By Jean McDermott

I.J. Holton Intermediate School principal

Spring has arrived and school children may already be excitedly awaiting summer vacation and, for some, a move to a new school next September. In preparation for a smooth transition for fourth-grade students from neighborhood elementary schools to I.J. Holton Intermediate School, a number of events have been planned this spring to prepare them, and their parents, for this next big step in their lives.

All fourth-grade students from Banfield, Neveln, Southgate and Sumner Elementary Schools will be spending three hours at I.J. Holton to become familiar with the building, learn about the kinds of classes they will be taking in a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) School, and experience first-hand what it is like to be part of a band and orchestra. There are many firsts for students at I.J. Holton including choosing an instrument, taking lessons, and being part of a band, orchestra or choir.

During their visit to I.J. Holton Intermediate School on May 4 or May 5, students will participate in three activities: A tour of I.J. Holton School and a presentation about a typical day in the life a fifth grade student; a band demonstration and hands-on experience with different band instruments in the band room; and an orchestra demonstration and hands-on experience with different orchestra instruments in the orchestra room.

Following the student orientation and music exploration day, parent meetings will take place. Parents will have the opportunity to see the student overview presentation, tour the building and ask questions. Parents will also need to attend a music meeting to sign up their child for a band or orchestra instrument so their child is ready to start the band or orchestra program immediately with the start of fifth grade. Band and orchestra are optional programs, however it is encouraged that students begin in fifth grade if they have an interest in being a part of these performing groups throughout middle school and high school.

Parent orientation meetings will take place at 9:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 7.

Orchestra informational meetings will take place at 6 p.m. on May 18 and at 3:30 p.m. on May 19. Band informational meetings will take place on at 3:30 p.m. May 18, and at 6 p.m. May 19. Both parent and child should attend orchestra and band meetings. All meetings will be held at I.J. Holton School at 1800 Fourth Ave SE.

If you would like more information about the school or have questions please contact Jean McDermott, Principal or Farin Sandoz, Grade 5 Counselor at 507-460-1525. We look forward to meeting our new incoming fifth-graders and their parents.