Special Program Highlights

Starbase
Starbase combines financial and in-kind resources from the Minnesota National Guard, The Minnesota Department of Transportation, Northwest Airlines and the Metropolitan Airports Commission. The program is hands-on and interactive, incorporating scientific inquiry, experimentation and exploration in ways that inspire students to learn. Interaction with aerospace professionals and tours in real aircraft at the Minnesota Air Guard Base give students opportunities to expand their awareness of careers and experience science, mathematics and technology in action.

Environmental Camp
Camp St. Croix is a residential camp experience that runs programs which emphasis team building, adventure-based training and development for students. Situated on a high bluff overlooking the St. Croix River, students are surrounded by a number of habitats. Three major ravines lead down to the river and are home to a diverse wildlife population. Old fields and restored prairie provide an outstanding river study environment. Camp St. Croix puts a major emphasis on the care and respect of one's self, other and the natural environment.

Check Book Program
All middle school students are required to carry mock checkbooks. They receive a biweekly "paycheck", from which they must pay for various materials and fees, including instructional fees, textbook rental and charges for irresponsible behavior, which includes detentions, lost books and late assignments. To get their biweekly paycheck students must complete a timecard and calculate deductions for taxes Students who have extra money may purchase rewards, such as out of uniform passes and pizza parties. Students learn not only basic math skills, but also how to manage money, take responsibility for deadlines, keep accurate financial records and relate to a work experience.

Business Plan & Power Point Program
Our middle school students have the opportunity to increase their math skills and computer skills by developing business concepts, plan their businesses, creating letterhead, corporate logos and business cards. The business plan includes start up costs, financial statements, marketing concepts as well as job descriptions. The students end the class by making a power point presentation.

Music Program
Approximately 25% of our student body participate in our music program. The choir is for students in grades 6-8. This group performs for school functions and community activities. Choraliers is for students in grades 4&5. Choraliers help prepare students for choir. They also perform at school and community events.

Homework Center
Open to students in grades 3-8 who are having difficulty completing or understanding their assignments. The homework center is staff by Risen Christ teachers.

Accelerated Reader
Accelerated Reader is our most popular program. It is an exciting, innovative computerized reading program designed to motivate our students to read. The program utilizes computer skills and for motivation has rewards for students.

English As a Second language
Risen Christ has an educational assistant working with our students whose primary language is Spanish. We offer this English instruction with our K-2 Spanish speaking students where the need is the greatest. This position also serves as a communication link between the school and its Spanish-speaking parents.

T.E.A.M. C.A.R.E Project
Together Everyone Achieves More Creating A Respectful Environment. The program's purpose is to create a school-wide environment of respect and to make Risen Christ a safe; caring and challenging place in which to learn. The program helps the students cooperate act responsibly, to respect themselves and others, and to encourage and enjoy others. They are learning non-violent methods of conflict resolution.

For additional information regarding development at Risen Christ, please contact Maureen Novak at 612-822-5329 or mnrisenchrist@uswest.net.