Dear CHPS Community,

Welcome to the 2021-2022 school year! We come together this fall having been tested, pushed to the limits and with strengthened self-awareness. Last year, we were all asked to “do school” in ways we never thought possible. Undoubtedly, with the global pandemic and social unrest, we all experienced some degree of loss and tragedy, coupled with a steadfast resilience and care for one another. Our scholars demonstrated strength and persistence all the way to the state championships in art, poetry and history competitions despite the challenges faced. We learned school is more than just school; it is a system of connected supports including academic, social-emotional, health, nutrition and countless other areas. Let us build on the many lessons learned and carry forward the sense of patience, flexibility and collaboration into the new school year. In Columbia Heights Public Schools, we are proud to offer worlds of opportunity for each and every learner at all five of our schools, the Family Center and through Community Education. With the completion of extensive renovations of North Park School for Innovation, we have become a leader in environmental sustainability aided by a biodigester, solar panels, composting and more. This year, we are pleased to introduce a PreK-grade 12 STEM pathway, starting at North Park, where our learners unlock their potential through a strong academic foundation, use science and the design-thinking process to develop new solutions, discover their passion through creativity, and see challenges as an opportunity for growth. This growth continues at Columbia Academy in grades 6-8 with design and modeling, and automation-robotics courses. At Columbia Heights High School – where students can take free college courses concurrently – the STEM pathway helps students prepare for opportunities beyond graduation in science, technology, engineering and math careers. All CHPS schools are vibrant learning communities of academic excellence, supportive staff who challenge and affirm our students, and a culture of collaborative partnerships. We take pride in our students, schools, District and community. We look forward to coming together in a safe manner and continuing our commitment to providing engaging, personalized learning to create college and career-ready graduates.

Hylanders Have Heart!

Sincerely,

Zena Stenvik
Superintendent
763-528-4503
StenvikZ@colheights.k12.mn.us

Dawn Hoium
Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
763-528-4504
HoiumD@colheights.k12.mn.us