New Podcast Episode on the Panther Pulse
Real talk about mental health, recovery, and choosing to stay.
“I didn’t think I’d make it to 18”: Kristen Harootunian on Hope, Healing, and Asking for Help.
https://youtube.com/shorts/AihHTihPoAE?feature=shared
Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1zkKO5uAZQpdNFHD5FuyNW?si=r0QGtlkEQ5O0PTTW1Pxxnw
Real talk about mental health, recovery, and choosing to stay.
“I didn’t think I’d make it to 18”: Kristen Harootunian on Hope, Healing, and Asking for Help.
https://youtube.com/shorts/AihHTihPoAE?feature=shared
Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1zkKO5uAZQpdNFHD5FuyNW?si=r0QGtlkEQ5O0PTTW1Pxxnw
School Psychologist (1.0 FTE)
Position: School Psychologist
Date Posted: 02/02/2026
Location: Pine Island Public School District
Date of Availability: 2026-2027 School Year
Date Closing: Until Filled
Pine Island Public Schools is currently seeking a qualified School Psychologist for the 2026-2027 school year. The school is located 11 miles from Rochester, Minnesota, and serves approximately 1,550 PK-12 students. The chosen candidate will play a crucial role in assessing academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs through standardized evaluations and formal and informal problem-solving methods.
Job Summary:
The School Psychologist will serve as the district School Psychologist and the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) coordinator, overseeing and facilitating Problem Solving Team meetings and Student Study Team meetings, and overseeing all special education initial and re-evaluations.
Key responsibilities include:
Development of evaluation and reevaluation plans for students with disabilities in collaboration with special education teachers.
Administration of various psychological assessments to determine special education eligibility.
Documentation of findings in written and oral reports for staff and parents.
Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments when appropriate.
Leading evaluation meetings and weekly student study team meetings.
Collaboration with general and special education staff for behavior programming.
Conducting behavior observations and implementing interventions compatible with student needs.
Recommending and assisting in implementing pre-referral intervention strategies.
Providing professional development and training to district staff on behavior management and programming.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Ed.S. in School Psychology or comparable; valid MN licensure as a School Psychologist.
Knowledge of special education due process procedures and criteria.
Knowledge of the Multi Tiered Systems of Support and interventions
Effective written and oral communication skills.
Preferred experience or current certification in CPI, Safety Care, or Ukeru.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary & Health Insurance: Starting salary of $80,996 to $105,000, depending on experience and education, with district contributions for health, and dental.
Additional Perks: Paid time off, paid holidays, retirement benefits, and opportunities for ongoing professional development.
Interested applicants must complete an online application using Frontline at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us under “District - Apply for a Job”. If you have any questions please contact Luke May, Human Resources Specialist at luke.may@pineisland.k12.mn.us
Position: School Psychologist
Date Posted: 02/02/2026
Location: Pine Island Public School District
Date of Availability: 2026-2027 School Year
Date Closing: Until Filled
Pine Island Public Schools is currently seeking a qualified School Psychologist for the 2026-2027 school year. The school is located 11 miles from Rochester, Minnesota, and serves approximately 1,550 PK-12 students. The chosen candidate will play a crucial role in assessing academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs through standardized evaluations and formal and informal problem-solving methods.
Job Summary:
The School Psychologist will serve as the district School Psychologist and the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) coordinator, overseeing and facilitating Problem Solving Team meetings and Student Study Team meetings, and overseeing all special education initial and re-evaluations.
Key responsibilities include:
Development of evaluation and reevaluation plans for students with disabilities in collaboration with special education teachers.
Administration of various psychological assessments to determine special education eligibility.
Documentation of findings in written and oral reports for staff and parents.
Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments when appropriate.
Leading evaluation meetings and weekly student study team meetings.
Collaboration with general and special education staff for behavior programming.
Conducting behavior observations and implementing interventions compatible with student needs.
Recommending and assisting in implementing pre-referral intervention strategies.
Providing professional development and training to district staff on behavior management and programming.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Ed.S. in School Psychology or comparable; valid MN licensure as a School Psychologist.
Knowledge of special education due process procedures and criteria.
Knowledge of the Multi Tiered Systems of Support and interventions
Effective written and oral communication skills.
Preferred experience or current certification in CPI, Safety Care, or Ukeru.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary & Health Insurance: Starting salary of $80,996 to $105,000, depending on experience and education, with district contributions for health, and dental.
Additional Perks: Paid time off, paid holidays, retirement benefits, and opportunities for ongoing professional development.
Interested applicants must complete an online application using Frontline at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us under “District - Apply for a Job”. If you have any questions please contact Luke May, Human Resources Specialist at luke.may@pineisland.k12.mn.us
We're Hiring!
JH Softball Coach
Position Type: Coach
Date Posted: February 3, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Work day/Year: Spring season (March-May)
Closing Date For Applications: Until Filled
Compensation: Salary per 2023-2025 Master Agreement (Page 34) 2025–26 contract pending negotiation.
Job Summary: Independent School District #255 Pine Island is seeking a coach in our softball program. Pine Island Schools is a growing district with over 1,500 students, and is located ten minutes north of Rochester. An online application is required. www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Qualifications:
Current Minnesota teaching license is preferred but not required. Coaching experience is preferred but not required.
Check out the first of three Kindergarten Round-up videos
https://youtube.com/shorts/FRn0pE0HiYc?si=t7XFua-ihgGvBe0d
https://youtube.com/shorts/FRn0pE0HiYc?si=t7XFua-ihgGvBe0d
With appreciation of our school counselors,
Your guidance, compassion, and advocacy make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students every day. You support academic growth, social-emotional well-being, and personal development—often stepping in at just the right moment when students need encouragement, clarity, or someone to listen. You meet the negative energy that can be a part of your job with care and compassion, often creating the safest space for students whose lives need stability or a trusted adult.
Thank you for the dedication and professionalism you bring to your essential role. Your impact reaches far beyond your office, and we are truly grateful for all that you do.
Your guidance, compassion, and advocacy make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students every day. You support academic growth, social-emotional well-being, and personal development—often stepping in at just the right moment when students need encouragement, clarity, or someone to listen. You meet the negative energy that can be a part of your job with care and compassion, often creating the safest space for students whose lives need stability or a trusted adult.
Thank you for the dedication and professionalism you bring to your essential role. Your impact reaches far beyond your office, and we are truly grateful for all that you do.
Kindergarten Round-Up is coming!
We will be hosting KG Round-Up on February 20. Please see the attached link for all the details and registration information. We can’t wait to welcome our newest learners!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IrK8iO_lXWUp0br9Xu3YbW_JaGGwetXKxpTvr3addzk/edit?usp=sharing
We will be hosting KG Round-Up on February 20. Please see the attached link for all the details and registration information. We can’t wait to welcome our newest learners!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IrK8iO_lXWUp0br9Xu3YbW_JaGGwetXKxpTvr3addzk/edit?usp=sharing
Congratulations to the Pine Island Baseball players and coaches as they were named the Male Team of the Year at the Rochester Sports Banquet on Sunday night!
Thanks for the PIHS Roots and Shoots Environmental Club and the PIMS Conservation Crew for teaming up to create a magical luminary trail for this weekends Winter Fest.
Thanks to all who came out to enjoy it!
Thanks to all who came out to enjoy it!
We're Hiring!
Students in Medical Interventions stepped into the role of diagnostic lab scientists as they learned about—and completed—ELISA tests on a group of fictional college students to detect the presence of bacterial meningitis. Through this real-world lab experience, students practiced analyzing data, interpreting results, and connecting lab techniques to how diseases are diagnosed in clinical settings.
We're Hiring!
Part-Time/Sub Adult Childcare Assistant
Date Posted: January 23, 2026
Location: Early Learning Center and Elementary
Workday: varies Mon-Fri
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Job Summary: Independent School District #255, Pine Island Childcare is seeking a part-time/sub adult assistant to supervise children 33months – 6th grade in our childcare program. This position will assist and work closely with the Lead Teacher in the classroom with a variety of tasks while providing high quality childcare. The Pine Island School District childcare program has seen consistent growth for many years and offers many great opportunities for both students and staff. This position is year round.
Qualification Requirements: High School Diploma
Qualification Preferred: Associated Degree or equivalent preferably in child development and experience supervising children
Pay and Compensation: Range of pay $18.22-$19.33
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Part-Time/Sub Adult Childcare Assistant
Date Posted: January 23, 2026
Location: Early Learning Center and Elementary
Workday: varies Mon-Fri
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Job Summary: Independent School District #255, Pine Island Childcare is seeking a part-time/sub adult assistant to supervise children 33months – 6th grade in our childcare program. This position will assist and work closely with the Lead Teacher in the classroom with a variety of tasks while providing high quality childcare. The Pine Island School District childcare program has seen consistent growth for many years and offers many great opportunities for both students and staff. This position is year round.
Qualification Requirements: High School Diploma
Qualification Preferred: Associated Degree or equivalent preferably in child development and experience supervising children
Pay and Compensation: Range of pay $18.22-$19.33
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
We're Hiring!
Full-Time Adult Childcare Assistant
Date Posted: January 23, 2026
Location: Early Learning Center and Elementary
Workday: Monday-Friday
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Job Summary: Independent School District #255, Pine Island Childcare is seeking a full-time adult assistant to supervise children 33months – 6th grade in our childcare program. This position will assist and work closely with the Lead Teacher in the classroom with a variety of tasks while providing high quality childcare. The Pine Island School District childcare program has seen consistent growth for many years and offers many great opportunities for both students and staff. This position is year round.
Qualification Requirements: High School Diploma
Qualification Preferred: Associated Degree or equivalent preferably in child development and experience supervising children
Pay and Compensation: Pay Range: $18.22-$19.33, benefits package
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Full-Time Adult Childcare Assistant
Date Posted: January 23, 2026
Location: Early Learning Center and Elementary
Workday: Monday-Friday
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Job Summary: Independent School District #255, Pine Island Childcare is seeking a full-time adult assistant to supervise children 33months – 6th grade in our childcare program. This position will assist and work closely with the Lead Teacher in the classroom with a variety of tasks while providing high quality childcare. The Pine Island School District childcare program has seen consistent growth for many years and offers many great opportunities for both students and staff. This position is year round.
Qualification Requirements: High School Diploma
Qualification Preferred: Associated Degree or equivalent preferably in child development and experience supervising children
Pay and Compensation: Pay Range: $18.22-$19.33, benefits package
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Kindergarten Round-Up is coming!
We will be hosting KG Round-Up on February 20. Please see the attached link for all the details and registration information. We can’t wait to welcome our newest learners!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IrK8iO_lXWUp0br9Xu3YbW_JaGGwetXKxpTvr3addzk/edit?usp=sharing
Due to extreme weather conditions, Pine Island schools will be closed on Friday, January 23rd.
📚 This will be an E-Learning day for all students.
🧒 Childcare will remain open from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM at the Early Learning Center.
🏀 Evening activities and games will still take place as scheduled.
Please stay safe and warm, and thank you for your understanding!
📚 This will be an E-Learning day for all students.
🧒 Childcare will remain open from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM at the Early Learning Center.
🏀 Evening activities and games will still take place as scheduled.
Please stay safe and warm, and thank you for your understanding!
The 2026 Pine Island School Spelling Bee was held on Tuesday, January 20, in the school auditorium. Eight students from grades 6–8 competed in the school bee after winning their respective grade-level classroom bees the previous week. After eight rounds of competition, Liliana McCauley (6th grade) emerged triumphant, correctly spelling compunction. The first runner-up was Marissa Kautzer (8th grade), and the second runner-up was Suhanya Sharma (6th grade). Other competitors included 7th graders Ainsley Fox, Paige Leis-Madison, and Emma Kellendar, as well as 8th graders Ayla Miller and Chase Hoffman. Liliana will advance to the next level of competition at the Regional Bee on February 10, at the Southeast Service Cooperative in Rochester.
Pine Island FAMILY Desired Daily Experience Survey 2026
Feedback on Your Desired Daily Experience
A planning team is working to draft an updated, districtwide operational plan to guide the work of Pine Island Public Schools in the years ahead. An important part of this process is hearing directly from families about what you want your daily experience with the district to be like. Your feedback, along with input from students and staff through separate surveys, will help shape the direction of this work.
Please watch for an email containing the survey link and take a few moments to share your feedback. Your voice matters, and your input will help inform decisions moving forward.
The survey is due by January 30. Thank you for taking the time to support Pine Island Public Schools and for partnering with us in this important work.
Feedback on Your Desired Daily Experience
A planning team is working to draft an updated, districtwide operational plan to guide the work of Pine Island Public Schools in the years ahead. An important part of this process is hearing directly from families about what you want your daily experience with the district to be like. Your feedback, along with input from students and staff through separate surveys, will help shape the direction of this work.
Please watch for an email containing the survey link and take a few moments to share your feedback. Your voice matters, and your input will help inform decisions moving forward.
The survey is due by January 30. Thank you for taking the time to support Pine Island Public Schools and for partnering with us in this important work.
Happy Paraprofessional Week!
We proudly recognize and celebrate our Paraprofessionals for their dedication, compassion, and the vital role they play in supporting our students and school community. Your work matters, and we thank you for all you do!
We proudly recognize and celebrate our Paraprofessionals for their dedication, compassion, and the vital role they play in supporting our students and school community. Your work matters, and we thank you for all you do!
🤩We are excited to welcome parents to our Preschool Information Night! Whether you’re just starting to explore preschool options or are ready to enroll, we’d love to connect with you, share what we offer, and help you feel confident and excited about what’s ahead.
During the evening, you’ll have the chance to:
-Explore our classrooms and learning spaces
-Meet ELC Teachers and Staff
-Learn about our 2026-2027 preschool offerings
-Ask questions and gather helpful information as you plan for your child’s journey at the Early Learning Center
During the evening, you’ll have the chance to:
-Explore our classrooms and learning spaces
-Meet ELC Teachers and Staff
-Learn about our 2026-2027 preschool offerings
-Ask questions and gather helpful information as you plan for your child’s journey at the Early Learning Center
MSHSBCA ceremony honoring the baseball Coach’s for 2025. Congratulations to Pine Island Baseball coach, Dan Drazan!
Kindergarten Round-Up is coming!
We will be hosting KG Round-Up on February 20. Please see the attached link for all the details and registration information. We can’t wait to welcome our newest learners!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IrK8iO_lXWUp0br9Xu3YbW_JaGGwetXKxpTvr3addzk/edit?usp=sharing