Norris School District

Norris News: June 2026

Norris News: June 2026 Norris News: June 2026 https://app.smore.com/n/5wu7b

While the library is closed for the summer, our learners have plenty to celebrate. Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve been up to and some of the exciting learning experiences that wrapped up our school year.

Learner-Centered Possibility: Connecting Young People to an Ecosystem of Opportunities through Norris Academy Virtual School.

Learning happens far beyond the four walls of a classroom, and the team at Norris School District is bringing that reality to life for learners across southern Wisconsin! The Norris Academy Virtual School is a no-fee public school where learners are empowered to reach goals and competencies in the dimensions of academics, employability, citizenship, and wellness. With the guidance of a Digital Learning Liaison and Learning Design Specialists, young people can receive an education at their own pace and engage with local and global communities in ways that align with their interests, goals, and current circumstances.

Check it out: https://tinyurl.com/LMKEEdRe

Learn more about Norris School District here: https://www.norrisacademywi.org/
Learn more about Education Reimagined here: https://education-reimagined.org/

Learners enjoyed the beautiful weather above the clouds while zipping through the air on our high ropes course zipline. It is always amazing to watch learners overcome their fears, take risks, and challenge themselves—or love the experience so much that they never miss an opportunity to participate.

Experiences like these continue to build confidence, resilience, and a willingness to step outside of comfort zones while creating memories along the way.

Last night, we celebrated our Class of 2026! Congratulations to our five graduates as they begin the next chapter of their lives. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and wish them continued success in their future endeavors.

Today, staff and learners worked together in teams to create an award-winning sandwich in our 13th Annual Ungathered Protein Sandwich Competition (it’s not actually our 13th, but it sounded catchy 😄).
After sampling all of the sandwiches, staff and learners cast their votes for their favorite creations. It was a close finish, but ultimately Ashley’s team brought home the win with their Sloppy Jose’s—a Mexican-style twist on the classic sloppy joe!
A little friendly competition, creativity, and collaboration made for a fun and delicious day at Norris!

When learning is intentionally designed for young people at the margins, we create environments where all learners have the opportunity to thrive.

At Norris School District, we are committed to helping every learner get to their next best place—no matter the obstacles they may encounter along the way. Through individualized support, meaningful relationships, and innovative opportunities, our learners are achieving goals they once never imagined possible.

This short film highlights the incredible impact of that work and the resilience of the young people we are honored to serve. We are proud to share their stories and celebrate the intentional support, dedication, and care that make Norris such a special place.

Watch it HERE: https://tinyurl.com/EdReNSD
Learn more about Norris School District here: https://www.norrisacademywi.org/
Learn more about Education Reimagined here: https://education-reimagined.org/

It’s one of our learners’ (and staff’s) favorite times of the year—baby chick season! 🐣
There’s something special about holding, caring for, and watching these little ones grow. It’s hard not to smile when there are baby chicks around, and they always bring so much joy to our learning space.

Join us on Thursday, May 21 at 12:00 PM for our Trimester 3 Learner Showcase!

Our learners have been working hard and are excited to share their evidence of learning with you. We look forward to celebrating their growth and achievements together.

An impromptu jump-reach contest really showed off our learners’ athleticism, stretch, and competitive side! It was so much fun watching them challenge themselves and compete just for fun.