families, and community. Thank you for all you do to support the Pine Island School District. You help make a difference for our students!
Happy Minnesota School Board Recognition Month!
Pine Island School is proud to join the Minnesota School Boards Association in recognizing the dedicated public servants who work to ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Strong public schools are built through strong local leadership. Rob, Kristi, Ted, Ron, Emily, Bryan, and Adam demonstrate that leadership every day by removing barriers, creating opportunities, and keeping students at the heart of the decisions they make.
We are grateful for their time, commitment, and service to our students, staff, families, and community. Thank you for all you do to support the Pine Island School District. You help make a difference for our students!
Happy Minnesota School Board Recognition Month!
We are incredibly proud to share that Kim Pokrandt has been named the 2026 Minnesota Nurse of the Year by the School Nurse Organization of Minnesota (SNOM)! 🩺❤️
This award publicly recognizes school nurses across Minnesota by honoring one school nurse who demonstrates excellence in school nursing practice and leadership in school health.
Nurse Kim will officially receive this special award at the SNOM Annual Conference in November.
Congratulations, Nurse Kim! This recognition is so well deserved! Thank you for the compassion, care, knowledge, and leadership you bring to our students, families, and staff every day. Your dedication to keeping our students healthy, safe, and ready to learn makes a difference in our school community every single day.
We are so fortunate to have you caring for our Pine Island students!
This award publicly recognizes school nurses across Minnesota by honoring one school nurse who demonstrates excellence in school nursing practice and leadership in school health.
Nurse Kim will officially receive this special award at the SNOM Annual Conference in November.
Congratulations, Nurse Kim! This recognition is so well deserved! Thank you for the compassion, care, knowledge, and leadership you bring to our students, families, and staff every day. Your dedication to keeping our students healthy, safe, and ready to learn makes a difference in our school community every single day.
We are so fortunate to have you caring for our Pine Island students!
