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North Lakes Academy hosts School Choice Fair Jan. 24
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Wednesday, 30 January 2008
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Jennifer Larson
Community Editor
Where your child is educated is no longer exclusive to a zip code. On Jan. 24, North Lakes Academy sponsored the first Lakes Area School Choice Fair. The event open to the public was an opportunity for families and parents to learn about the different schools they have to choose from.
“We’re helping folks who never thought they could choose,” said Jackie Saunders, director of NLA.
She said there is a perception among schools – both public and private – they are competing for students with one another. And while they might be when it comes to per pupil funding, Saunders said the fair was a chance for families and parents to make the best match for them.
“We have students who come here and drive-in,” she said, noting the charter school is open enrollment.
Between 200-300 people turned out for the event. Those institutions that participated in the fair included Lakes International Language Academy, North Branch schools, Chisago Lakes Baptist School, St. Peter’s Catholic School, White Bear Lake schools, Wolf Creek Charter School, Chisago Lakes schools, Central Montessori as well as Forest Lake schools.
There were also three vendors on site – Lakes Wear, Forest Lake Embroidery and Global Gallery.
Staff Input
Dr. Carol Beckerleg, director of special education at North Branch School District #138, said it was a nice to be invited to the event. Beckerleg noted that school choice fairs are commonplace in the metro area where she was at previously before coming on staff at North Branch a few years ago.
Lakes International Language Academy Director Cam Hedlund said he is very pleased they were able to be a part of the fair. He was wowed that three public schools were also on hand, which Hedlund said would probably not have happened 10 years ago. He is a former principal of Lino Lakes Elementary School.
“It’s a new age,” Hedlund said. “I’m amazed at the participation.”
Saunders agreed, saying she has seen a shift in the relationship between schools over the last decade.
“It’s a positive for all of us,” Saunders said.
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