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May 18, 2020
Dear DA STEM 9th and 10th graders and their parents/guardians,
Congratulations on completing spring semester at Normandale in the Dimensions Academy STEM program.  You excelled in your college coursework - during a pandemic and when all instruction was moved online!  Roger and I were very impressed with how hard you worked under these new learning conditions. Additionally, we were thrilled to see how well the Normandale professors adjusted their teaching to online.  We were happy with the level of rigor they were able to maintain.  
Grades:  
I am pleased to announce that everyone in both cohorts earned As and Bs in their college classes this semester.  Normandale is offering their students the opportunity to take their classes pass/fail but my recommendation for you is to take your grade.  There are 2 benefits to taking your grade:  1.  It is doubtful that 4 years from now colleges will give you credit for a Pass, 2.  Your grade will be weighted in your BPS GPA.  If you want to take a P instead, please notify me since I am the one to submit your grades.  
Future courses:
Bloomington Public Schools is still figuring out our plan for the fall but it is important to note that Normandale has already decided that they will be online next fall in order to ensure public safety and public health.  The University of MN has not disclosed their plan for the fall.  All of you took classes at BPS and at NCC this spring.  Take a moment to reflect on what you liked and disliked about this experience.  How did it push you as a learner?  What challenges did it give you? Now think about next fall.  If you are a rising 10th grader and you do not want to take your STEM classes at NCC online please contact me as soon as possible so we can find you a spot at KHS/JHS.  If you are a rising 11th grader and applied to go PSEO next year, think about your experience at Normandale this spring when deciding how to register.  
Returning books:
Both Kennedy and Jefferson are having times where students can drop off their library books and textbooks this spring.  I have asked that there be a DA section at both schools so that students can turn in their NCC textbooks there and then I can return them to NCC for you.  When you return your DA textbooks please label them DA, with your name and with my name so that they don’t end up lost in the sea of returned books.  
Thank you for not giving up on learning or on yourselves this spring!  I look forward to continuing to work with you.  Enjoy your summer!
Sincerely,

Meredith

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