Willmar Wisdom: Beyond the Classroom

In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at middle school and high school robotics, a program that blends creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and serious fun. Students explain how each year’s challenge pushes them to try new roles, strategize, and build something together, whether they’re coding, designing, driving, or engineering the robot.

We also talk about how robotics builds confidence and resilience by encouraging students to learn from mistakes and discover strengths they didn’t know they had. And of course, there’s no shortage of laughter, inside jokes, and favorite school lunch debates along the way.

This episode celebrates student voice, hands-on learning, and the community formed when young people are given the space to create and compete.

In this episode of Willmar Wisdom, Superintendent Dr. Bill Adams chats with Alex Wolter, Director of Community Education, about how community education builds connection across Willmar.

Alex shares his journey into the role, the importance of creating programs that bring people together, and how events like the International Heritage Festival celebrate the diversity that makes Willmar special.

It’s a conversation about collaboration, belonging, and the power of community.

Put on your safety goggles and join Dr. Adams for a roundtable discussion with Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers Danielle Mikkelson and Lance Brune. Discover the many opportunities available to students - from CAD to plasma cutting to carpentry - and  learn how Willmar’s CTE programs prepare them for life after high school.

Dr. Bill Adams sits down with Willmar High School’s award-winning Speech team to discuss how public speaking went from public fear number one to a favorite extracurricular activity. Get the inside scoop on how you go from classroom presentations to speaking in front of thousands and discover the dedication these students have to their craft.

Dr. Bill Adams sits down with Willmar High's Student Council members Mady Johnson (President), Aly Johnson (Vice-President), and Solenne Ruff (Secretary) to learn about the ins and outs of student government. Get an inside look at how Student Council impacts the WHS student body, upcoming events they're planning, and why it's important to get involved.

Dr. Adams is joined by Willmar Special Education experts Melissa Wilson, Student Services Director; Barb Eilers, Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) Teacher; and Special Education Coaches Laura Odland and Lyndset Bice-Paffrath, to discuss the wide variety of programs and services available to students with special needs. Learn how our special education staff partner with families to provide exceptional care and education for their students.

Dr. Adams sits down with student-actors Lauren Mueske (Tessie), Courtney Schiesser (Annie), and Eileen Bosch (Boylan Sister), as well as Director, Travis Michelson for a behind-the-scenes look into the fall musical, Annie.

Tickets: https://bit.ly/WHS-Annie

Showtimes:

Thu. Nov 7, Fri. Nov 8, Sat. Nov 9 | 7:00 pm
Sun. Nov 10 | 1:00 pm

Dr. Adams, joined by special guests Katelyn Skudlarek, District Literacy Lead and Kaylee Jahraus, Kindergarten Teacher at Roosevelt Elementary share an overview of the READ Act and an update about literacy in Willmar Public Schools.

Lived Experiences of Willmar Middle School 8th Graders.

Join Dr. Adams as he learns “How To Middle School” with Willmar Middle School students Maya and Nikolai. Get the inside scoop on how to prepare for Middle School, the challenges and rewards of going outside your comfort zone, and the best ways to eat pizza!

Dr. Adams is joined by 2024 grads Tyler Evans, Rebecca Dawson and Richie Becker to discuss their key takeaways and favorite memories from their time in Willmar Public Schools before they enter their next chapter. Plus, they share advice for current Willmar students!