Math And Science Academy

Ms. Moua-Kieselbach and her Juniors in American Literature are currently reading "The Great Gatsby." On this day, they completed a literature circle where the students came with their own questions for the discussion. They then read Langston Hughes' poem "I, Too" and explored the similarities of the two.

A big shout out to Karthik U. (class of 2026) for being a finalist for the 2025 US Congressional App Challenge. Karthik created an app called EchoLens, which allows anyone to learn about current political, governmental, and social topics by using AI to track and analyze real-time public sentiments. Karthik was officially recognized by Congresswoman Betty McCollum on January 26th, 2026. The app is still in development, but feel free to check it out at the link below. Congrats Karthik for representing MSA and continuing the tradition!!!

https://echoolens.lovable.app/

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and School Safety

Recent news regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in the Minneapolis area has raised concerns within our school community. Math and Science Academy (MSA) remains committed to ensuring that our schools are safe, supportive environments for all students.

All students have a constitutional right to attend public school regardless of immigration status. Schools must remain safe places for teaching and learning.

At this time, there have been no reports of ICE agents approaching students or staff at MSA schools or on school grounds. MSA has established procedures for responding to requests or presence by law enforcement agencies, including ICE, in order to protect the safety, privacy, and well-being of students and staff.

School buildings remain locked during the school day, and all visitors are required to identify themselves before being granted access. Law enforcement officials, including federal agents, are not permitted on school property or in school buildings without a valid judicial warrant. Any request for access to school property must follow district protocols, including compliance with the Visitors to District Buildings and Sites (Policy 903), which outlines required documentation and procedures prior to any contact.

If verified ICE activity or another safety concern occurs near a school, the school may implement a hold to ensure student and staff safety. During a hold, instruction continues while students remain in their classrooms until the hold is lifted.

Students who do not feel safe arriving at or leaving school, or while riding the school bus, may remain at school or on the bus while a parent or family member is contacted.

Staff are trained to prioritize student safety and will not release a student to any individual without proper identification and legally required documentation.

Student Information and Privacy

MSA does not collect or maintain information about the immigration status of students or their families. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of student education records and limits the sharing of personally identifiable information without parental consent or a lawfully issued subpoena or court order.

Families who have concerns or believe their child may need additional support are encouraged to contact the school. Students are also encouraged to speak with a counselor, teacher, or another trusted adult.

Changes in federal immigration enforcement practices do not affect our responsibility to protect the rights and privacy of students, staff, and families.

MSA will continue to follow all district protocols, policies, and applicable state and federal laws, including guidance provided to staff for responding to potential interactions with immigration enforcement officials.

MSA's DECA, in their inaugural year, showed up and showed out, bringing home hardware. We're so proud of the students and Mrs. Duce for putting in the work that has launched DECA with so much success. Special shout out to the students below for their well-deserved accomplishments.

District 1st Place winners -
Emily B. , Celina R. , Ishita C., Chaarvi K., Sehana V., Sahasra T., Ify K., Bella A., Rohail G., Arusha B.

2nd Place winners-
Isra A., Rakshana R., Zaara K.

Advanced to State -
Joanna J., Avya C., Adrina N., Erica N., Moksh K., Viplav M., Grishma S.

Join us in congratulating our December Students of the Month recipients. Way to be locked in all year!

• 6th Grade: Ethan H.

• 7th Grade: Emma R.

• 8th Grade: Derrick G.

• 9th Grade: Sawda H.

• 10th Grade: Lincoln M.

• 11th Grade: Natalie B.

• 12th Grade: Kaia K.

MSA students have been putting in work all year long. These students have risen to the top and are exemplars of what it means to be a Dragon. We were able to celebrate them as November's Student of the Month with their families. Way to go students, we're all so proud of you!

• 6th Grade: Ameya D.

• 7th Grade: Henry W.

• 8th Grade: Eli L.

• 8th Grade: Everett L.

• 9th Grade: Platon T.

• 10th Grade: Phebe B.

• 11th Grade: Ellory B.

• 12th Grade: Ian J.