Update For Week of September 22, 2023

Dear MSA Community,
This Friday, MSA has our first pepfest of the school year. At this time, we will be recognizing our students who participate in our fall activities: Volleyball, Cross Country, Soccer, Football, Robotics, and Theater. It is exciting to see how many of our students are also involved in activities and clubs at school. That evening will be the Homecoming Volleyball game for our varsity girls’ team who are having a phenomenal year! Then on Saturday, our high schoolers will be having a Homecoming Dance. An incredible finish to a wonderful week!

Update For Week of September 8, 2023

Dear MSA Community,
The first week of school is almost complete. Students are getting accustomed to their schedules and have started into the curriculum in their classes. Buses are still learning their new routes and soon will be on time. The Drop-off and Pick-up procedures are not quite where we expect them to be but with time and routine, they will be much smoother and efficient. After school sports have started competing. The first week of school is an exciting time. I enjoyed seeing the excitement in our students' faces as they reunited with their friends, entered their classrooms and met with their teachers, and welcomed new students. Math and Science Academy is definitely a very SPECIAL place! This is going to be an extraordinary year!

Sincerely,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of August 25, 2023

Dear MSA Families,
The MSA staff is looking forward to seeing everyone at Back to School Night on Thursday, August 31 from 3 to 7 p.m. The 2023-34 school year is going to be a great year! The first day of school is Tuesday, September 5, 2023. If you have any questions or need anything, please contact the school.

Respectfully,
Randy Vetsch
Executive Director

Update For Week of May 26, 2023

Dear MSA Community
As the demand to attend MSA and our space constraints continue, MSA is still committed to expand. There were obstacles this year with raising bond rates and cost of building materials, etc. which drastically impacted our work. The efforts will continue and the Board of Directors and Administration will be hosting a State of the School/Town Hall meeting to update and hear from our stakeholders.

Respectfully,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of May 12, 2023

Dear MSA Community,

Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week. During this week we are appreciating all of our staff members. We are so fortunate to have such incredible teachers and staff and Math and Science Academy. Our PTO is spoiling our staff during this week with special days. Take this opportunity to thank a teacher for all that they do.

Warmly,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of April 21, 2023

Dear MSA Community,

Since the weather forecast for this weekend does not look very pleasant, this would be a great time to come and be entertained at the MSA theater production of “Much Ado About Nothing”. Tickets are still available on the MSA website or at the door. MSA has some incredibly talented students. Hope to see you there!

Have a great weekend!

Warmly,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of April 14, 2023

Dear MSA Community,
This has been a wonderful week. The weather has been such a welcome change.

On Tuesday, sixth through eleventh grade students took the MCA test and then participated in a SEL afternoon that consisted of various activities for students. Students were able to choose 3 different activities throughout the afternoon. These activities consisted of art projects, open gym, a petting zoo, and much more. What an enjoyable day!

Enjoy the weather and have a great weekend!

Warmly,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of April 7, 2023

Dear MSA Community,

Spring has sprung...at least according to the calendar. We hope the melting snow, puddles, and potholes provide a sense of hope that warner weather is on its way.

Next week, students in grades six through twelfth will be taking the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment on Tuesday. The MCAs are the state tests that help districts measure student progress toward Minnesota's academic standards and meet the federal requirements. Make sure your child gets a good night's sleep and eats a healthy breakfast.

Have a great weekend!

Warmly,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of March 31, 2023

Dear MSA Community,

Starting on Monday, April 3, voting will begin for the school board elections. There will be three seats open that will be filled through the election process: 1 - parent seat and 2 - teacher seats. Your vote allows your voice to be heard in the education decision-making process at Math and Science Academy.

Thank you for your continued support and taking the time to vote.

Warmly,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of March 24, 2023

Dear MSA Community,
Monday, March 20 was the first day of Spring and the change in climate. We also look forward to the 2023-24 school year and what changes this year will bring to MSA.

At the MSA Board meeting, our high school principal, Dr. Hinton, presented on some of the exciting changes for next year. There will be new electives for our high school and middle school students. High school will see the additions of Forensic Science, African American Studies, Geology, and CIS (College in the Schools) Biology (University of Minnesota credited class). Middle school will be adding Coding/Study Skills, Engineering Design/Robotics, and Environmental Studies/Astronomy.

Respectfully,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of March 3, 2023

Dear MSA Community,
MSA will be holding Board of Directors elections later this month. We will have one parent seat open and will be filling it this election. The position will begin on July 1, 2023. It is a 3-year commitment. More information will be coming soon. If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Maggie Burggraaff at mburggraaff@mnmsa.org.

I wish everyone a safe, enjoyable, exciting spring break!

Respectfully,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of February 24, 2023

Dear MSA Community,
Math and Science Academy continues to be a School of Choice for many residents in Woodbury and the surrounding area as was evident in this year's enrollment period. This past Wednesday, February 15, MSA held its lottery for enrollment for 2023 - 2024. There were 514 applicants for our school. For next year, there will be waiting lists in all grades except for 12th grade.

Have a great week and thank you for your support!

Warmly,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of February 10, 2023

Dear MSA Families,
February is Black History Month. Paying tribute to the generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in America. Teachers at MSA are dong activities in their classrooms to commemorate this month.

An email was sent earlier this week with an update from the Joint Merger Taskforce. A new survey question was included in that email. There is no deadline as this will be an ongoing question. We understand that parents may have questions throughout the process. Thank you for your input.

Have a great weekend!

Respectfully,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of February 3, 2023

Dear MSA Community,

As we are halfway through the school year, it is a good time to reflect on the first half of the year. So how do you know if your child is truly prepared for the semester ahead? Obviously, report cards are one of the best indicators. Good grades that are consistent with your child's abilities tend to be a good predictor of future performance if students continue putting forth enough effort. Eighty-five percent of MSA students achieved the grades to make the honor roll. That is quite an accomplishment. With consistent effort and fortitude that number can be even higher in the second semester. The second semester brings the MCA test which is another indicator of success (test scores). MCA’s will take place at the end of March and Apri. These are the top two indicators that schools look to to access. MSA will continue to ensure that our students are achieving to the best of their ability.

Warmly,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of January 27, 2023

Dear MSA Community:
There has been much dialogue around expansion and merger as we look into plans for next school year. We have exhausted any remaining space here at our current site and need to look for new locations to continue to provide the high, quality education that we have all come to expect at MSA. With growing bond rates and the cost of building materials, the options have been limited with just expansion. The merger that was brought up this fall in back is back in the mix as a potential option to meet our growing needs while providing many other positive benefits: a K-12 academic offering, better financial stability, consistent enrollment stream, a continual curriculum to drive, and much more. To keep on top of what is happening, visit the school website and enter the Expansion/Merger Tab.

Respectfully,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of January 20, 2023

Dear MSA Community,

We are halfway through the 2022-23 school year. This has been an incredible start to a fantastic year. I am impressed with the quality of our teaching staff and the desire, work ethic, and knowledge of our students. There is a definite correlation between the academic results and the climate at MSA. I look forward to the second half of our school year.

Respectfully,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of January 13, 2023

MSA Community,
For as early as we are in our winter season, we have definitely had our share of e-learning days in response to weather conditions. So far, we have had 4 days. When making those decisions, we follow the guidance of South Washington Public School #833. However, if it is determined that for the safety of our students and staff, we will make the decision to close if 833 does not.

Warmly,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of December 23, 2022

Dear MSA Communities,
On behalf of everyone at Math and Science Academy, I want to offer you our best wishes for the holiday season and for a happy and healthy 2023. I hope that over the break you are able to create amazing memories with family and friends and the opportunity to relax and unwind.

Warmest regards,

Randy

Update For Week of December 9, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

Last night, I had the privilege to attend the MSA Band Concert. The full house in the MSA gym was entertained with musical performances from the Beginning Band to the Wind Ensemble. The four bands that performed were able to showcase their musical talents. I was moved by their ability and music. Congratulations to all the band students and Mr. Sletten on a wonderful concert! MSA is very fortunate to have such an incredible music department.

Next Thursday, December 15, the MSA Choir and Orchestra will be performing at 7 p.m.

Come, Listen and Enjoy!

Warmly,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of November 25, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

During the Thanksgiving season, when we traditionally take time to give thanks, I write to express my personal gratitude. Thank you to our parents and guardians for supporting Math and Science Academy and for sending us your beautiful children. Your children come with strong values, respect, tolerance, and appreciation. Thank you for your commitment to ensuring their success and our success.

Thank you to all that have contributed to our Give to the Max fund campaign. We raised over $36,000 which was 60% of our goal. If you would still like to contribute you can go to the Giving Tab at the top of our home page and click "Give to the Max".

Thank you all for your continued support and dedication to our wonderful school!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of November 11, 2022

Dear MSA Community,
November is National Native American Heritage Month. This is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. This is also a time to educate and raise awareness about Native people.

Next week is the big MSA Give to the Max drive. With the shortage of bus drivers and the challenges of securing buses to transport our students to extra-curricular activities, Math and Science Academy is raising funds this year to purchase two - 15 passenger vans. These vans would allow our activities the opportunity to transport our students to and from events/games/etc.

Thank you for your continued support!

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of November 4, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

Are you looking for something exciting to do this weekend? Come to the MSA fall musical, URINETOWN. To get your tickets go to https://www.showtix4u.com/event-details/67295. The MSA - “Give to the Max” drive is starting. Learn how you can support our incredible school. To find out how you can give to our fundraising event, go to https://www.mnmsa.org/giving/give-max-day/.

I look forward to seeing your all at our Fall Conferences next week.

Respectfully yours,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of October 28, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

Have you purchased your tickets to the MSA Fall Musical? Did you know that MSA is starting an Annual Fund Drive (Give to the Max) to raise money for our school? To find out more and how you can attend and get involved, please read this week's Weekly Communication that is emailed through Skyward. Information for the Fall Musical and Give to the Max can also be found on the school website.

Thank you all for your continued support of our incredible school!

Respectfully yours,

Randy Vetsch
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Update For Week of October 21, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

It is that time of the year: Give to the Max.

With the shortage of bus drivers and the challenges of securing buses to transport our students to extra-curricular activities, Math and Science Academy is raising funds this year to purchase two - 15 passenger vans. These vans would allow our activities the opportunity to transport our students to and from events/games/etc. and not have to rely on parents to take off work, make other arrangements, or for our students to have to drive themselves. They would also allow any and all students the opportunity to participate in activities where transportation have been obstacles in the past. The vans could also be used during the school day to transport students/staff to educational events. MSA is hopeful to be able to offer this service to all our school community, and we hope that you will help us make this happen! Visit our website, www.mnmsa.org and click the "Giving" tab.

Thank you for your support!
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of September 30, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

We have completed our first month of school. We kick off the month of October with our high school Homecoming Dance on October 1st. I have been so impressed with our students and staff. It is such an honor to be part of this incredible school. There is so much going on right now and it is very exciting to see:

* We received another glowing report from Niche.
* Best Public High School in Minnesota (#1 of 461)
* Best Public High School Teachers in Minnesota (#1 of 461)
* Best Middle School in Minnesota (#1 of 384)
*Our expansion is further along as we interviewed a construction management company last week and we are searching for the home for our new school.
*And we have a new potential opportunity as we discuss the possibility of merging with another charter school. (More information was sent in an email)

Warmest Regards,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of September 16, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

What a great couple of weeks we have had at MSA. I have had the opportunity to visit most classrooms and I am impressed with the engagement and focus that I am seeing.

Pizza Day is back! Please check your email for this information and much more from info@mnmsa.org.

Have a great day!

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of September 9, 2022

Dear MSA Community,

School is back in session! The first week of school is almost over, and the week has been extremely successful. It is great seeing students back in classrooms with their smiles and enthusiasm for learning.

This is a good time to revisit a few areas to make sure we are all clear and school is running efficiently and effectively and that all students are safe. Please check your emails for those details from info@mnmsa.org.

Have a great day!

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of September 2, 2022

Dear MSA Community,
Last night’s Back to School Night was incredible! I enjoyed meeting our students and families and seeing how excited everyone was to be back at MSA. I am so impressed with the amazing staff that we have at MSA. They all worked so hard planning, training, and preparing for the start of the new school year.

Follow this link for some very important first day information:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/16nZkR8nPPTHFjfUsLrdpoalbpb1ofuGAV1T0hY2nbRU/edit

Respectfully,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of August 5, 2022

Dear MSA Community,
Last Week, you received an email with instructions on how to register for the upcoming school year. If you did not receive that email please call the school office. Before you will be able access any of your accounts, you will need to complete the registration. Registration is due August 19, 2022. Also, you can pay any outstanding invoices online as well. Students are now able to register for Fall athletics online. Looking forward to seeing you all at the Back to School Night on September 1, 2022 from 3 to 7 p.m.
Respectfully,

Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of July 29, 2022

Dear MSA Community,
It is hard to believe that August is now here. This summer is going by very fast. Look for an email this next week with information regarding registration, fall activities, Back to School Night, etc. We are all looking forward to seeing everyone very soon. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
Respectfully yours,
Randy Vetsch

Update For Week of July 8, 2022

Dear MSA Community,
I hope you all had a great Fourth of July. I have just finished my first week as the new executive director of Math and Science Academy. I am very honored to be part of such a great team and to work with such supportive families and extraordinary students.

This summer, our team will continue to plan and prepare for the upcoming school year to ensure that MSA continues our strong reputation in providing an exceptional education for all of our students. Our goal will be to make MSA even better.

I look forward to meeting and working with all of you. I hope to see you at the Welcome Luncheon on Tuesday, July 12 from 3 to 5 p.m.

Respectfully yours,

Randy Vetsch