Official Guide to Delano 2019 | Page 28

Submitted photo Carl Janzen and Mike Brandenburg raise the flag during the grand opening of the Delano Intermediate School. educational experiences that prepare learners for the world beyond school doors. There is an emphasis on advancing education through technology with the use of SMARTboards, Sound Field Systems, iPads, Kindles, Chromebooks, Nooks and other devices. In addition, DES offers gifted and talented programs for high- potential students, along with Title I and Special Education programming. The following list includes awards and recognitions earned by DES: • In 2018 DES earned honors in math progress, as determined by MCA testing, under the state’s new North Star accountability system. The distinction means that the school performed in the top 5 percent in the state. • DES was among just four schools in Minnesota to receive a Let’s Move! Active Schools National Award for 2017. • In 2013 DES was designated a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School for educational excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. DES was one of only six Minnesota schools to receive this award, and one of 286 in the nation. • In 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2016 DES was designated a Reward School by the Minnesota Department of Education for performing in the top 15 percent of elementary schools in Minnesota. • DES received a Minnesota Excellence Foundation School Spotlight Award in 2009 for demonstrating academic excellence and significant gains in achievement. • In 2008 DES received a Minnesota School of Excellence Award from the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association. Parents play an important role in the success of the school. The staff considers itself fortunate to have dedicated parent volunteers who spend countless hours assisting with student learning, and encourages parents to be active participants in the educational process. For more information on Delano Elementary School, go to www.delano.k12.mn.us and click on “Elementary.” Delano Intermediate School (DIS) Delano Intermediate School opened in the fall of 2018 and serves grades 4-6. Though the intermediate school is establishing its own culture in terms of grading, a unique schedule that includes Zero Hour opportunities and more, it builds on the solid foundation set by Delano Middle School, which served grades 5-8 in past years. Delano Intermediate School’s mission is to work in partnership with the community and families to create a climate of success for all learners, with a focus on nurturing students’ social and emotional development along with continuous academic growth. Programs are offered in the four core disciplines of science, math, social studies and language arts. In addition, students are offered exploratory opportunities in physical education, health, art, music, and engineering. Its programs provide a well-rounded educational experience. The DIS administration and staff believe in educating individuals to be lifelong learners who possess the skills, knowledge, creativity, sense of self-worth, and citizenship necessary to function and flourish in a global society. Students are recognized and rewarded for their academic, co-curricular and extra-curricular achievements and attendance. The school makes a point to acknowledge as many students as possible for their successes and improvements. For more information about Delano Intermediate School, go to www.delano.k12.mn.us and click on “Intermediate.” Delano High School (DHS) Delano High School transitioned to a 7-12 secondary building in the fall of 2018. DHS is a caring community committed to achieving academic excellence, responsible leadership, and consistent integrity. Students are encouraged to follow “The Delano Way: Show Up, Show Up on Time, Work Hard, and Failure is Not an Option.” The DHS administration and staff believe that success is not an accident; it takes hard | 28 | Official Guide to DELANO 2019