School briefs: Vadnais Heights Elementary revitalizes outdoor classroom

Vadnais Heights Elementary School will use a section of its 7-acre outdoor forest and wetlands as an outdoor classroom this winter.

The project will allow students to perform science experiments and study the environment, district officials said.

"We are thrilled to be able to enhance our already strong curriculum with this experiential learning opportunity for our students," said PTO member Janna Rohlinger. "We know that students learn in many different ways, and we believe this partnership with Tamarack Nature Center will allow us to reach more students effectively."

The $6,500 project is being funded by the Brosious Teaching Grant, the White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation and the Vadnais Heights PTO, and the district's Teaching and Learning Office.

Band will perform at State Capitol Stillwater Junior High School's band will perform at the State Capitol at 11 a.m. Friday. The band has performed at the Capitol annually for 47 years.

Most recently, the band performed at the Heritage Music Festival in Chicago last April and took second place in the Senior High School Class "A" event. Friday's performance is free and open to the public.

DAAREL BURNETTE II