The OtterBots had a great showing at the Great Northern Regional in Grand Forks over the weekend. Teams from all over the region and as far away as Wisconsin and Missoula, MT came to test their robots. The team learned so much and worked with other alliance members to demonstrate their solution to this years game “Charged Up”.
“It was so exciting to be part of this event this year”, according to Bill Swanson, head mentor for the OtterBots. “We have a very young team, many of who had never been to a regional event. Even at that the OtterBots were selected to play in the afternoon tournament because of the fast and reliable way their robot, affectionally named Elvis, could quickly and efficiently gather game pieces and score.”
While it is unlikely that the OtterBots will qualify for the state tournament this year, there is no question the team had a great experience, advanced the knowledge base of the team, and will come out stronger than ever in 2024.
“There are some off-season events this summer that I hope we can attend and continue to have some fun”, explained Swanson.
The OtterBots, sponsored by US Bank, Otter Tail Power, and Central Lakes Robotics are made up of the following students; Landen Krause, Lance Johnson, Braden Bucher, Olivia Swanson, Logan Bredenberg, Kendal Hanson, Alexandra Grotberg, Tim Ekelund, Eric Swanson and Eleisha Krause. The team mentors are Bob Drake, Darrin Hanson, Aaron Demuth, Jennifer Krause and Bill Swanson.
Fergus Falls first and second graders started our 5th annual One School, One Book read-along on Monday, March 5th. Every first and second grade student received their own copy of Big Foot and Little Foot – The Monster Detector. All students gathered together as Mr. Evavold read the first two chapters aloud as students followed along in their books.
During the month of March students will be encouraged to read the book at home and chapters will be reread at school. There is daily trivia as well. This was all made possible through funds provided by our generous Otter PTO.
Page 5 of 5
On behalf of the Fergus Falls Public School District, I extend a warm welcome. We are honored that you have entrusted us with the care and education of your child.
The Fergus Falls Public School District is a special place. Our mission statement outlines our commitment to each and every child: “The mission of the Fergus Falls Public Schools is to prepare productive and engaged members of society by creating an environment where all students reach their full potential.”
What will your child’s experience be as a member of our school community? Children will be surrounded by adults who care about them. We will provide the necessary support to help ensure that each child is successful. Children will be challenged. That’s how new skills are developed and how learning, confidence and leadership is fostered.
In providing a robust 21st century learning environment - we emphasize the five “Cs” - Core Knowledge, Creative Problem Solving, Communication, Contributing Citizen and Character. These core competencies ensure that our students will be well-positioned for success wherever their dreams take them.
We pride ourselves on providing a rigorous academic curriculum with a diverse selection of electives. We support our students with a 1:1 technology initiative to augment instruction, we have strong vocational programs and excellent participation among our students in the arts. A large percentage of our students are involved in co-curricular activities and our programs are highly respected and competitive. In summary, we offer the family atmosphere of a small rural school combined with the opportunities typically only found in much larger districts.
Through the process of discovering and developing their talents, interests and skills, our students are going to make great memories, grow in confidence, become leaders in our school and community and form lifelong friendships. Once an Otter, always an Otter!
Warmest Regards,
Superintendent