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Get this week's news and events from across Fargo Public Schools in the current issue of SCHOOLTALK. This week's issue highlights include newsmakers, feature columns, and more.

Now through Thursday, December 19, the Fargo Police Department is supporting the students of FPS with the Police Navidad Winter Clothing Drive. Your contributions of new or gently used winter gear will make a difference in keeping kids warm during the chilly months. 

Fargo Public Schools is proud to join the Inclusive Schools Network in celebrating Inclusive Schools Week, this week December 2-6, 2024. The theme, Every Voice Matters, underscores our steadfast commitment to creating a school community where every individual — students, educators, and community members — is valued and heard.

AD-Ventures is a district publication to help families find activities for their children throughout our community. It is published on the first of each month September-May. 

Trollwood Winter Academy returns this January with Musical Theatre Audition Prep classes for high school and middle school students in Grades 5-12. Registration is now open for these classes that will ensure students are prepared for their next audition. Trollwood Winter Academy classes are from 3-6:15 p.m. on Sundays from January 12 to February 16.

Find out more about reimagining four core school sites: Ben Franklin, Hawthorne, Roosevelt and Madison. To ensure plans reflect the values of those who live in the community, we want to hear from you!

Fargo Public Schools makes every effort to keep schools open each day. Our first choice will always be to remain open, but at times the weather conditions within the city merit a school closing. 

Let's recognize and celebrate the dedicated staff of Fargo Public Schools!  Starting at 9 a.m. Monday, November 25, anyone in our community can nominate a deserving FPS staff member for one of our annual staff recognition awards. Whether it's an inspiring teacher, an exceptional administrator, or a support staff member who tirelessly contributes to the smooth running of our schools, this is the opportunity to shine a spotlight on their hard work and dedication. Nominations will be accepted online until 4 p.m. December 13. 

This year, the Fargo Board of Education's Governmental Affairs Committee is focused on preparing for the 69th North Dakota Legislative Session. Once the session begins, the committee will closely monitor bills related to K-12 education, regularly updating legislators on how proposed legislation could impact our district, students, and community. Read more about the work the Governmental Affairs Committee is doing to advocate for the District.

As FPS continues to enhance student safety and security during school bus operations, we would like to share important reminders and updates about our bus scanning procedures. The safety and security of our students during transportation remain our utmost priority. Read more about the updates to the bus scanning procedures and actions required of staff to ensure the proper implementation of these procedures

In late fall of 2023, the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction released the ND-ELA Alternate Assessment Standards. This document aligns the North Dakota State Content Standards and the Dynamic Learning Maps Essential Elements to assist districts in developing curriculum, scope, and sequence for students with the most significant disabilities.

When giftedness resides alongside autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning difference in the same person, the person is said to be “twice exceptional” or “2e” for short. The presence of at least two neurodiverse conditions in one brain can present unique challenges for twice exceptional people. It can also present great potential and lead to exceptional outcomes.

This school year, the Fargo Board of Education's Planning Committee will continue to be heavily involved in the implementation of the newly adopted long-range facilities plan, which was approved by the Board on June 11, 2024. Creating a plan is just the beginning. Now that plan must be put into practice, which will take a lot of effort and will again require gathering input from the community throughout the year.

When students take time to reflect on what they’re learning, they perform better in school. Research shows that self-assessment and reflection are two of the most effective strategies for improving learning. When students think about what they’ve learned and identify areas they need to work on, they can set clearer, more meaningful goals.
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Starting in the month of October, kindergarteners and children in our early childhood programs will begin bringing home red Raising a Reader book bags each week. The red bags contain three books that families can share together and return to school the next week. The goal is to support families in establishing, enhancing, and maintaining home reading routines.

The Fargo Public Schools 2023-24 Annual Report is a summary of the District’s efforts to carry out its mission of “educating and empowering all students to succeed”. Read the report for an in-depth examination of the District’s students, staff, schools, departments, programs and a celebration of their achievements.

This fall, FPS is excited to introduce Proficiency Days at our comprehensive high schools. These days are designed to help students focus on their academic growth and reach their full potential. Proficiency Days provide targeted opportunities for students to improve their skills and progress toward their goals. Watch the video.

This year, FPS started using the term "Multilingual Learners" instead of "English Learners." This change is more than just a new name — it shows the District's commitment to understanding and valuing students’ cultural backgrounds. Read more about the transition from English Learners to Multilingual Learners in this Feature Column by Multilingual Learners Facilitator Jenna Polley.

The Fargo Board of Education approved the final mill levy certification and district budgets for the 2025 school year on September 24. Most individuals think of the General Fund when it comes to school district budgeting, however, Fargo Public Schools budgets for and operates multiple funds, some of which are reserved by law under North Dakota Century Code and can only be used for specified purposes.

At the core of the Standards-Based Instruction/Evidence-Based Reporting model are Enduring Skills and Essential Learning Outcomes. These guide students in becoming more than just passive learners—they develop the ability to apply knowledge, think critically, and innovate. As learners, users, and producers of new knowledge, students are empowered to take ownership of their educational journey.
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FPS transitioned to a new mass communication system, BrightArrow. Unfortunately, since the launch, FPS has experienced some technical challenges that have been particularly frustrating during critical moments, including recent safety and security incidents. ream ore about the new system and how to ensure you receive important information from FPS.

As a parent, it can sometimes feel like you're trying to decode a secret language when it comes to understanding your child's school grades. FPS is committed to providing clear, accurate information on your child’s progress, highlighting both where they are excelling and where they may need more support. Our grading system is designed to focus on the skills your child can use in the real world, emphasizing their academic achievements independent of other factors.

Households may qualify for free or reduced-cost meals. FPS encourages all families to complete the Student Frees Assistance and Benefits application available online. Qualifying includes free waivers for some student activities, submitting college applications, and taking national standardized tests in addition to meal payment benefits.

The FPS Adult Learning Center is a regional hub for Adult Education and Family Literacy based out of the Agassiz with satellite sites supporting the southeastern portion of North Dakota.

The Evidence-Based Reporting gradebook is designed to give a more transparent, skills-based view of a student’s progress. Understanding the gradebook is essential for staying connected with your student’s learning and helping them succeed.