The eNews is the official electronic newsletter of Mahtomedi Middle School.

Course registration for the upcoming school year is always an exciting time, and our focus remains on fostering a culture of belonging where every student feels seen, heard, and supported.  As our students navigated the course registration process, we witnessed a remarkable level of self-awareness and self-direction. It was an opportunity for students to reflect on their unique interests and personal growth. By checking in with themselves—asking, "What truly excites me?" and "Where do I want to grow?"—students practice the self-awareness necessary for long-term well-being.

Empowering student choice is more than just a motivational strategy; it is a foundational pillar of personal well-being. When students transition from passive recipients of a curriculum to active architects of their own learning, the psychological shift directly impacts their mental health and self-image.

Here is how that sense of agency fosters wellness:

1. Reducing Academic Anxiety through Self-Awareness
During the course registration process, students practice self-awareness by assessing their own strengths and limits. When a student chooses a path that aligns with their pace and interests—rather than following a "one-size-fits-all" track—it lowers cortisol levels and reduces the "performance pressure" that often leads to burnout.

2. Building Autonomy and Competence
According to Self-Determination Theory, humans have three basic psychological needs: Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness.
Autonomy: Making a choice provides a sense of control over one's life.
Competence: Selecting a challenge that is "just right" (the Zone of Proximal Development) allows for frequent "wins," which builds genuine self-esteem.

3. Fostering Purpose through Community
When students use their self-directed energy to participate in a charity competition, something like the "Penny War" that our Student Council is sponsoring for us this week, it reinforces eudaimonic well-being—the happiness found in pursuit of a meaningful purpose.
Self-Direction: "I chose to participate."
Social Connection: "I am doing this with my peers."
Altruism: "I am helping my community."

4. Sustainable Habits for the Future
Wellness isn't a destination; it's a practice. By allowing middle schoolers to make choices now, we are letting them "beta test" their decision-making skills in a safe environment. This builds the self-regulation skills they will need in high school and beyond to balance hard work with personal rest.

Go Zephyrs!

Jackie Collins, 
Principal, Mahtomedi Middle School

The cast & crew of Frozen, Jr. have been working hard and they can't wait to see you at the show this weekend! All performances will be held at the Chautauqua Fine Arts Center at Mahtomedi High School. 

Thursday, February 26th - 7:00pm
Friday, February 27th - 7:00pm
Saturday, February 28th - 2:00pm
Sunday, March 1st - 2:00pm

Click here for tickets!

As a part of Spirit Week, the Student Council is sponsoring a Penny War this week to earn funds for the White Bear Area Food Shelf.

Grades earn positive points for each penny in their jar but they can also sabotage other grades with silver coins or paper money, which are negative points. The grade with the most points at the end of the week will win a Hat Day!

We're having fun with some healthy competition while we raise funds for a great cause.

Mark your calendars! The Community Education Summer catalog is coming soon. Registration for classes and events opens on March 17 at 8 am!

How to view the Summer catalog:
Stay tuned–a virtual edition of our catalog will be available on Eleyo soon for you to get a first glance at the hundreds of opportunities coming your way this summer.

Print catalogs will be mailed to Mahtomedi families and the community in early March before Spring Break!

We are still seeking businesses and community organizations to participate in our career event on April 10 for Mahtomedi High School students. The event is hosted by Mahtomedi Community Education and Mahtomedi Public Schools.  Click here to Sign Up

We hope to add more professionals in the fields of Medical/Healthcare, Law/Public Safety, and Marketing/Sales to meet career interests identified in a recent student survey about the event.