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Meet our Staff Crew! We're excited to welcome our teaching, paraprofessional, and admin crew to Heartland Lakes Community School! MEET OUR ADMIN CREW At Heartland Lakes Community School we are innovative, adaptable, and dedicated to creating a dynamic, and new learning experience for children. School Director Laura Seter 218.203.5971 lauraseter@heartlandlakescs.org Assistant Director & Art Teacher Kristin Hoff 218.203.9327 kristinhoff@heartlandlakescs.org Operations Manager Sheila Caswell 218.203.8213 sheilacaswell@heartlandlakescs.org MEET OUR TEACHING CREW Lead Teacher & 4th/5th Grade Elise Erickson eliseerickson@heartlandlakescs.org Curious and passionate, Elise will bring heart, dedication and her variety of experiences in education. She is eager to begin her 16th year teaching and learning alongside the 4/5 students and staff in bringing to life HLCS's mission of, "Being Brave, Wise, and Curious." Outside of school you'll find her with family, enjoying nature, going on adventures big and small, reading and dabbling in being creative. She can't wait for our Crew to grow and learn together! 6th/7th Grade Teacher & Special Education Teacher Rebecca Frosig rebecca@heartlandlakescs.org Rebecca joins the HLCS Teaching Crew with over a decade of teaching experience in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. She is passionate about supporting all learners at all levels. When she isn't at school she is doing something outside and probably chasing her twin boys around their farm. 2nd/3rd Grade Teacher Laura Schmeling lauraschmeling@heartlandlakescs.org Laura brings a rich background in art and education to the 2/3 Crew. Originally from New Haven, Indiana, she earned her BFA in Drawing from Ball State University and spent many years working as an exhibiting artist at festivals and shows throughout the Midwest. Her experience includes teaching arts and crafts through park programs, substitute teaching from pre-K through high school, and leading adult painting classes. Since moving to Bemidji in 2009, Laura has remained active in the community and served as the building substitute at Horace May Elementary. She brings a patient, creative, and inclusive approach to the classroom and enjoys sharing her love of nature and the arts with her students. Outside of school, her favorite role is being mom to her son. K/1st Grade Teacher Emily Kirchenwitz emilykirchenwitz@heartlandlakescs.org Emily comes to us with a variety of experiences working with both kids and adults at summer camps, after school programming, and other care settings, as well as with us as our 1st grade teacher last year. Emily is a caring and enthusiastic team player, with contagious energy. Emily’s hope is to foster an environment that values authenticity, where students feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their role in their learning community. Interim Special Education Teacher Patrick Kaufenberg patrick@heartlandlakescs.org Patrick is a proud graduate of Park Rapids and University of Wisconsin, Superior. Originally a Fine Arts major, he explored creative writing, reflecting a lifelong passion for art. Beyond the visual arts, Patrick is a seasoned musician with experience in several bands, mastering drums, guitar, and bass as self-taught skills. Patrick finds joy in nature and values family, especially his role as a proud dad. With a deep commitment to fostering growth, he is dedicated to creating a positive learning environment where scholars feel encouraged to share their thoughts constructively. School Social Worker & SEL Teacher Joanna Wallenberg, MSW, LICSW joanna@heartlandlakescs.org Joanna is excited to serve the HLCS Community as the dedicated School Social Worker and SEL Teacher! She has over 15 years of experience working with kids and families in schools and mental health settings. Joanna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, mom, business owner, former School Board Member, and life-long learner. She would always rather be outside - no matter what the weather is! Music Teacher Angela Hulett ahulett@heartlandlakescs.org Bio coming soon. Special Education Director Tracy Brown tracy.brown@nova-education.org Bio coming soon. Special Education Director Kori Ryan kryan@indigoed.org Bio coming soon. Occuptional Therapist Jace Allard jaceot@heartlandlakescs.org Jace is a licensed occupational therapist who earned his Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD) from the University of North Dakota. He has several years of experience working with children across a variety of settings and roles, supporting individuals with diverse needs. Currently in his second year as a school-based occupational therapist, Jace is passionate about helping students develop functional skills that promote success both in the classroom and in everyday life. He emphasizes engaging, fun, and interactive activities to foster growth, independence, and confidence in each student he serves. Virtual Special Education Teacher Emily Blake emilyb@heartlandlakescs.org Emily has years of experience teaching and support students with Individual Education Plans. Emily provides targeted services for scholars in K-7th grade in the areas of social skills, reading, math, and ..... Virtual Math Teacher Stephanie Hoffman shoffman@heartlandlakescs.org Stephanie joins our team with over a decade of teaching experience. She has taught students from Kindergarten through 8th grade, with a strong foundation in 2nd and 3rd grade classrooms. After earning her Master’s degree in Mathematics Education, she went on to teach middle school math, where she inspired students to build confidence and curiosity in the subject. Beyond the classroom, Stephanie enjoys baking sourdough, caring for her chickens, and gardening. At the heart of her work is a deep passion for making learning meaningful and engaging. She is continually exploring innovative ways to bring concepts to life for her students. Stephanie is excited to join Heartland Lakes Community School and looks forward to collaborating with colleagues and students to discover and celebrate the beauty of mathematics together. MEET OUR PARA CREW Paraprofessional Talya Smith talyasmith@heartlandlakescs.org Passionate and brave, Talya is dedicated to the learning and growth of any crew she helps. She is also the handy one of the crew! She is eager to begin her 2nd year alongside the HLCS's crew! Paraprofessional Taylor Peterson taylor@heartlandlakescs.org Taylor Peterson is working on finishing her Psychology degree at Bemidji State. She lives here in Park Rapids and spends most of her time golfing, on the lake with friends, and spending time with family. She's so excited to be working at HLCS, creating relationships with all our scholars! Paraprofessional Tina Burkman tina@heartlandlakescs.org Tina is a passionate and dedicated member of our Staff crew. She has years of experience working in and around schools and promoting the Park Rapids Area. Special Education Paraprofessional Ellie Kirchner elliekirchner@heartlandlakescs.org Ellie is a bright light in any room she walks into. She is a lifelong learner, dedicated mom, and all-around fabulous person. She has years of experience supporting kids and families and she brings her skills to the HLCS Staff Crew. Special Education Paraprofessional: Virtual Support Allison Klingenberg allison@heartlandlakescs.org Allison is a retired monographer who has experience as both a substitute teacher and a paraprofessional. She and her husband have been married for over 35 years and have two grown daughters. They are lucky enough to also have two granddaughters and two grand pups. In her spare time, Allison can be found doing crafty things with her granddaughters and fishing with her husband (summer, only!) She loves a good book and hanging with her husband. Her faith keeps her grounded. Special Education Paraprofessional & STEAM Specialist Robert Hanna robert@heartlandlakescs.org Robert joins us with a curious spirit and a bright personality. He loves all things technology and can most definitely fix any computer problems you are having. He connects easily with both kids and adults - making him a wonderful addition to our HLCS Staff Crew. Special Education Paraprofessional Alyssa Little alyssa@heartlandlakescs.org Alyssa is a steady support for both staff and students at HLCS. She brings years of experience in serving people through the medical field and Emergency Medicine to her role as paraprofessional on our Staff Crew. She is also a devoted mom and very involved community member. Special Education Paraprofessional Ashlee Junes ashleejunes@heartlandlakescs.org Ashlee brings a warmth and kindness to her role as Paraprofessional at HLCS. She has years of experience in home-based daycare with birth-5 year olds and is a wonderful addition to our HLCS Staff Crew. Special Education Paraprofessional Mattice Simmons msimmons@heartlandlakescs.org Originally from Mahtomedi, Minnesota, Mattice brings a passion for athletics, teamwork, and community. He has been actively involved in many sports, not only as a participant but also as someone who contributes positively to those around him. Known for his kind and empathetic nature, he strives to support and uplift others. Above all, he is a proud family man who believes that with determination and the right mindset, no task is too challenging. MEET OUR SUPPORTING CREW We are wise with our resources and depend on our experts for additional focused support. Director of Special Education Kori Ryan INDIGO Education kryan@indigoed.org Occupational Therapist Jace Allard Choice Therapy jallard@choicetherapy1.com School Nurse Kristen Gerber Navigate Care kristen@navigatecare.com School Psychologist Tracy Brown Nova Education tracy.brown@nova-education.org Custodial Support Marlin Good HLCS info@heartlandlakescs.org Speech Language Pathologist Kristi Benedict Choice Therapy kbenedict@choicetherapy1.com NEW STAFF OPPORTUNITIES Do you Like Being Outside? Are you Adaptable? Are you Curious? Do you believe in the innate ability of every student to succeed? CURRENT JOB OPENINGS

Introducing Heartland Lakes Community School, a Park Rapids, MN charter school. - GIVE TO THE MAX - LEARN & GROW FUNDRAISER DONATE HEARTLAND LAKES COMMUNITY SCHOOL A free, public charter school in the Heartland Lakes area of Park Rapids, Minnesota. Now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year for K-7th. A Few Quick Facts: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & WAYS TO STAY IN TOUCH WE'RE OPEN FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR! FAQ'S SERVING: K-7 SCHOLARS POTENTIAL STUDENTS NATURE BASED SPACE: HEARTLAND LAKES STAY UP TO DATE We currently have space for the 2025-2026 School Year in the following grades: 4th Grade 5th Grade Apply Here! Our Mission Empowering Young Scholars Heartland Lakes Community School exists to empower scholars to bravely live their truth, to become wise stewards of the land and resources and to ignite lasting curiosity that leads to positive change in their school, their communities, their world and themselves. Our Purpose An Expeditionary Learning School An emphasis on outdoor learning by using the environment with which we live and learn by utilizing both structured and unstructured outdoor learning spaces; we are an expeditionary learning school where students work together on a specific project throughout the school year to achieve a common goal; HLCS is a community school with smaller class sizes which will lead to more individualized attention and care. Our Guiding Philosophy The Whole Child To develop and meet the needs of the whole child. Providing hands on learning experiences fostering curiosity and allowing students to discover their abilities, values, passions. All members in the school community will strive to take responsibility in their learning, collaborate and build mutual trust so all individuals feel safe and confident to take responsible risks. Our school intentionally fosters a space of inclusivity for all members. THE FUTURE OF HEARTLAND LAKES COMMUNITY SCHOOL A COMMUNITY SCHOOL Using the Community Schools Model, HLCS is a learning community that prioritizes community partnerships, relationships with students and families, environmental stewardship, and service to the community around us. We use the latest research in trauma-focused practices, restorative discipline, and Collaborative Leadership to create an enriching learning community. LEARN MORE - GIVE TO THE MAX - LEARN & GROW FUNDRAISER DONATE

Meet the founding members of Heartland Lakes Community School. Our Board Our School Board is made up of visionary teachers, passionate professionals, a driven social worker, parents, and small business owners who are invested in the growth and education of our young scholars in the Heartland Lakes area of Park Rapids, MN community. Sarah Skjonsby Small Business Owner & Licensed Birth-5 Provider HLCS Board Chair Sarah brings a wide range of skills and experiences to the HCLS board. She has owned multiple businesses, is an expert in birth - 5 development, and is always engaged with the community. Sarah and her family live in Park Rapids, MN. Get in Touch Jamie Simon-Linkowitz Licensed Teacher Board Member Jamie has decades of experience teaching in a variety of different communities and languages. She is a fluent Spanish-speaker and a life-long learner. Jamie and her family live in Park Rapids, MN. Get in Touch Rebekah Sundsrud Musician, Artist Board Member Rebekah is a musician, artist and avid reader. She brings a wide perspective and impressive attention to details to the HLCS board. Rebekah and her family live in Park Rapids, MN. Get in Touch Nikki Gack Hubbard County Deputy Auditor/Treasurer HLCS Board Secretary Energetic and Fun, Nikki brings her dedication, attention to detail, and experience serving kids with special needs to the HLCS board. Nikki and her family live in Park Rapids, MN. Get in Touch Elise Erickson Licensed Teacher Board Member Thoughtful and wise, Elise brings her passion for education, student-centered approach, and great questions to the HLCS board. Elise and her family live in Park Rapids, MN. Get in Touch Gretchen Pederson Business Analyst Board Member Smart and collaborative, Gretchen brings her incredible knowledge and experience in the world of finance - along with her love of Park Rapids - to the HLCS board. Gretchen and her family live in Park Rapids, MN. Get in Touch Current School Board Roster Current Board Committees School Board Election *Coming Soon* Heartland Lakes Community School is preparing to conduct its first ever election of Board members on April 21, 2026 and is now soliciting nominations for candidates. The following seats are up for election: Community Board Member (3 Year Term) Teacher Member (2 Year Term) Caregiver Member (2 Year Term) For more information - or for a link to the nomination form - see below: Board Election FAQ's Nomination Form Board Meetings Schedules, Agendas & Meetings HEARTLAND LAKES COMMUNITY SCHOOL Board of Directors will meet the 4th Monday of every month (unless otherwise posted) Meeting Time: 6:00 PM Meeting Location: Heartland Lakes Community School (1005 Park Ave N, Park Rapids, MN) Zoom Link Upcoming Board of Director Meetings: Monday, February 23, 2026 Monday, March 23, 2026 Monday, April 27, 2026 Finance Committee will meet the 4th Monday of every month (unless otherwise posted): Monday, February 23, 2026 Monday, March 23, 2026 Monday, April 27, 2026 Meeting Time: 5:00 pm Meeting Location: Heartland Lakes Community School (1005 Park Ave N, Park Rapids, MN) BOARD AGENDAS & MINUTES

Board Meeting Agendas and Minutes: Below you will find the HLCS Board Meeting Agendas and Minutes. Please direct any questions to: info@heartlandlakescs.org Board Meetings Schedules, Agendas & Meetings HEARTLAND LAKES COMMUNITY SCHOOL Board of Directors will meet the 2nd & 4th Mondays of every month (unless otherwise posted) Meeting Time: 6:00 PM Meeting Location: Heartland Lakes Community School (1005 Park Ave N, Park Rapids, MN) Google Meet Link Upcoming Board of Director Meetings: Monday, February 23, 2026 Monday, March 23, 2026 Monday, April 27, 2026 Finance Committee will meet the 4th Monday of every month (unless otherwise posted): Monday, February 23, 2026 Monday, March 23, 2026 Monday, April 27, 2026 Meeting Time: 5:00 pm Meeting Location: Heartland Lakes Community School (1005 Park Ave N, Park Rapids, MN)

Public Education - but Different We are a public school. But we are wildly different than what you are used to. Our goal is to use innovative practices in curriculum, grading, conferences, assessments, social emotional learning, and discipline to create a school community that reflects our values: Brave, Wise and Curious . 1 EL Education HLCS is committed to using EL Education as our ELA Curriculum and to create a distinct Crew Culture. Where each member knows they are valued and important - but they also know they are expected to contribute. EL Expedition focuses three dimensions of student achievement: (1) High Quality Student Work, (2) Mastery of Knowledge and Skills, and (3) Character. Teachers get to use a dynamic curriculum to lead their classroom on Expeditions each trimester that integrate all subjects and culminate in a Celebration of Learning Project (not a test!) 2 Restorative Practices We know that every member of our learning community does their best work when they feel safe and connected. And one evidence-based way to do this is by using Restorative Practices. This means that we use practices like restorative chats, we learn how to apologize, and we practice advocating for our needs. This includes both the kids and the adults in our learning community. 3 Outdoor Education We believe that the outdoors is one of our biggest assets in creating a community of learners who are engaged in learning! That means all of our teachers are committed to using the outdoors as an extension of their classroom - not just for play and free time - but for high quality instruction connected to the natural world. 4 We're Building Something Together HLCS is in our second year of operation - which means we are a really new school! The exciting part of being a new school is that we get to build this learning community together. By joining this Crew, you are committing to building with us!

CAREERS 2026-2027 School Year Openings: Classroom Crew Teacher Apply Now! The Classroom Teacher is responsible for supporting the diverse learning needs of HLCS students. They will create a culture of learning and curiosity in their classroom and work to build a successful school experience for every child in their classroom. From academics to social skills, the classroom teacher is responsible for developing each child in a holistic way. Read the full Job Description for Classroom Teacher . If you have questions or are interested in applying please email: careers@heartlandlakescs.org Special Education Teacher Apply Now! The Special Education Teacher will support the diverse learning needs of HLCS students by providing individualized instruction and managing IEP services. This role includes working closely with students in both special education and general education settings, ensuring every learner is supported academically, socially, and emotionally. Read the Special Education Teacher Job Description and instructions for applying. If you have questions or are interested please email: careers@heartlandlakescs.org Specialist Teacher Part-Time Position The Specialist Teacher has the exciting job of inspiring and developing HLCS students through specialized learning experiences. Whether teaching music, robotics, yoga, physical activity, or a specific maker's craft, the Specialist Teacher fosters curiosity and creativity in every lesson. Responsible for the academic, social, and emotional growth of every child in their classroom, they create a safe and supportive environment where students thrive. As a valued team member, they also contribute positively to the professional culture and broader school community. Read the full Specialist Teacher Job Description here. If you have questions or are interested please email: careers@heartlandlakescs.org 2025-2026 School Year Openings: Special Education Paraprofessional Apply Now! The Special Education Paraprofessional assists Special Education and General Education teachers in the delivery of educational and behavioral interventions for Special Education students; also assists the Special Education student in the general education classrooms with the goal of supporting school wide educational goals. Read the full Paraprofessional Job Description here. If you have questions or are interested in applying please email us at: info@heartlandlakescs.org Short-Call Substitute Teachers, & Substitute Paras Part-Time Position We are hard at work building a strong crew of subs who can support our Staff Crew when they need to be gone from school. We are currently adding both Teacher and Para Subs to our list. If you'd like to find out more information about becoming a licensed sub, check out Minnesota's requirements here. If you are interested in subbing at HLCS - please email us at careers@heartlandlakescs.org .

2025-2026 CALENDAR 2025-2026 CALENDAR You can download a PDF of the calendar here . SCHOOL ✄ SUPPLIES LIST SUPPLIES LIST SCHOOL ✄ WISH LIST K/1'S WISH LIST 2/3's WISH LIST 4/5's WISH LIST 6/7'S WISH LIST 2025-2026 Testing Calendar FIND HERE

2026-2027 Student Application Interested in Enrolling your K-8th Grade Scholar for the 2026-2027 School Year? Enrollment is OPEN NOW! 2026-2027 Enrollment Form 2025-2026 Enrollment Is your family ready to try a different kind of public school? We have some immediate openings for the 2025-2026 school year in: 1st Grade 4th Grade 5th Grade To apply - complete the Student Application. If you have any questions, you can email: info@heartlandlakescs.org *Students who apply to grades without an opening will be added to our waitlist* 2025-2026 STUDENT APPLICATION The Enrollment Lottery The Enrollment Lottery for the 2025-2026 School Year was held on Saturday, February 1, 2025. At the lottery we established the Waitlist Order for the 2025-2026 School Year. If you have a scholar on this list, you can use the Student Application number you received via email to determine where they landed on the waitlist. Some Key Points 1 Already Enrolled? If your child is already enrolled at HLCS for he 2025-2026 school year you do NOT need to fill out another student application or go through the lottery process. Your scholar has a spot at HLCS for as long as you want it! 2 How Many Open Spots? We won't know exactly how many open seats we have for 2026-2027 until later in the year, as our current scholars have the first opportunity to re-reserve their spot for next year. We do know we will have a brand new Kindergarten Crew! 3 Who Gets Preference? In accordance with Minnesota State Law, there are two groups who get preference in the enrollment lottery: (1) Siblings of Enrolled Students (2) Children of HLCS Staff If either of these apply to your child, you will have an opportunity to indicate that on the student a pplication. The Lottery Process: The lottery process is dictated by Minnesota State Law and the HLCS Student Enrollment Policy. Below is a description of the step-by-step process that you can expect if you have one or more students in this year's lottery. Step One: Each student who was entered into the lottery between December and January will be assigned a number. This number will be emailed to the parent or caregiver who completed the student application. These numbers will be what is drawn in the lottery! Step Two: At the lottery, an HLCS representative will draw the assigned numbers out of a hat for the available spots in each grade level. These numbers will establish the waiting lists for each grade level. The waiting list (numbers only, no names) will be posted on the HLCS website. PLEASE NOTE: these waiting lists are TENTATIVE due to our legal requirement to offer preference to siblings of enrolled students. Step Three: Once the waiting list is established we will begin offering enrollment to students on the waitlist starting with Kindergartners and moving up through the grade levels. All enrollment offers will be communicated via email - so please watch you email closely! If you receive an offer of enrollment, you have 7 calendar days to return your Statement of Commitment, accepting your spot. If any student declines their offer of enrollment, we will move down the waitlist to the next Kindergarten student. Step Four: This process will continue with each additional grade level until all the available spots in grades Kindergarten - 7th Grade have been offered.

BYLAWS & BOARD POLICIES BYLAWS 100 Series 101 - Legal Status of the School District 102 - Equal Education Opportunity 103 - Complaints - Students, Employees, Parents and other Persons 104 - School District Mission Statement 200 Series 201 - Legal Status of the School Board 202 - School Board Officers 203 - Operation of the School Board - Governing Rules 203.1 - School Board Procedures 203.2 - Order of the Regular School Board Meeting 203.5 - School Board Meeting Agenda 203.6 - Consent Agendas 204 - School Board Minutes 205 - Open and Closed Meetings 206 - Public Participation, Meetings, Complaints, Data Privacy 207 - Public Hearings 208 - Development, Adoption, and Implementation of Policies 209 - Code of Ethics 210 - Conflict of Interest 211 - Criminal or Civil Action Against School Board Members 212 - School Board Development 213 - School Board Committees 214 - Out-of-State Travel by School Board Members 300 Series 301 - School District Administration 302 - Director - Roles and Responsibilities 303 - Director - Selection 304 - Director - Work Agreement, Duties and Evaluation 305 - Policy Implementation 306 - Administrator Code of Ethics 320 - Admin of the MN Govt Data Practices Act 400 Series 401 - Equal Employment Opportunity 402 - Disability Nondiscrimination Policy 406 - Public & Private Personnel Data 407 - Employee Right to Know 410 - Family and Medical Leave 412 - Expense Reimbursement 413 - Harassment and Violence 414 - MANDATED REPORTING... 417 - Chemical Use & Abuse 418 - Drug Free Workplace 419 - Tobacco Free Environment 426 - Nepotism 427 - Workload Limits for Certain Special Education Teachers 445 - Whistleblower 482 - Employee Use of Social Media 500 Series 501 - School Weapons Policy 502 - Search of Student Lockers, Desks, and Personal Possessions 503 - Student Attendance 504 - Student Dress and Appearance 506 - Student Discipline 514 - Bullying Prohibition Policy 515 - Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records 516 - Student Medication 521 - Student Disability Nondiscrimination 522 - Sex Nondiscrimination (Title IX) 524 - Internet and Tech Acceptable Use Policy 526 - Hazing Prohibition Policy 531 - The Pledge of Allegiance Policy 533 - Wellness Policy 537 - Kindergarten Lottery Policy 538 - Enrollment Policy 600 Series 601 - School District Curriculum and Instruction 602 - Organization of School Calendar and School Day 603 - Curriculum Development 608 - Instructional Services - Special Education 609 - Religion 609.1 - Religious Accommodation 610 - Field Work 611 - Personnel Volunteer Driver's 612 - Development of Parent and Family Engagement Policies for Title I Programs 616 - School District Systems Accountability 700 Series 704 - Dev and Maint. of an Inventory of Fixed Assets and a Fixed Asset Accounting System 707 - Procurement Procedures 709 - Student Transportation Safety 721 - UGG Policy RE Federal Revenue Sources 736 - Use of School Credit Card 800 Series 801 - Equal Access to School Facilities 802 - Disposition of Obsolete Equipment and Material 806 - Crisis Management Policy 900 Series 903 - Visitors to School Building Additional Policies Board-Staff Linkage Director Limitations Policy Group Health Insurance Coverage Group health insurance is available for full time staff. Staff who are 0.8 FTE qualify for the group health/dental insurance option. Medica is our current health insurance provider and Principal is our current Dental/Vision/Life/Disability insurance provider. Annual renewal occurs in July of each year. For additional information please contact the School Director (Minn. Stat. § 124E.12,subd. 5(b) .

Heartland Lakes Community School exists to empower scholars. Contact us, we'd love to get in touch with you. GIVE TO THE MAX HELP US LEARN & GROW TOGETHER DONATE NOW Contact Us Heartland Lakes 1005 Park Avenue N. Park Rapids, Minnesota (218) 203-5971 info@heartlandlakescs.org Name Email Phone Address Subject Message Submit Thanks for submitting! Take our Community Survey Whether you are a prospective parent, a community member, or just a curious person - take a moment and let us know your thoughts about the future of education in our community. Take the Survey Community Partners If you would like to connect with Heartland Lakes Community School as a community partner - please click below and fill out our Community Support Pledge! There are lots of ways to get involved - from employment, to community experts, to assisting with marketing and hosting events. Whatever you gifts and talents, we're glad you're here. Community Support Pledge Subscribe Form Stay up to date Submit Thanks for submitting!

Heartland Lakes Community School exists to empower scholars. Here are a few frequently asked questions one may have. Frequently Asked Questions What is a charter school? A Charter School is an independent public school of choice that is a common option for students looking for an alternative to traditional public schools. Charter schools do not have any admission requirements or tuition - and they are legal obligated to serve any scholar who enrolls. There are currently 179 operating charter schools in Minnesota! The closest charter schools to our community are in and around the Bemidji area: Schoolcraft Learning Community, Trek North, Voyageurs Expeditionary Learning School, and Aurora Waasekone Community of Learners. Is there tuition for kids to attend? No! There is no tuition for students who attend a charter school. It is a public school and it is funded based on student enrollment by the Department of Education. Who can attend Heartland Lakes Community School? Charter schools do not have admission requirements -so any student can attend! In our opening year (2024-2025 School year) we will be serving students in K-6th grades. Each year we will add an additional grade until we are serving grades K-8th. Keep an eye out for community events and subscribe to our form for updates or if you are interested in future enrollment. Who will teach our kids? Like all public schools in Minnesota, charter schools employ licensed teachers. We are looking specifically for teachers who would love teaching in an environment that matches our mission and philosophy. If you are interested in learning more or applying, subscribe and we'll stay in touch or send us an e-mail! Meet our teachers here ! What curriculum and teaching methods will Heartland Lakes Community School be using? There are a variety of evidenced-based strategies we will use to guide our school community. One of our guiding frameworks will be Expeditionary Learning (EL). EL Education places a strong focus on character, school-wide culture, and mastery of knowledge. By joining the EL Education network, HLCS will join thousands of schools throughout the country in a shared vision of education where students are taught to: be courageous, reach for more than you think is possible, look out for others, and leave no one behind. Students and teachers will explore learning in a way that is challenging, collaborative, adventurous, and meaningful. HLCS will also prioritize Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Restorative Discipline, and Equity for all members of the HLCS learning community. To learn more about EL Education: click here To learn more about SEL: click here To learn more about Restorative Discipline: click here To learn more about Equity in Education: click here Where is Heartland Lakes Community School located? We are located in the Heartland Lakes of Park Rapids, Minnesota. Our location is both accessible to the community and centered around our strong belief that learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. Students will have the opportunity to learn both inside and outside and to explore the land and resources around them. Why does our community need Heartland Lakes Community School? Our community needs HLCS because not every scholar learns in the same way! And while some scholars thrive in a traditional public school, some need a different approach. HLCS will offer that different approach: through outdoor classrooms, expeditionary learning, and a person-centered approach to learning and community. HLCS is for scholars and families looking for something different. Our goal is a small setting with excellent academics, strong community partnerships and lots of time outdoors. How Can I Get Involved? There are lots of ways to get involved with HLCS! You can subscribe to our website and newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest news and events, you can follow us on Facebook or Instagram - or you can pledge your support as either a community partner or future student ! Have additional questions for us? Join us at a future community event or reach out now. Connect with Us Subscribe Form Stay up to date Submit Thanks for submitting!

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