Harlan Visit to OMS

The OMS marketing team connected with Harlan educators who came to OMS last week to learn more about the powerful learning opportunities we provide our students.  The article below was written by the OMS marketing students to highlight the visit.

“I came here with no expectations, but I am incredibly impressed,” stated Jaden Vander Burg. It was an early morning for Harlan educators who came to visit Okoboji Middle School. Upon arrival, they were greeted by staff members and students as they started their day. “Every single one of your staff has been extremely welcoming,” Katie Arentson exclaimed.

After being welcomed to OMS, they took a tour through all the elective classes.  From drama class to woodworking, the educators from Harlan were beyond impressed. They loved all the variety of classes, and they loved how everyone was engaged in learning. They also learned about what Pioneering Pathways represents for students in our District and how we use the Universal Constructs, to support growth, culminating in the eighth-grade Capstone experience.

Their next stop was the No Boundaries space to see the groups in action. They spent their time learning from the team members about their different initiatives and what skills they have really improved on so far this school year. 

On their last stop, they learned how Alex Spooner incorporates brand-new technology into classes (like creating games using virtual reality programs). This is another area where students can tap into their passions. Having seen Alex Spooner’s Robotics and Curious Minds classes, one of the visitors added, “I’m very surprised at how updated they are with their materials and technology.”

If your school district is interested in setting up a tour contact Ryan Cunningham, OMS Principal at rcunningham@okobojischools.org