Cambridge-Isanti School News: A celebration of excellence of students and staff

Our volunteers at Cambridge-Isanti Schools have outdone themselves this year. From guest readers to grand-friends in primary schools, volunteer co-curricular coaches to field trip chaperones, guest speakers to career mentors, classroom volunteers, PTO leaders, and business owners — we have an entire community that rallies in support of our children and our schools. And last weekend’s Bluejacket Education Foundation’s sold-out Future Fest celebrated the future of our children. To all involved, THANK YOU!

As we close out April, it’s exciting to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our students and staff.

In academics and extracurriculars, our students are soaring to impressive heights. Our CIHS Varsity Speech Team qualified ten students for the state competition and celebrated two State medalists who exemplified the power of words and persuasion. Meanwhile, our Economics Team demonstrated their analytical prowess and took second place at their state competition. These achievements are not merely accolades; they are a testament to the resilience and dedication of our students, who strive to excel in whatever goals they set.

April also brought to life a whimsical journey into the world of literature with the CIHS Theatre Department’s production of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” From artistically crafted costumes to captivating performances, our students and staff worked tirelessly to transform the stage into a fantasy world, enchanting audiences and proving that creativity knows no bounds.

In our career-technical education area, CIHS Welding student Alex Robinson earned a gold medal at the SkillsUSA State Welding Competition and an invitation to compete at the Nationals in Atlanta this summer. This achievement shines a spotlight on our students’ vocational talents and reminds us that excellence comes in many forms.

Last Sunday, during our annual “Inspired to the Top” event, we celebrated the top 10% of this year’s graduating class. This event is particularly close to my heart as it underscores the collective journey of our students and staff. Each honored student invited a staff member who has positively impacted their lives, highlighting the significant role our educators play in nurturing the potential within each student. As these young adults prepare to embark on new paths, they leave a legacy of hard work, resilience, and academic excellence.

As we look forward to May, we focus on the vital importance of our educators and staff during National Teacher Appreciation Week and School Lunch Hero Week. In times when educators face many challenges, Teacher Appreciation Week provides an opportunity to come together as a community to recognize those who dedicate their lives to teaching and nurturing our children. Reaching out to thank a teacher or staff member may seem small, but it is a profound affirmation of the value they bring to our community and our children’s futures.

Earlier this month, at the C-I Schools Retired Educator Luncheon, I talked with many who served this community with distinction. Their dedication and love created a legacy that transcends time and continues inspiring current and future educators.

Our community’s success and our student’s achievements are not mere coincidences; they are the result of a strong partnership between our schools and our community. If we are to continue to attract and retain outstanding educators, we must continue to understand and value that their impact extends beyond their classrooms; they transform lives and inspire hope for a better future.

May 6-10, let us all take a moment to appreciate and thank our educators and staff. Let’s celebrate their dedication, acknowledge their challenges, and affirm their importance to our children’s futures. In doing so, we honor their contributions and reinforce the foundation of our community and the schools that hold us together.

In Cambridge-Isanti Schools, our mission is to work in partnership with our community to educate, empower and inspire every student, every day. Let us remember that in nurturing our children’s dreams and aspirations, we are shaping our community’s future.

DR. NATE RUDOLPH is superintendent of Cambridge-Isanti Schools. He can be reached at  763-689-6202 or nrudolph@c-ischools.org.