Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence Announces 2027 Engineering Machine Design Contest Student Ambassadors
MANKATO, MN — The Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence is proud to introduce the 2027 Engineering Machine Design Contest (EMDC) Student Ambassadors:
Josh Burke (Blaine, MN), Vivian Slettedahl (Pine Island, MN), and Evelyn Baird (Pine Island,MN).
These three students have been selected as leaders, innovators, and advocates who embody the spirit of the EMDC. As ambassadors, they play a vital role in growing the program, supporting their peers, and sharing the impact of hands-on engineering experiences within their schools and
local communities.
"Our Student Ambassadors represent the very best of what this contest stands for, " said Melissa Huppert, STEM Outreach Coordinator for the Engineering Center of Excellence.
"They understand that EMDC is about more than building a machine—it is about developing the problem-solving skills, teamwork, and confidence necessary for future success."
Meet the 2027 Ambassadors:
Josh Burke (ARCHES, Blaine, MN): Returning for his second term after serving as a 2026 Ambassador, Josh is recognized for his purposeful leadership and dependability. He excels in coordinating team logistics and motivating his peers to step outside their
comfort zones.
Vivian Slettedahl (Pine Island Public School, MN): Driven by curiosity and a passion for engineering, Vivian has used the EMDC to explore complex systems and shape her future career goals. She is a strong advocate for the inclusive and supportive environment
the contest provides.
Evelyn Baird (Pine Island Public School, MN): Known for her composure under pressure, Evelyn is a highly organized collaborator. She is recognized by her teammates for her ability to tackle complex challenges head-on while actively listening to and
integrating the ideas of others.
About the Engineering Machine Design Contest (EMDC) The Engineering Machine Design Contest is an opportunity for teams of 3 to 12 students to design and build a complex machine using everyday objects. The completed machine uses multiple steps to complete a simple task.
Teams are scored on a Team Journal, Team Presentation, and Machine Design and Operation, allowing students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
principles in a collaborative, whimsical environment.
About the Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence The Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence facilitates relationships by engaging academic institutions with industry and provides educational outreach by inspiring interest in STEM. The Center helps introduce STEM career pathways to students starting as early as fifth grade, shaping the next generation of engineers who will solve real-world problems.
MANKATO, MN — The Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence is proud to introduce the 2027 Engineering Machine Design Contest (EMDC) Student Ambassadors:
Josh Burke (Blaine, MN), Vivian Slettedahl (Pine Island, MN), and Evelyn Baird (Pine Island,MN).
These three students have been selected as leaders, innovators, and advocates who embody the spirit of the EMDC. As ambassadors, they play a vital role in growing the program, supporting their peers, and sharing the impact of hands-on engineering experiences within their schools and
local communities.
"Our Student Ambassadors represent the very best of what this contest stands for, " said Melissa Huppert, STEM Outreach Coordinator for the Engineering Center of Excellence.
"They understand that EMDC is about more than building a machine—it is about developing the problem-solving skills, teamwork, and confidence necessary for future success."
Meet the 2027 Ambassadors:
Josh Burke (ARCHES, Blaine, MN): Returning for his second term after serving as a 2026 Ambassador, Josh is recognized for his purposeful leadership and dependability. He excels in coordinating team logistics and motivating his peers to step outside their
comfort zones.
Vivian Slettedahl (Pine Island Public School, MN): Driven by curiosity and a passion for engineering, Vivian has used the EMDC to explore complex systems and shape her future career goals. She is a strong advocate for the inclusive and supportive environment
the contest provides.
Evelyn Baird (Pine Island Public School, MN): Known for her composure under pressure, Evelyn is a highly organized collaborator. She is recognized by her teammates for her ability to tackle complex challenges head-on while actively listening to and
integrating the ideas of others.
About the Engineering Machine Design Contest (EMDC) The Engineering Machine Design Contest is an opportunity for teams of 3 to 12 students to design and build a complex machine using everyday objects. The completed machine uses multiple steps to complete a simple task.
Teams are scored on a Team Journal, Team Presentation, and Machine Design and Operation, allowing students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
principles in a collaborative, whimsical environment.
About the Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence The Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence facilitates relationships by engaging academic institutions with industry and provides educational outreach by inspiring interest in STEM. The Center helps introduce STEM career pathways to students starting as early as fifth grade, shaping the next generation of engineers who will solve real-world problems.
Due to the County Road 3 closure from May 18–29, some bus routes will need to be adjusted—particularly those that drop off students in town (Pine Island). If your route has a significant change, you should have received a notification through the Stopfinder app with updated stop times and bus numbers (if applicable). Please check the app to review these updates.
Note: Route changes will not appear on individual student schedules until the end of the day on May 15. Afternoon routes that normally travel on County Road 3 may experience delays.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammi Quintero, Transportation Director, at 507-356-8666 or tquintero@pineisland.k12.mn.us.
Note: Route changes will not appear on individual student schedules until the end of the day on May 15. Afternoon routes that normally travel on County Road 3 may experience delays.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammi Quintero, Transportation Director, at 507-356-8666 or tquintero@pineisland.k12.mn.us.
Today we celebrate National School Nurse Day and the incredible care, compassion, and dedication our school nurses bring to our students and staff every single day.
From handling bumps and bruises to supporting overall student wellness, your impact goes far beyond the health office. You are a trusted presence, a calming voice, and a vital part of our school community.
Thank you for all that you do to keep our students safe, healthy, and ready to learn. We appreciate Nurse Kim and Nurse Krista today and every day!
Alexis Weis, 6th grade Pine Island student, won the Class III (Grades 6 & 7) American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Poster local contest. Her artwork now moves on to the next level. Congrats, Lexi!
Keira Huschka, 4th grade Pine Island student, won the Class II (Grades 3 & 4) American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Poster local contest. Her artwork now moves on to the next level. Congrats, Keira!
Keira Huschka, 4th grade Pine Island student, won the Class II (Grades 3 & 4) American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Poster local contest. Her artwork now moves on to the next level. Congrats, Keira!
Jazz Strings Concert: May 9
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to the incredible Pine Island educators who make a difference every single day!
Thank you for your dedication, patience, and passion for helping students learn and grow. Whether you're inspiring curiosity, offering encouragement, or going the extra mile behind the scenes, your impact reaches far beyond the classroom.
We are grateful for everything you do for our students, our school, and our community. Be sure to take a moment this week to thank a teacher who has made a difference in your life!
Thank you for your dedication, patience, and passion for helping students learn and grow. Whether you're inspiring curiosity, offering encouragement, or going the extra mile behind the scenes, your impact reaches far beyond the classroom.
We are grateful for everything you do for our students, our school, and our community. Be sure to take a moment this week to thank a teacher who has made a difference in your life!
Seniors in Intermediate Mid Spanish got some good luck snuggles from Goose, our School Nurse's new puppy today before taking the national AAPPL exam.
Seniors in Intermediate Mid Spanish got some good luck snuggles from Goose, our School Nurse's new puppy today before taking the national AAPPL exam.
Today some of our seniors celebrated National College Decision Day by wearing attire to represent their college choices. What an exciting time!
Join us for the PIHS Roots & Shoots Environmental Club Spring Open House of the Nature Play Trail!
Sunday, May 17 from 1:00–3:00 PM
Bring your family and come explore all the fun our Nature Play Trail has to offer!
Highlights include:
• Exploring the trail and interactive play stations
• Hands-on enrichment activities for kids
• Plant sale
• Live performances by the Farmers Market Ramblers
• Raffle drawing featuring a custom-built Mud Kitchen and other nature/outdoor-themed prizes
Come celebrate nature, play, and community with us—we hope to see you there!
Sunday, May 17 from 1:00–3:00 PM
Bring your family and come explore all the fun our Nature Play Trail has to offer!
Highlights include:
• Exploring the trail and interactive play stations
• Hands-on enrichment activities for kids
• Plant sale
• Live performances by the Farmers Market Ramblers
• Raffle drawing featuring a custom-built Mud Kitchen and other nature/outdoor-themed prizes
Come celebrate nature, play, and community with us—we hope to see you there!
National School Principals’ Day, celebrated each year on May 1st, recognizes the hard work and leadership of principals. They play a vital role in supporting teachers, engaging students, managing daily operations, and building a positive school culture.
Thank you Josh, Katie and Mitch for all you do for Pine Island Schools.
Thank you Josh, Katie and Mitch for all you do for Pine Island Schools.
Pine Island Trap
Competition Week 2- Here are the top ten!
10-BOE, RYAN 22 22 44
9- HENDERSON, BLAKE 23 21 44
8- PAHL, CHRISTIAN 22 22 44
7- GRABAU, BEN 23 22 45
6- KRAMER, CARTER 23 22 45
5- KRAMER, KYLE 22 23 45
4- CASSITY, FINNIAN 23 23 46
3-KRUKOW, BRAEDEN 21 25 46
2-KRAMER, KENZIE 23 24 47
1- LAWSON, BRECKEN 23 25 48
Today we celebrate our incredible food service team for School Lunch Hero Day! 🥪🍎
Thank you for the early mornings, the long hours, and the care you put into serving our students each and every day. You do so much more than prepare meals—you create a welcoming environment, build connections, and help fuel our students for success.
We are grateful for your hard work, positivity, and dedication to our school community. Please join us in thanking our lunch heroes today!
Thank you for the early mornings, the long hours, and the care you put into serving our students each and every day. You do so much more than prepare meals—you create a welcoming environment, build connections, and help fuel our students for success.
We are grateful for your hard work, positivity, and dedication to our school community. Please join us in thanking our lunch heroes today!
You’re Invited!
Join us for the PIHS Roots & Shoots Environmental Club Spring Open House of the Nature Play Trail!
Sunday, May 17 from 1:00–3:00 PM
Bring your family and come explore all the fun our Nature Play Trail has to offer!
Highlights include:
• Exploring the trail and interactive play stations
• Hands-on enrichment activities for kids
• Plant sale
• Live performances by the Farmers Market Ramblers
• Raffle drawing featuring a custom-built Mud Kitchen and other nature/outdoor-themed prizes
Come celebrate nature, play, and community with us—we hope to see you there!
We're Hiring!
POSITION: 1.0 Full Time Health and Physical Education Teacher
Date Posted: April 28, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Date Available: 2026-2027 school year
Closing Date: Until Filled
License Required: Appropriate MN Teaching License
Compensation:
Click here to view the 2025-27 teacher salary schedule. Rates for this position can be found on p. 31
This Position is Medical and/or Dental Benefit Eligible.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Pine Island Independent School District No. 255 is looking for a passionate, dedicated Health and Physical Education teacher, with DAPE preferred, to join our growing team. If you are eager to inspire students, build strong relationships, and be part of a thriving educational community, this 1.0 FTE continuing contract is the perfect opportunity for you.
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.
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. www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
POSITION: 1.0 Full Time Health and Physical Education Teacher
Date Posted: April 28, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Date Available: 2026-2027 school year
Closing Date: Until Filled
License Required: Appropriate MN Teaching License
Compensation:
Click here to view the 2025-27 teacher salary schedule. Rates for this position can be found on p. 31
This Position is Medical and/or Dental Benefit Eligible.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Pine Island Independent School District No. 255 is looking for a passionate, dedicated Health and Physical Education teacher, with DAPE preferred, to join our growing team. If you are eager to inspire students, build strong relationships, and be part of a thriving educational community, this 1.0 FTE continuing contract is the perfect opportunity for you.
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.
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. www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Get your tickets!
Pine Island Trap Team- Competition Week 1
Here are your Top Ten!
LAWSON, BRECKEN 23 24 47
KRAMER, CARTER 24 22 46
KRUKOW, BRAEDEN 23 22 45
MONAHAN, JAXON 24 21 45
BOE, RYAN 24 20 44
BERTSINGER, BENJAMIN 21 22 43
HUDSON, NOAH 21 22 43
KRAMER, KENZIE 21 22 43
REISINGER, ETHAN 19 24 43
SCHUTZ, TALON 20 23 43
Here are your Top Ten!
LAWSON, BRECKEN 23 24 47
KRAMER, CARTER 24 22 46
KRUKOW, BRAEDEN 23 22 45
MONAHAN, JAXON 24 21 45
BOE, RYAN 24 20 44
BERTSINGER, BENJAMIN 21 22 43
HUDSON, NOAH 21 22 43
KRAMER, KENZIE 21 22 43
REISINGER, ETHAN 19 24 43
SCHUTZ, TALON 20 23 43
Pine Island School District Families,
As you may know, Olmsted County is leading a project to reconstruct the bridge over the Middle Fork Zumbro River and also reconditioning the pavement south of the bridge to the County 5 Roundabout. Please read document for more information about this project and how it may affect transportation to and from school.
If this construction affects your students' school provided transportation, you will be contacted by the Pine Island School District Transportation department about any changes.
As you may know, Olmsted County is leading a project to reconstruct the bridge over the Middle Fork Zumbro River and also reconditioning the pavement south of the bridge to the County 5 Roundabout. Please read document for more information about this project and how it may affect transportation to and from school.
If this construction affects your students' school provided transportation, you will be contacted by the Pine Island School District Transportation department about any changes.
Now Hiring!
POSITION: Part- Time Evening Custodian
Date Posted: April 24, 2026
Closing Date: Open until filled
Location: Early Learning Center
Compensation:
Pay range for this position: $18.50 - $20.00 per hour, depending on qualifications
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Pine Island Independent School District No. 255 is looking for a passionate, dedicated Custodian to join our growing team.
Minimum Qualifications:
High School Graduate or equivalent
Some experience as a school custodian, or the equivalent in custodial service at other institutions & firms
Demonstrate knowledge & expertise in the basic techniques of custodial service
Strong Communication Skills – Both Verbal & Written
Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds
Also see “Physical Requirements” below
Performance Responsibilities:
This position performs a variety of custodial & maintenance duties in support of classroom & administrative operations. Responsibilities include, but may not be limited to, tasks required to maintain the cleanliness, good order, sanitary & secure condition of schools &/or administrative spaces. Incumbents must be capable of working reliably & independently to carry out assigned tasks & work schedules.
Job Duties:
Provides exceptional, customer-focused support to students, staff, & visitors by addressing needs promptly, communicating professionally, & fostering a welcoming & supportive environment
Performs routine maintenance, cleaning, & minor repairs of custodial & building equipment
Completes daily cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, waxing, & dusting
Cleans & sanitizes windows, restrooms, walls, floors, & furnishings
Collects & disposes of trash and debris; cleans & maintains waste receptacles
Assists with setup, rearrangement, & movement of furniture and equipment
Transports & delivers educational materials & supplies as needed
Operates custodial equipment, including vacuums, floor machines, buffers, & carpet cleaners
Assists with snow removal by clearing walkways and entrances & applying salt to prevent slipping hazards
Performs additional duties as assigned by the Buildings & Grounds Director
Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
All employees subject to hazards are equipped per OSHA standards
Subject to work with biohazard waste, hazards, vapors & odors from various chemicals
Subject to temperature changes while performing assigned duties
May be required to work in extreme hot & cold temperatures
Subject to work from elevated work surfaces
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, & the Zumbro River for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, & 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 & 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 Director of Buildings & Grounds at craig.english@pineisland.k12.mn.us Apply today and become part of a district that values you and your passion for excellence.
Hiring Administrator: Craig English, Director of Buildings & Grounds
POSITION: Part- Time Evening Custodian
Date Posted: April 24, 2026
Closing Date: Open until filled
Location: Early Learning Center
Compensation:
Pay range for this position: $18.50 - $20.00 per hour, depending on qualifications
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Pine Island Independent School District No. 255 is looking for a passionate, dedicated Custodian to join our growing team.
Minimum Qualifications:
High School Graduate or equivalent
Some experience as a school custodian, or the equivalent in custodial service at other institutions & firms
Demonstrate knowledge & expertise in the basic techniques of custodial service
Strong Communication Skills – Both Verbal & Written
Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds
Also see “Physical Requirements” below
Performance Responsibilities:
This position performs a variety of custodial & maintenance duties in support of classroom & administrative operations. Responsibilities include, but may not be limited to, tasks required to maintain the cleanliness, good order, sanitary & secure condition of schools &/or administrative spaces. Incumbents must be capable of working reliably & independently to carry out assigned tasks & work schedules.
Job Duties:
Provides exceptional, customer-focused support to students, staff, & visitors by addressing needs promptly, communicating professionally, & fostering a welcoming & supportive environment
Performs routine maintenance, cleaning, & minor repairs of custodial & building equipment
Completes daily cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, waxing, & dusting
Cleans & sanitizes windows, restrooms, walls, floors, & furnishings
Collects & disposes of trash and debris; cleans & maintains waste receptacles
Assists with setup, rearrangement, & movement of furniture and equipment
Transports & delivers educational materials & supplies as needed
Operates custodial equipment, including vacuums, floor machines, buffers, & carpet cleaners
Assists with snow removal by clearing walkways and entrances & applying salt to prevent slipping hazards
Performs additional duties as assigned by the Buildings & Grounds Director
Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
All employees subject to hazards are equipped per OSHA standards
Subject to work with biohazard waste, hazards, vapors & odors from various chemicals
Subject to temperature changes while performing assigned duties
May be required to work in extreme hot & cold temperatures
Subject to work from elevated work surfaces
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, & the Zumbro River for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, & 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 & 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 Director of Buildings & Grounds at craig.english@pineisland.k12.mn.us Apply today and become part of a district that values you and your passion for excellence.
Hiring Administrator: Craig English, Director of Buildings & Grounds
Prom is quickly approaching!
