When the staff of Windom Area Schools reported for the first day of in-service on Monday August 19, they expected to see colleagues and hear about new procedures for the coming year. They were surprised by a group of students cheering them on as they entered the lecture hall for morning meetings. Student Senate President Shelby Erickson organized having a student from every grade level, K-12, join her in welcoming the staff back and delivering a few words of reminder for the important role they play in the lives of our youth. 

Shelby Erickson begins her senior year eager to have one more year to build upon the experiences she’s already had at Windom Area High School. In addition to being Senate President, Erickson takes multiple college courses, participates in three sports and serves on many school and community clubs and groups. 

“Windom Area Schools is unique” Erickson said. “Teachers have a genuine care for students, there are so many trusted adults and students build lifelong relationships with their teachers.”

It’s all a part of the Windom experience. “We want our students to not only have access to more opportunities in academics, athletics, arts and other activities, but also to be able to take advantage of more of them,” said Bryan Joyce, principal of Windom Area High School. “They help students build self-confidence, collaborative relationships,  and other skills they will benefit from their whole lives.”

Erickson said the college classes that she has taken so far have helped her learn to study harder, write better, speak more clearly and confidently all while allowing her to build on the great connections with Windom staff. 

“I’m nervous about my challenging schedule, but I know I have positive relationships with all my great teachers who will continue to support me and encourage my growth as a student,” Erickson added.  

Windom Area Schools aim to provide a comprehensive PreK-12 education that prepares youth to have success in life, find a career and be an active member in their community. Erickson still has one more year, but she already knows what she will take with her beyond academic knowledge and relationships.  “Being kind and positive, leadership experiences, as well as the importance of being politically involved are lessons I will carry with me forever.” Windom Schools seeks to offer many real-world experiences for students, including the opportunity Erickson had to serve as an election judge for the 2018 election.

“The positive experiences our students have, both in school and working together with our community, help shape the type of community we want for our future,” Joyce said. “As the school year gets underway, the team at Windom Area Schools looks forward to continuing to build unique and lifelong relationships with all students. Every day is a chance to get better together.”