Happy National School Social Work Week!
This week we recognize and celebrate the incredible work of our school social workers who support the academic success, emotional well-being, and overall growth of our students every single day.
From helping students navigate challenges to celebrating their successes, school social workers play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive, and positive environment for learning.
Thank you to our amazing school social workers for the care, advocacy, and encouragement you provide each day. Your work does not go unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for everything you do!
This week we recognize and celebrate the incredible work of our school social workers who support the academic success, emotional well-being, and overall growth of our students every single day.
From helping students navigate challenges to celebrating their successes, school social workers play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive, and positive environment for learning.
Thank you to our amazing school social workers for the care, advocacy, and encouragement you provide each day. Your work does not go unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for everything you do!
We're Hiring!
POSITION: Seasonal Grounds Assistant (6-month)
Date Posted: March 3, 2026
Closing Date: Open until filled
Location: District- Wide
Compensation: Pay range for this position: $18.50 - $20 per hour, depending on qualifications.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Pine Island Independent School District No. 255 is looking for a passionate, dedicated Grounds Assistant to join our growing team.
Minimum Qualifications:
High School Graduate or equivalent
Preferred two years experience in grounds maintenance
Drivers License
Strong Communication Skills – Both Verbal & Written
Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds (plus ability to lift 30 pounds above head) Also see “Physical Requirements” below
Performance Responsibilities:
This position supports the Grounds Lead in performing all district grounds maintenance activities under general supervision. Responsibilities include operating & maintaining grounds-related equipment & ensuring district properties are safe & well-maintained. This role requires flexibility, including working non-standard hours & assisting during special school events. The incumbent may also be called upon to provide coverage for absent Buildings & Grounds personnel. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.
Job Duties:
Safely operate hand tools, testing instruments & vehicles common to the trade
Irrigates, weed & pest controls, fertilizers, mows, aerates, seeds & renovates all district turf
Sweeps, repairs, seals cracks & controls vegetation growth in paved areas
Prunes, mulches, fertilizes, controls pests & renovates woody plants & flower beds
Prepares all fields for athletic events as scheduled by the Athletic Director
Cleans grounds after athletic events
Adjusts, lubricates, cleans & repairs all grounds equipment. Prepares lawn equipment for use
Removes & transports special equipment from school to school
Inspects & repairs playground equipment & surfaces
Supports all central maintenance activities as defined by the Director of Buildings & Grounds
Additional Duties: Substitutes for custodians as assigned by the Buildings & Grounds Director. Performs all tasks of the assigned position.
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
May be subject to work with hazardous chemicals, including pesticides & herbicides
Subject to temperature changes while performing assigned duties
May be required to work in extreme hot & cold temperatures
Subject to work in confined spaces
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, 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 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
Application Procedure: www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Please upload a letter of interest, resume and professional recommendations with your online application.
POSITION: Seasonal Grounds Assistant (6-month)
Date Posted: March 3, 2026
Closing Date: Open until filled
Location: District- Wide
Compensation: Pay range for this position: $18.50 - $20 per hour, depending on qualifications.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Pine Island Independent School District No. 255 is looking for a passionate, dedicated Grounds Assistant to join our growing team.
Minimum Qualifications:
High School Graduate or equivalent
Preferred two years experience in grounds maintenance
Drivers License
Strong Communication Skills – Both Verbal & Written
Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds (plus ability to lift 30 pounds above head) Also see “Physical Requirements” below
Performance Responsibilities:
This position supports the Grounds Lead in performing all district grounds maintenance activities under general supervision. Responsibilities include operating & maintaining grounds-related equipment & ensuring district properties are safe & well-maintained. This role requires flexibility, including working non-standard hours & assisting during special school events. The incumbent may also be called upon to provide coverage for absent Buildings & Grounds personnel. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.
Job Duties:
Safely operate hand tools, testing instruments & vehicles common to the trade
Irrigates, weed & pest controls, fertilizers, mows, aerates, seeds & renovates all district turf
Sweeps, repairs, seals cracks & controls vegetation growth in paved areas
Prunes, mulches, fertilizes, controls pests & renovates woody plants & flower beds
Prepares all fields for athletic events as scheduled by the Athletic Director
Cleans grounds after athletic events
Adjusts, lubricates, cleans & repairs all grounds equipment. Prepares lawn equipment for use
Removes & transports special equipment from school to school
Inspects & repairs playground equipment & surfaces
Supports all central maintenance activities as defined by the Director of Buildings & Grounds
Additional Duties: Substitutes for custodians as assigned by the Buildings & Grounds Director. Performs all tasks of the assigned position.
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
May be subject to work with hazardous chemicals, including pesticides & herbicides
Subject to temperature changes while performing assigned duties
May be required to work in extreme hot & cold temperatures
Subject to work in confined spaces
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, 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 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
Application Procedure: www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Please upload a letter of interest, resume and professional recommendations with your online application.
Pine Island Trap Team- All trap registration forms are due to Mr. Smith by Wed. 3-4. If you plan on shooting this spring, get your form in!
⏰ Reminder: Daylight Saving Time Begins March 8th!
Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed on Saturday, March 7th. We “spring forward” and lose an hour of sleep, but gain more evening daylight!
Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed on Saturday, March 7th. We “spring forward” and lose an hour of sleep, but gain more evening daylight!
We are so excited to announce that the new play boat is officially at the Nature Play Trail! This incredible addition is ready for adventure and hours of creative play. This boat is sure to become a favorite destination on the trail!
This project truly showcases the power of community, and we have so many people to thank:
🚤 Thank you to Matt and Kayla Stoneback for donating the amazing play boat. Your generosity is giving children a one-of-a-kind play experience in nature!
🪨 A huge THANK YOU to Custom Retaining Walls for the generous donation of pea gravel to create a safe and sturdy landing area around the boat.
🚜 We are incredibly grateful to Lodermeier's for accepting the challenge of moving this boat. It was no small task, and the expertise of Joe and Parker made it possible!
❤️ And thank you to the 14 generous community members who contributed financially to help cover the cost of moving the boat. Your support proves once again how much this community believes in outdoor play and the Nature Play Trail.
⚓ While the boat is officially in place, there is still a little work to be done! We’re looking to replace the sides and windows to make it more weatherproof and durable for years of play ahead. Anyone with skills want to help with this next phase of the project?!
Safety Reminder: Adult supervision is required at all times while children are playing on the boat. Smaller children will absolutely need help from an adult getting into the driver’s seat and moving around safely. Thank you for helping us keep this space fun and safe for everyone!
We’re looking forward to hosting an official Grand Opening this spring once the finishing touches are complete. Stay tuned for details — we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
If you haven't been to the Nature Play Trail, go check it out! The trail was created by students in EcoliteracySCHOOL (Students Collaborating in Health Oriented Outdoor Learning) and Roots and Shoots Environmental Club.
As you visit, we kindly ask that you help us keep the trail welcoming and beautiful for all:
- Please return loose parts and materials to their designated areas.
- Pack out any trash you bring in (there is a trash can available near the entrance of the trail).
- Treat the space, materials, and natural surroundings with care
- Being that this is a nature area with kids at play, we ask that you do not bring dogs to the trail. Pine Island has several dog parks for them to enjoy :)
- Adult supervision is required at all times.
The Nature Play Trail exists because of the incredible support of volunteers and generous donations from our community. It truly is built by the students, for the community. Your respect and care help ensure it stays safe, clean, and full of opportunities for play.
Thank you for helping us preserve this special place. We can’t wait to see you on the trail!
If you have questions about the trail or would like to become a supporter, please contact Megan Schimek at meschimek@pineisland.k12.mn.us
This project truly showcases the power of community, and we have so many people to thank:
🚤 Thank you to Matt and Kayla Stoneback for donating the amazing play boat. Your generosity is giving children a one-of-a-kind play experience in nature!
🪨 A huge THANK YOU to Custom Retaining Walls for the generous donation of pea gravel to create a safe and sturdy landing area around the boat.
🚜 We are incredibly grateful to Lodermeier's for accepting the challenge of moving this boat. It was no small task, and the expertise of Joe and Parker made it possible!
❤️ And thank you to the 14 generous community members who contributed financially to help cover the cost of moving the boat. Your support proves once again how much this community believes in outdoor play and the Nature Play Trail.
⚓ While the boat is officially in place, there is still a little work to be done! We’re looking to replace the sides and windows to make it more weatherproof and durable for years of play ahead. Anyone with skills want to help with this next phase of the project?!
Safety Reminder: Adult supervision is required at all times while children are playing on the boat. Smaller children will absolutely need help from an adult getting into the driver’s seat and moving around safely. Thank you for helping us keep this space fun and safe for everyone!
We’re looking forward to hosting an official Grand Opening this spring once the finishing touches are complete. Stay tuned for details — we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
If you haven't been to the Nature Play Trail, go check it out! The trail was created by students in EcoliteracySCHOOL (Students Collaborating in Health Oriented Outdoor Learning) and Roots and Shoots Environmental Club.
As you visit, we kindly ask that you help us keep the trail welcoming and beautiful for all:
- Please return loose parts and materials to their designated areas.
- Pack out any trash you bring in (there is a trash can available near the entrance of the trail).
- Treat the space, materials, and natural surroundings with care
- Being that this is a nature area with kids at play, we ask that you do not bring dogs to the trail. Pine Island has several dog parks for them to enjoy :)
- Adult supervision is required at all times.
The Nature Play Trail exists because of the incredible support of volunteers and generous donations from our community. It truly is built by the students, for the community. Your respect and care help ensure it stays safe, clean, and full of opportunities for play.
Thank you for helping us preserve this special place. We can’t wait to see you on the trail!
If you have questions about the trail or would like to become a supporter, please contact Megan Schimek at meschimek@pineisland.k12.mn.us
⏰ It’s not too late to sign up! We’re getting closer to reaching our next goal of $45,000 for technology and school needs, but we need your help to cross the finish line!
Sign up at MyBooster.com today.
✅ Just a few minutes of your time can make a BIG difference!
SCHOOL PROFIT: $42,014!!!!
Only $3,000 away from Mr. Westphal SHAVING his head!
Thank YOU!
Sign up at MyBooster.com today.
✅ Just a few minutes of your time can make a BIG difference!
SCHOOL PROFIT: $42,014!!!!
Only $3,000 away from Mr. Westphal SHAVING his head!
Thank YOU!
It's that time of the year for our annual flower fundraiser.
Support the Pine Island 8th Graders as they start on Friday, February 27th selling flowers to raise money for their Washington DC trip this summer.
Don't know an 8th grader. No problem, call the Pine Island Community Education office at (507) 356-8876.
Support the Pine Island 8th Graders as they start on Friday, February 27th selling flowers to raise money for their Washington DC trip this summer.
Don't know an 8th grader. No problem, call the Pine Island Community Education office at (507) 356-8876.
📅 Mark your calendars!
📢 Pine Island Public Schools Preschool registration will be opening for the 2026-27 school year. Registration will be ONLINE and available for you to register starting Monday, March 2nd at 8am.
💻How do I register online?
Prior to registration opening, please make sure you have set up your account with Arbiter (Community Ed registration website). If you have an account already, make sure to check that you can access your account. Check your user name, password and update your child's information. If you do not have one, select New User and create your account.
Directions are listed below.
🖱Go to www.pineislandce.com
Click on My Account in the upper right hand corner
Click on Returning User or New Users
‼️On Monday March 2nd at 8am, the preschool offerings will be listed under the Preschool tab for you to register.
🖍 For more information on preschool options and registration, please see attached images.
📢 Pine Island Public Schools Preschool registration will be opening for the 2026-27 school year. Registration will be ONLINE and available for you to register starting Monday, March 2nd at 8am.
💻How do I register online?
Prior to registration opening, please make sure you have set up your account with Arbiter (Community Ed registration website). If you have an account already, make sure to check that you can access your account. Check your user name, password and update your child's information. If you do not have one, select New User and create your account.
Directions are listed below.
🖱Go to www.pineislandce.com
Click on My Account in the upper right hand corner
Click on Returning User or New Users
‼️On Monday March 2nd at 8am, the preschool offerings will be listed under the Preschool tab for you to register.
🖍 For more information on preschool options and registration, please see attached images.
Come watch what is sure to be an amazing show!
Due to conflicts with dress rehearsal week for Oklahoma and the PAC meetings, the Spain/France trip meetings for 2028 that were Tuesday and Wednesday this week have been postponed to next week. We will meet Monday 3/2 and Wednesday 3/4 at 5:30 pm in the high school art room. We hope to see you there!
The artwork of 9 PIHS students is being exhibited in the fifteenth Annual Southeast Minnesota High School Art Show at the Rochester Art Center. The exhibition will be on view from Wednesday, February 18 - Saturday, April 4, 2026. Congratulations to Lilly Quest, Phoebe Hoff, Sarah Olson, Kai Wernau, Kyle Stelzer, Alex Gonsalves, Natalie Borgschatz, Evy Cook and Olive Jessen!
POSITION: 1.0 Full Time High School Math Teacher
Date Posted: February 23, 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 2023-25 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 high school Math teacher 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
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
Date Posted: February 23, 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 2023-25 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 high school Math teacher 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
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
Career and Technical Education (CTE) in schools provides students with hands-on learning in specific careers. CTE programs help students build practical skills, earn industry certifications, & explore career pathways while in high school, preparing them for college, apprenticeships, or direct entry into the workforce. Thank you to PI's Career and Technical Educators!
Congratulations to Pine Island Wrestling coaches, Coltan Laganiere and Jason Elsmore! Coltan was named the Section 1AA Head Coach of the Year, and Jason was named the Section 1AA Assistant Coach of the Year! This is a well deserved honor for both of these guys who have worked tirelessly to build up the Pine Island Wrestling program over the years! Congratulations Coltan and Jason!
💫Mr. Johnson, our amazing Innovative Arts Teacher at Pine Island Middle School, has been selected as the 2025-26 Educator of the Year by STEM Forward! 💫 Please make sure to click the link in the comment from Mrs. Schafer to watch the video honoring Mr. Johnson.
Congratulations to Zach Breitenstein and Lilly Quest for singing in the MN All-State Choirs for their performance on February 14.
Check out our informational meeting about our Spain and France trip for our current 7th-12th graders.
Congratulations to Ellen Stapleton who qualified for the State Gymnastics meet on Saturday! Good luck Elle!
Spring PAC Meetings
“Put your money where your boat is?”
Wait… that’s not the saying. But it does work here.
Donate to help move a BOAT to the Nature Play Trail—so kids can play on it in the forest?
YEP!
A generous community member has donated a play riverboat, and we’re thrilled to add it to the Pine Island Nature Play Trail as a new space for imaginative, open-ended play. Pirate ship. Fishing boat. River explorer. The possibilities are endless!
The only challenge? Boats aren’t easy to move. It takes an expert with specialized equipment. After lots of searching and consulting, Lodermeier’s out of Goodhue is willing to help make it happen 🙌 (for a very fair price!)—we just need help covering the cost.
We need $480 more to reach our moving goal.
Every donation—big or small—helps get this boat to its forever home on the trail.
Want to help move this boat?
➡️ Donate any amount https://pineisland.revtrak.net/hs-nature-play-trail-donations/
➡️ Share this post
➡️ Help us turn imagination into reality
Let’s get ready to play!
Wait… that’s not the saying. But it does work here.
Donate to help move a BOAT to the Nature Play Trail—so kids can play on it in the forest?
YEP!
A generous community member has donated a play riverboat, and we’re thrilled to add it to the Pine Island Nature Play Trail as a new space for imaginative, open-ended play. Pirate ship. Fishing boat. River explorer. The possibilities are endless!
The only challenge? Boats aren’t easy to move. It takes an expert with specialized equipment. After lots of searching and consulting, Lodermeier’s out of Goodhue is willing to help make it happen 🙌 (for a very fair price!)—we just need help covering the cost.
We need $480 more to reach our moving goal.
Every donation—big or small—helps get this boat to its forever home on the trail.
Want to help move this boat?
➡️ Donate any amount https://pineisland.revtrak.net/hs-nature-play-trail-donations/
➡️ Share this post
➡️ Help us turn imagination into reality
Let’s get ready to play!
