1) Pine Island Lego Robotics kids in the Post Bulletin! (Pictured are several of our Pine Island teams working!)
2) One of our teams placed in the top 3! The Team "The Lego People" included Derek Weis, Isaiah Caskey, Isaac Geier
Advanced Long Term:
Stewartville: Project Ted Gen 2
Schaeffer Academy: That Team
Pine Island: The Lego People
2) One of our teams placed in the top 3! The Team "The Lego People" included Derek Weis, Isaiah Caskey, Isaac Geier
Advanced Long Term:
Stewartville: Project Ted Gen 2
Schaeffer Academy: That Team
Pine Island: The Lego People
The PIHS TZD chapter spent this week decorating classroom doors with messages of positivity. The mission of TZD (Toward Zero Deaths) is to help students avoid destructive decisions. Here’s a sample of just some of the many doors!
Pine Island Schools will run 2 hours late due to the weather and road conditions. Childcare will open at 7:00 am at the Early Learning Center only. No AM preschool.
Due to the weather, tonight's (Tuesday 12/9) Spain/France information meeting has been canceled. We will still meet tomorrow night (Wednesday) 12/10 at 7 pm in the art room and will schedule a makeup night for tonight's canceled meeting at a later date.
Pine Island Schools will be dismissing early today due to National Weather Service forecasts.
Early Learning Center and Elementary: Dismissal at 2:00 PM
Grades 5–12: Dismissal at 2:15 PM
Daycare will close at 4:00 PM at normal locations.
A reminder that all evening activities are cancelled.
Early Learning Center and Elementary: Dismissal at 2:00 PM
Grades 5–12: Dismissal at 2:15 PM
Daycare will close at 4:00 PM at normal locations.
A reminder that all evening activities are cancelled.
Evening Activities Cancelled-December 9th, 2025
Due to forecasted weather conditions late afternoon and early evening, all evening activities for today have been cancelled.
As we continue to monitor the weather closely we will communicate any additional changes to today’s school day schedule as soon as possible. Please stay tuned for further information.
Due to forecasted weather conditions late afternoon and early evening, all evening activities for today have been cancelled.
As we continue to monitor the weather closely we will communicate any additional changes to today’s school day schedule as soon as possible. Please stay tuned for further information.
Spanish classes are planning a trip to Spain and France for the summer of 2028! Cities include Madrid, Burgos, San Sebastian, and Paris! We are having two interest meetings this month in the art room on Tuesday, December 9 at 5:30 pm and Wednesday, December 10 at 7:00 pm. The meetings will go over the same information so you only need to come to one or the other. See Ms. Stai or Mrs. Wernau for questions or more information. Hope to see you there!
We are thrilled to announce that Larissa Kabat has been named the Pine Island Schools 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year!
Please join us in celebrating this amazing accomplishment—congratulations, Larissa!
Please join us in celebrating this amazing accomplishment—congratulations, Larissa!
Hello Pine Island Community!
Now that it looks like we may have a Minnesota winter, the 5-12 SOP ("Support Our Panthers") resource room is in need of winter gear, in particular snow pants and boots.
If you are willing to help, please contact Cait Carr to inquire about specific donations at cait.carr@pineisland.k12.mn.us.
Thank you!
Now that it looks like we may have a Minnesota winter, the 5-12 SOP ("Support Our Panthers") resource room is in need of winter gear, in particular snow pants and boots.
If you are willing to help, please contact Cait Carr to inquire about specific donations at cait.carr@pineisland.k12.mn.us.
Thank you!
Students in the Introduction to Visual Arts SMSU College Now class visited the Minneapolis Institute of Art to research, draw, and write an art analysis paper. It was inspirational to watch them slow down, examine and really connect with a work of art they chose.
Check out the New Podcast Episode!
Great conversation with Dr. Josh Stein, child psychiatrist, clinic director, and youth mental health advocate, on the difference between healthy striving and perfectionism in today’s teens.
The Pressure to Be Perfect.png
In this episode, Tom Horner and Dr. Stein cover:
-What’s driving perfectionism right now
-How adults can recognize early warning signs
-Practical tools to support healthy motivation and balance
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!
https://open.spotify.com/episode/6uAAEUtO4b7mAYDnDT87SA?si=3goQcaIoTmunbn_23bX_tA&nd=1&dlsi=50ac21e186414e77
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pressure-to-be-perfect-what-we-really-need-instead/id1674911368?i=1000739292593
Great conversation with Dr. Josh Stein, child psychiatrist, clinic director, and youth mental health advocate, on the difference between healthy striving and perfectionism in today’s teens.
The Pressure to Be Perfect.png
In this episode, Tom Horner and Dr. Stein cover:
-What’s driving perfectionism right now
-How adults can recognize early warning signs
-Practical tools to support healthy motivation and balance
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!
https://open.spotify.com/episode/6uAAEUtO4b7mAYDnDT87SA?si=3goQcaIoTmunbn_23bX_tA&nd=1&dlsi=50ac21e186414e77
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pressure-to-be-perfect-what-we-really-need-instead/id1674911368?i=1000739292593
Students in the PLTW Human Body Systems class used blood pressure cuffs and fetal Doppler ultrasounds to measure their Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) — a comparison of blood pressure in the arms versus the ankles.
The ABI is a simple, noninvasive test that helps detect issues with blood flow and can be used to diagnose conditions such as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). By practicing this procedure, students not only learned how the cardiovascular system functions, but also gained experience interpreting real data.
The ABI is a simple, noninvasive test that helps detect issues with blood flow and can be used to diagnose conditions such as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). By practicing this procedure, students not only learned how the cardiovascular system functions, but also gained experience interpreting real data.
Early Dismissal-Early Learning Center Only
Dear Pine Island Families and Staff,
Out of an abundance of caution, we are dismissing all students and childcare at the Early Learning Center this afternoon. Please pick up as soon as possible at the high school forum room Door #27 across the street from the ELC. This is due to a report of a concerning smell that could indicate a gas leak. The Pine Island Fire Department and the District are investigating.
All other buildings will dismiss on schedule.
We will keep you updated as we learn more. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Sincerely,
Barry Schmidt
Superintendent
Dear Pine Island Families and Staff,
Out of an abundance of caution, we are dismissing all students and childcare at the Early Learning Center this afternoon. Please pick up as soon as possible at the high school forum room Door #27 across the street from the ELC. This is due to a report of a concerning smell that could indicate a gas leak. The Pine Island Fire Department and the District are investigating.
All other buildings will dismiss on schedule.
We will keep you updated as we learn more. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Sincerely,
Barry Schmidt
Superintendent
Hey Pine Island Families!
We've got 5 days left for you to donate items to our Pine Island Holiday Toy/Gift Drive. Please consider donating to this AMAZING program, it touches more lives than you could ever imagine right here in Pine Island!
We've got 5 days left for you to donate items to our Pine Island Holiday Toy/Gift Drive. Please consider donating to this AMAZING program, it touches more lives than you could ever imagine right here in Pine Island!
Today marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). On this day, the nation commemorates the progress made in special education since the law guaranteed every child with a disability the right to a free and appropriate public education. It's a day to recognize the contributions of students, teachers, and staff, and to reaffirm a commitment to equity and inclusion in education.
Grandparent Bingo is back!
Tuesday, December 23
9:00 a.m. arrival
9:15 - 10:45 a.m. BINGO
Pine Island High School Cafeteria
Coffee and snacks will be served.
Please RSVP by Monday, December 15
SIGN UP LINK:
https://forms.gle/WnUekaVwg97bQAhk9
After Bingo, you are invited to watch a holiday theatrical performance in the auditorium with your special student from 11:00 -11:40 AM. This play will be performed by students in the Pine Island High School Theater class. There will then be a Student Council presentation from 11:40-12:10 pm that you are welcome to stay for or depart after the play. At 12:42 PM, students will be dismissed after lunch or 12:12 if they have an honors pass.
Guidelines for Keeping Children Home from School
Many parents are unsure when children should stay home from school. Resting helps the body fight illness and prevents the spread of contagious infections to others. Here are some guidelines from Olmsted County Public Health to help parents decide if their child should stay home. Children should remain at home if they exhibit the following conditions:
● Severe cold, cough, or sore throat
● Eye infections, especially if discharge is present
● New skin rashes, especially if draining, unless medical opinion states rash is non-communicable
● Body temperature of 100.0°F or more, with or without symptoms
● Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
● Any other sign of acute illness/not feeling well enough to participate in daily activities
● Until the result of the throat culture is known
Children May Return to School After Being Ill When:
● Temperature remains normal for 24 hours without using a fever-reducing medication such as
Tylenol or Motrin
● No vomiting or diarrhea occurs for 24 hours
● Taking prescribed antibiotics for 24 hours
● Your medical provider has advised the safe return to school
● Feeling well enough to participate in usual school activities
If you are unsure, please contact your school nurse with any questions. We are here to help!
Many parents are unsure when children should stay home from school. Resting helps the body fight illness and prevents the spread of contagious infections to others. Here are some guidelines from Olmsted County Public Health to help parents decide if their child should stay home. Children should remain at home if they exhibit the following conditions:
● Severe cold, cough, or sore throat
● Eye infections, especially if discharge is present
● New skin rashes, especially if draining, unless medical opinion states rash is non-communicable
● Body temperature of 100.0°F or more, with or without symptoms
● Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
● Any other sign of acute illness/not feeling well enough to participate in daily activities
● Until the result of the throat culture is known
Children May Return to School After Being Ill When:
● Temperature remains normal for 24 hours without using a fever-reducing medication such as
Tylenol or Motrin
● No vomiting or diarrhea occurs for 24 hours
● Taking prescribed antibiotics for 24 hours
● Your medical provider has advised the safe return to school
● Feeling well enough to participate in usual school activities
If you are unsure, please contact your school nurse with any questions. We are here to help!
Reminder!
Job Posting: Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher B-3
Location: Pine Island Early Learning Center
Job Type: Part-time (0.5) FTE
Position Title: Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher B-3
Start Date: January 1, 2026.
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Pine Island School District is seeking a passionate and student-centered Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher to support young learners with developmental delays and disabilities. This role is ideal for an educator who values play-based learning, early intervention, inclusion, and collaboration and coaching with families and service providers to create a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Why Join Pine Island School District?
Supportive Work Environment – Work with a collaborative team that values professional growth and innovative teaching.
Competitive Compensation & Benefits – Includes health and dental coverage, paid time off, retirement benefits, and professional development opportunities.
Professional Growth – Access to mentorship programs, training, and professional conferences.
Strong Community – Pine Island offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere with easy access to Rochester and the Twin Cities.
Qualifications:
Required:
Valid Minnesota Special Education teaching license (ECSE preferred) or ability to obtain licensure.
Passion for working with young children (Birth through age 3) with disabilities and developmental delays.
Ability to collaborate with families, service providers, and general education teachers to support student development.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary & Health Insurance: Salary range: $47,469–$80,996, with salary, district health, and dental insurance contributions prorated at 0.5 FTE.
Equity Statement:
Pine Island School District is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all students, staff, and families. We value collaboration, respect, and high expectations and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Questions?
For inquiries about this position, please contact:
Luke May; HR specialist
luke.may@pineisland.k12.mn.us
We invite you to apply and make a difference in the lives of our youngest learners!
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Location: Pine Island Early Learning Center
Job Type: Part-time (0.5) FTE
Position Title: Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher B-3
Start Date: January 1, 2026.
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Pine Island School District is seeking a passionate and student-centered Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher to support young learners with developmental delays and disabilities. This role is ideal for an educator who values play-based learning, early intervention, inclusion, and collaboration and coaching with families and service providers to create a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Why Join Pine Island School District?
Supportive Work Environment – Work with a collaborative team that values professional growth and innovative teaching.
Competitive Compensation & Benefits – Includes health and dental coverage, paid time off, retirement benefits, and professional development opportunities.
Professional Growth – Access to mentorship programs, training, and professional conferences.
Strong Community – Pine Island offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere with easy access to Rochester and the Twin Cities.
Qualifications:
Required:
Valid Minnesota Special Education teaching license (ECSE preferred) or ability to obtain licensure.
Passion for working with young children (Birth through age 3) with disabilities and developmental delays.
Ability to collaborate with families, service providers, and general education teachers to support student development.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary & Health Insurance: Salary range: $47,469–$80,996, with salary, district health, and dental insurance contributions prorated at 0.5 FTE.
Equity Statement:
Pine Island School District is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all students, staff, and families. We value collaboration, respect, and high expectations and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Questions?
For inquiries about this position, please contact:
Luke May; HR specialist
luke.may@pineisland.k12.mn.us
We invite you to apply and make a difference in the lives of our youngest learners!
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Now Hiring!
Job Posting: Medical Assistant / Special Education Paraprofessional (PCA)
Location: Pine Island 5-12 Building
Job Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
Position Title: Special Education Medical Assistant Paraprofessional (PCA)
Start Date: January 1, 2026.
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Pine Island School District is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Medical Assistant/Special Education Paraprofessional (PCA) to support students with disabilities requiring specialized health-related and instructional assistance. This position is ideal for a professional who excels in direct student care, values collaboration with educators and nurses, and is committed to supporting student safety, independence, and overall well-being.
Why Join Pine Island School District?
Supportive, Student-Centered Environment – Join a collaborative special education team focused on high-quality services and strong communication across all settings.
Meaningful Work – Support students with diverse medical and educational needs, making a tangible impact every day.
Competitive Compensation & Benefits – Includes health and dental coverage, paid time off, retirement benefits, and professional development opportunities.
Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training in health procedures, special education supports, and crisis response.
Qualifications:
Required:
Current Medical Assistant or PCA certification (or ability to obtain certification upon hire)
High school diploma, Associates degree or higher (preferred)
Previous school experience (preferred)
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary & Benefits: Salary range: $18.59/hour - $28.09/hour, with salary, district health and dental plans per the ESP contract.
Equity Statement:
Pine Island School District is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all students, staff, and families. We value collaboration, respect, and high expectations and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Questions?
For inquiries about this position, please contact:
Luke May; HR specialist
luke.may@pineisland.k12.mn.us
We invite you to apply and make a difference in the lives of our youngest learners!
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
Job Posting: Medical Assistant / Special Education Paraprofessional (PCA)
Location: Pine Island 5-12 Building
Job Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
Position Title: Special Education Medical Assistant Paraprofessional (PCA)
Start Date: January 1, 2026.
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Pine Island School District is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Medical Assistant/Special Education Paraprofessional (PCA) to support students with disabilities requiring specialized health-related and instructional assistance. This position is ideal for a professional who excels in direct student care, values collaboration with educators and nurses, and is committed to supporting student safety, independence, and overall well-being.
Why Join Pine Island School District?
Supportive, Student-Centered Environment – Join a collaborative special education team focused on high-quality services and strong communication across all settings.
Meaningful Work – Support students with diverse medical and educational needs, making a tangible impact every day.
Competitive Compensation & Benefits – Includes health and dental coverage, paid time off, retirement benefits, and professional development opportunities.
Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training in health procedures, special education supports, and crisis response.
Qualifications:
Required:
Current Medical Assistant or PCA certification (or ability to obtain certification upon hire)
High school diploma, Associates degree or higher (preferred)
Previous school experience (preferred)
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary & Benefits: Salary range: $18.59/hour - $28.09/hour, with salary, district health and dental plans per the ESP contract.
Equity Statement:
Pine Island School District is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all students, staff, and families. We value collaboration, respect, and high expectations and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Questions?
For inquiries about this position, please contact:
Luke May; HR specialist
luke.may@pineisland.k12.mn.us
We invite you to apply and make a difference in the lives of our youngest learners!
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
