GSL School Update May 8, 2026

Happy Friday GSL……I hope you all have a great weekend. Sorry, this is a little late. Thank you all for being a part of GSL.

Parents, with the year getting near the end, we ask that you take a look at our lost and found to see if your child has a missing sweatshirt, hat, gloves, etc. etc. We have accumulated several items over the past few months. Thank you.

Congratulations once again, to the cast and crew of our spring play, “Alice in Wonderland”, which took place last weekend. It was a great show!!

Class of 2026……Interested in a yard sign, please see the link below. This is also a reminder to send me your senior photo and a photo of your early school years!! Please do this as soon as possible.

The City of Silver Lake is looking for a GSL student to participate as an appointed member/Student Liaison at city council meetings. If you’d like to know more, please contact Mr. Magnuson at the high school.”

The Brownton Cubs are proud to announce the 2nd Annual “Cubs on the Run” 5K! Please see the link below for more information.

Afternoon at the ballpark is happening on May 16 at Vollmer Field. See flyer for more information. It should be a great night of fun and baseball.

Time is running out…Order your Junior High 2025-2026 yearbook soon. On sale through May 15th. Order your students yearbook today online at:
https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool
Enter school code:730530
Click on: Let’s go
Click on: Purchase Yearbook
Enter: Student Information
Add to cart for billing
Cost $21 plus tax………….If you have questions or would like to submit sports/activities photos please
contact Ms. Blazinski lblazinski@gsl.k12.mn.us

LAST CALL FOR HIGH SCHOOL YEARBOOK ORDERS! Order online at GSLyearbook.com by May 28th. Please contact Ms. Braun with any questions at abraun@gslpanthers.net

Please check out the information below on a FREE online training that holds value for anyone with young children. With yesterday being, “National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day”, the link below is good information for families. All helps keep that “GET TO” mindset.

Finally, GSL Schools is currently working on the budget for the remainder of this school year and planning ahead for 2026–2027. As costs continue to rise, we must make adjustments to keep pace with increasing expenses. One recommendation is a $10 increase in student activity participation fees, along with a $10 increase in Activity Pass prices for the 2026–2027 school year. This proposal will be presented to the School Board in May, with final action expected in June. We wanted to keep our families informed as this process moves forward. Thank you.

Take care, Chris

GSL School Update April 24, 2026

Happy Frida GSL. Here is your GSL School Update for today, April 24, 2026. Make it a great Friday and I wish you all a wonderful weekend. Have a great Prom GSL!!

Prom tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at the high school office before 11:00 AM today. Door 32 will open on Saturday, April 25 at 3:00 PM for pre-ticket holders. If you don’t have a ticket, you can purchase tickets at the door starting at 3:30 PM.

The City of Silver Lake is looking for a GSL student to participate as an appointed member/Student Liaison at city council meetings. If you’d like to know more, please contact Mr. Magnuson at the high school.”

Afternoon at the ballpark is happening on May 16 at Vollmer Field. GSL will take on Watertown-Mayer. Bring family and friends! Free admission. See flyer for more information. It should be a great night of fun and baseball.

Grades K-6, check out the Bike-a-thon event on Sunday, May 3, 2026, sponsored by the Brownton Women’s Club and the Brownton Fire Department. This event will run from 1:00-4:00 PM.

As we gear up for our spring season with many of our events outside, this is a friendly reminder that there are no pets allowed on the grounds of GSL Public Schools. Thank you.

Panther Fans – We have a rare opportunity for you! Mrs. Kottke has worked with the popular brand “Waggle” to create a one-time custom order of a GSL Panther Waggle Baseball Cap! To see the hat, get details, and place an order, please click on this link. https://forms.gle/VCkAU6PfTwpnWiSV6 if you have any questions, please reach out to Mrs. Kottke at akottke@gsl.k12.mn.us

The Brownton Cubs are proud to announce the 2nd Annual “Cubs on the Run” 5K! With a continued mission to give back, the Cubs are honored to support a local family in need through this year’s fundraiser.
This year, proceeds will benefit Emma Olmscheid, a 13-year-old bravely battling Grade 4 astrocytoma. The Cubs are grateful for the opportunity to come together as a community to support Emma and the Olmscheid family during this difficult time. The Cubs on the Run is a 5K run/walk and includes a free kids dash and free will donation breakfast. Runners are encouraged to sign up online by April 26th to be guaranteed a t-shirt.
The race will start by the Brownton Civic Center with the path going 3.1 miles around town and ending back at the Civic Center. Please see the flyer for more information.

Thank you for being a part of GSL!! Take care, Chris

GSL School Update March 30, 2026

Happy Monday GSL. Here’s to a great week GSL!

Reminder that there is no school on Friday April 3rd and Monday April 6th. Enjoy the long weekend coming up.

On April 2, 2026, our 7th-12th graders will get an opportunity to visit our career and job fair at the Purple Gym……We have our GSL Community Schools group supporting this event. Our students get an opportunity to see and learn about many different career opportunities that exist in our district. If by chance your business would like to be a part of this event, please email me back. It runs from 10:30-12:30 in the purple gym on Thursday April 2, 2026. We will also provide you lunch afterwards.

Join the Glencoe Fire Department this Saturday for an Easter Egg Hunt at Oak Leaf Park starting at 10:00 AM. See link below for more information.

Check out the GSL Blanket Fundraiser for our students going to on the Peru Trip.

4th-6th graders – March 31st is the last day to take advantage of $100 off for Alaska 2028 and before the price increase on April 1st. Reach out to Mrs. Kottke for questions. akottke@gsl.k12.mn.us

Join the Glencoe Royalty for a “Partea on April 19, 2026. See link below for more information.

Yearbook Information
Elementary Yearbooks are available for purchase from now through March 31, 2026 at a cost of $20. To order online, please use the following link: ybpay.lifetouch.com and enter the ID Code of 6042126.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Mrkvicka at tmrkvicka@gsl.k12.mn.us

Junior High 2025-2026 Yearbooks are now on sale through May 15th
Order your students yearbook today online at:
https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool
Enter school code:730530Click on: Let’s go, click Purchase Yearbook
Enter: Student Information, add to cart for billing
Cost $21 plus tax…any questions, or would like to submit sports/activities photos please contact Ms. Blazinski lblazinski@gsl.k12.mn.us

You can still order High School Yearbooks, please contact Ashley Braun for more information. abraun@gslpanthers.net

Thank you for being a part of GSL. Take care, Chris

GSL School Update March 26, 2026

GSL School Update for March 26, 2026

Spring Fling is happening tomorrow. It should be a great time!! Check out the flyer for more information.

Saturday is the Tim Orth “Pack the gym” Foundation annual basketball game. Please see the attachments for the event, the 3 on 3 tournament and the free basketball clinic for boys and girls. It will be a great day this Saturday!!!

Check our the GSL Blanket Fundraiser for our students going to on the Peru Trip.

Spring Fling is tomorrow at GSL for our Early Childhood. Should be a great event!

Join the Glencoe Royalty for a “Partea on April 19, 2026. See link below for more information.

Elementary Yearbooks are available for purchase from now through March 31, 2026 at a cost of $20. To order online, please use the following link: ybpay.lifetouch.com and enter the ID Code of 6042126.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Mrkvicka at tmrkvicka@gsl.k12.mn.us

Junior High 2025-2026 Year books are now on sale through May 15th
Order your students yearbook today online at:
https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/bty/findmyschool
Enter school code:730530Click on: Let’s go, click Purchase Yearbook
Enter: Student Information, add to cart for billing

Cost $21 plus tax…any questions, or would like to submit sports/activities photos please contact Ms. Blazinski lblazinski@gsl.k12.mn.us

You can still order High School Yearbooks, please contact Ashley Braun for more information. abraun@gslpanthers.net

Reminders:
Students can be at school at 7:30. Please do not arrive sooner unless it is for a specific reason.

Please stay out of the bus lane until all buses have left.

Reminder to take it slow and safe in and around school. Especially before and after school.

Parents, if you have questions on your child’s grades and their academic progress, please make sure you communicate with their teacher. We are here to partner with all of you to make the educational journey successful!

Thank you all for being a part of GSL. Take care, Chris

GSL School Update March 19, 2026

Here is your GSL School Update for today, March 19, 2026.

Reminder that tomorrow is GET TO Day….and it is a prize day…..if you wear your GET TO shirt tomorrow, you will receive a ticket for a chance at some awesome prizes.

We are also asking all of you to wear some silly socks in recognition of World Down Syndrome Day. This event is recognized on the 21st, but at GSL, we are doing this tomorrow at the 20th. Have some fun GSL and support this special day!

It is also a time to celebrate all of the arts at GSL. March is Celebrate the Art’s Month and Music in our school. Next week there is some dress up days in our elementary school. Please see the link below.

High school yearbooks (grades 9-12) are on sale for the discounted price of $45 through March 20th. Orders can be placed at gslyearbook.com. Please email Ashley Braun at abraun@gslpanthers.net with any questions.

Become Part of the GSL Booster Club!
Calling all 7th–12th grade families for the 2026–2027 school year! Help support our students and programs while meeting other committed parents and community members.
Option 1- Become a member. Attend meetings and help with fundraising events and other activities.
Option 2- Be a volunteer. Help at any fundraising event.
More details in the google form.
Fill out this form by April 5th: https://forms.gle/gP8QdWGmqjJfaoGs8

Reminder for 7th-12th grade students……please sign up for Spring Activities. There is still time to sign up, especially our jr. high students!!

Elementary Yearbooks are available for purchase from now through March 31, 2026 at a cost of $20. To order online, please use the following link: ybpay.lifetouch.com and enter the ID Code of 6042126.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Mrkvicka at tmrkvicka@gsl.k12.mn.us

5th and 6th graders and families – An additional informational meeting for the 2028 STEM Trip to Alaska is March 23rd, at 5:30p.m. in Mrs. Kottke’s classroom, 434. Fundraising, itinerary, cost, payment options, and more will all be explained at the meeting.
4th grade families – Do you feel the Alaska trip is an opportunity you want your child to experience? (Keeping in mind, Aug. 2028 is the summer before 7th grade). Please reach out to me on how we can make this happen. Some exceptions are being considered due to the location and itinerary of this specific trip. Amanda Kottke Akottke@gsl.k12.mn.us

GIRLS ON THE RUN is happening at Lakeside.
Exciting news: Girls on the Run is coming to Lakeside for grades 3-5! Visit www.gotrmn.org or contact Ali Carlson at acarlson@gslpanthers.net for more information.

Early Childhood will be hosting their “Spring Fling” on March 27th. Check out the flyer for more information.

Check out the flyer for the Tim Orth Foundation basketball game on March 28, 2026. This is a great event to help raise money for families where children have gone through some type of health condition. It is a great day and night!!

Class of 2026 – please send me your senior photo and a young school photo for our senior slideshow during Celebration Day.

Take care, Chris

GSL School Update March 13, 2026

Have a great weekend everyone…..Here is your GSL School Update for March 13, 2026.

High school yearbooks (grades 9-12) are on sale for the discounted price of $45 through March 20th. Orders can be placed at gslyearbook.com. Please email Ashley Braun at abraun@gslpanthers.net with any questions.

Become Part of the GSL Booster Club!
Calling all 7th–12th grade families for the 2026–2027 school year! Help support our students and programs while meeting other committed parents and community members.
Option 1- Become a member. Attend meetings and help with fundraising events and other activities.
Option 2- Be a volunteer. Help at any fundraising event.
More details in the google form.
Fill out this form by April 5th: https://forms.gle/gP8QdWGmqjJfaoGs8

On March 21st, the global community celebrates World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD). This date—the 21st day of the 3rd month—was chosen specifically because Down syndrome is caused by a third copy of the 21st chromosome.
Since March 21st falls on a Saturday this year, we are celebrating early! On Friday, March 20th, we invite everyone to participate in “Lots of Socks (Silly Sock Day)!” The idea is simple: wear your brightest, loudest, most colorful, or even mismatched socks! Why socks? Because under a microscope, chromosomes actually look a little bit like pairs of socks. Wearing “silly” socks is a fun way to start a conversation about diversity and show our support for people with Down syndrome.
Let’s fill our hallways with color and show the world that our school stands for inclusion!

Reminder for 7th-12th grade students……please sign up for Spring Activities. There is still time to sign up, especially our jr. high students!!

Elementary Yearbooks are available for purchase from now through March 31, 2026 at a cost of $20. To order online, please use the following link: ybpay.lifetouch.com and enter the ID Code of 6042126.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Mrkvicka at tmrkvicka@gsl.k12.mn.us

5th and 6th graders and families – An additional informational meeting for the 2028 STEM Trip to Alaska is March 23rd, at 5:30p.m. in Mrs. Kottke’s classroom, 434. Fundraising, itinerary, cost, payment options, and more will all be explained at the meeting.
4th grade families – Do you feel the Alaska trip is an opportunity you want your child to experience? (Keeping in mind, Aug. 2028 is the summer before 7th grade). Please reach out to me on how we can make this happen. Some exceptions are being considered due to the location and itinerary of this specific trip. Amanda Kottke Akottke@gsl.k12.mn.us

GIRLS ON THE RUN is happening at Lakeside.
Exciting news: Girls on the Run is coming to Lakeside for grades 3-5! Visit www.gotrmn.org or contact Ali Carlson at acarlson@gslpanthers.net for more information.

Early Childhood will be hosting their “Spring Fling” on March 27th. Check out the flyer for more information.

Check out the flyer for the Tim Orth Foundation basketball game on March 28, 2026. This is a great event to help raise money for families where children have gone through some type of health condition. It is a great day and night!!

Class of 2026 – please send me your senior photo and a young school photo for our senior slideshow during Celebration Day.

Take care, Chris

GSL School Update March 5, 2026

Here is your GSL School Update for March 5, 2026. Go Panthers

Tickets for tomorrow’s girls’ basketball game will be sold until noon tomorrow. Game time tonight is at 7:45 PM at the Taylor Center in Mankato. You can purchase at the game as well.

For the boys section game tonight, it is at home vs. St. Clair, and it starts at 7:00 PM. Sorry, but your activity pass does not work for this game.

Reminder for 7th-12th grade students……please sign up for Spring Activities. You can do this through the GSL Website at www.gsl.k12.mn.us and click the “activities” tab. Please do this soon as many activities start on Monday.

Elementary Yearbooks are available for purchase from now through March 31, 2026 at a cost of $20. To order online, please use the following link: ybpay.lifetouch.com and enter the ID Code of 6042126.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Mrkvicka at tmrkvicka@gsl.k12.mn.us

Support our GSL Elementary PTO by purchasing some new Panther Merch for your favorite Panther! Youth and adult sizes are available. Apparel will be delivered right to your child’s homeroom!
The store closes March 8th at 11:00pm
https://shakopeevalleysports.chipply.com/gslpanthers

5th and 6th graders and families – An additional informational meeting for the 2028 STEM Trip to Alaska is March 23rd, at 5:30p.m. in Mrs. Kottke’s classroom, 434. Fundraising, itinerary, cost, payment options, and more will all be explained at the meeting.
4th grade families – Do you feel the Alaska trip is an opportunity you want your child to experience? (Keeping in mind, Aug. 2028 is the summer before 7th grade). Please reach out to me on how we can make this happen. Some exceptions are being considered due to the location and itinerary of this specific trip. Amanda Kottke Akottke@gsl.k12.mn.us

No school tomorrow as it is the end of Tri II. Tri III starts on Monday, March 9, 2026.

GIRLS ON THE RUN is happening at Lakeside.
Exciting news: Girls on the Run is coming to Lakeside for grades 3-5! Visit www.gotrmn.org or contact Ali Carlson at acarlson@gslpanthers.net for more information.

Early Childhood will be hosting their “Spring Fling” on March 27th. Check out the flyer for more information.

Class of 2026 – please send me your senior photo and a young school photo for our senior slideshow during Celebration Day.

Have a great Friday and a wonderful weekend. Take care, Chris

GSL School Update March 2, 2026

Happy Read Across America Day………Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!! Remember, if any of you need a book to read for enjoyment, please send me the name of the book and the author…..you need to do this by email!!

Tickets for tonight’s girls’ basketball game will be sold until noon today. Game time tonight is at 6:00 PM at the Taylor Center in Mankato. You can purchase at the game as well.

Check out the link for more information on the Glencoe Royalty.

Elementary Yearbooks are available for purchase from now through March 31, 2026 at a cost of $20. To order online, please use the following link: ybpay.lifetouch.com and enter the ID Code of 6042126.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Mrkvicka at tmrkvicka@gsl.k12.mn.us

Support our GSL Elementary PTO by purchasing some new Panther Merch for your favorite Panther! Youth and adult sizes are available. Apparel will be delivered right to your child’s homeroom!
The store closes March 8th at 11:00pm
https://shakopeevalleysports.chipply.com/gslpanthers

5th and 6th graders and families – An additional informational meeting for the 2028 STEM Trip to Alaska is March 23rd, at 5:30p.m. in Mrs. Kottke’s classroom, 434. Fundraising, itinerary, cost, payment options, and more will all be explained at the meeting.
4th grade families – Do you feel the Alaska trip is an opportunity you want your child to experience? (Keeping in mind, Aug. 2028 is the summer before 7th grade). Please reach out to me on how we can make this happen. Some exceptions are being considered due to the location and itinerary of this specific trip. Amanda Kottke Akottke@gsl.k12.mn.us

Looking ahead, there is no school on Friday, March 6, 2026. This is the end of the trimester workshop day for staff.

Reminder for 7th-12th grade students……please sign up for Spring Activities. You can do this through the GSL Website at www.gsl.k12.mn.us and click the “activities” tab. Spring is right around the corner!!

The boys and girls track meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 3 at 6:00 PM in the Community Room.

GIRLS ON THE RUN is happening at Lakeside.
Exciting news: Girls on the Run is coming to Lakeside! Girls on the Run is an afterschool program that uses the power of being active to prepare 3rd – 5th grade girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. Over the course of the 8-week, 16-lesson season, participants will learn life-changing lessons about healthy friendships, teamwork, decision-making, self-respect and more, all while preparing to complete a 5K. Open to all 3rd – 5th grade girls; no previous running experience required, and generous financial aid is available. Registration is open at www.gotrmn.org now! Our season will be at Lakeside each Tuesday & Thursday 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. from April 7 – May 30/31, culminating with a celebratory Girls on the Run 5K the weekend of May 30/31. Space is limited so register early! Visit www.gotrmn.org or contact Ali Carlson at acarlson@gslpanthers.net for more information.

Ali Vasek Carlson
7th Grade History
GSL Junior High

Early Childhood will be hosting their “Spring Fling” on March 27th. Check out the flyer for more information.

Class of 2026 – please send me your senior photo and a young school photo for our senior slideshow during Celebration Day.

Let’s make it a great week Panthers!!! Take care, Chris

GSL School Update February 27, 2026

Here is your GSL School Update for today, February 27, 2026.

Girls’ basketball team has advanced to the semifinal game at Mankato State on Monday, March 2 at 6 PM. Pre-sale tickets are available at the Panther Field house. Adult tickets are $10 and student tickets are $5 dollars. Tickets are also available at Mankato State at the door. Go Panthers!

Elementary Yearbooks are available for purchase from now through March 31, 2026 at a cost of $20. To order online, please use the following link: ybpay.lifetouch.com and enter the ID Code of 6042126.
If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Mrkvicka at tmrkvicka@gsl.k12.mn.us
Thank you for your support of the 2026 Elementary Yearbook.

Support our GSL Elementary PTO by purchasing some new Panther Merch for your favorite Panther! Youth and adult sizes are available. Apparel will be delivered right to your child’s homeroom!
The store closes March 8th at 11:00pm
https://shakopeevalleysports.chipply.com/gslpanthers

5th and 6th graders and families – An additional informational meeting for the 2028 STEM Trip to Alaska is March 23rd, at 5:30p.m. in Mrs. Kottke’s classroom, 434. Fundraising, itinerary, cost, payment options, and more will all be explained at the meeting.
4th grade families – Do you feel the Alaska trip is an opportunity you want your child to experience? (Keeping in mind, Aug. 2028 is the summer before 7th grade). Please reach out to me on how we can make this happen. Some exceptions are being considered due to the location and itinerary of this specific trip.
Amanda Kottke
Akottke@gsl.k12.mn.us
7th & 8th Grade Science Teacher

Looking ahead, there is no school on Friday, March 6, 2026. This is the end of the trimester workshop day for staff.

Reminder for 7th-12th grade students……please sign up for Spring Activities. You can do this through the GSL Website at www.gsl.k12.mn.us and click the “activities” tab. Spring is right around the corner!!

Glencoe Royalty
Please see the flyer about information from the Glencoe Royalty. This is a great program and opportunity. Please check it out.
Little Miss:
https://forms.gle/QxcfwKeyoFaH1jqAA
Miss:
https://forms.gle/wR29RoLyUWZvSMTz6

GIRLS ON THE RUN is happening at Lakeside.
Exciting news: Girls on the Run is coming to Lakeside! Girls on the Run is an afterschool program that uses the power of being active to prepare 3rd – 5th grade girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. Over the course of the 8-week, 16-lesson season, participants will learn life-changing lessons about healthy friendships, teamwork, decision-making, self-respect and more, all while preparing to complete a 5K. Open to all 3rd – 5th grade girls; no previous running experience required, and generous financial aid is available. Registration is open at www.gotrmn.org now! Our season will be at Lakeside each Tuesday & Thursday 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. from April 7 – May 30/31, culminating with a celebratory Girls on the Run 5K the weekend of May 30/31. Space is limited so register early! Visit www.gotrmn.org or contact Ali Carlson at acarlson@gslpanthers.net for more information.

Ali Vasek Carlson
7th Grade History
GSL Junior High

Early Childhood will be hosting their “Spring Fling” on March 27th. Check out the flyer for more information.

Class of 2026 – please send me your senior photo and a young school photo for our senior slideshow during Celebration Day.

Have a great Friday and weekend. Take care, Chris

GSL School Update February 23, 2026

Happy Monday GSL……here is your GSL School Update for today, February 23, 2026.

GSL Girls basketball game tonight is the 1st round of sections. Game time is at 7:00 PM. Unfortunately, your activity pass does not work for this game.

Support our GSL Elementary PTO by purchasing some new Panther Merch for your favorite Panther! Youth and adult sizes are available. Apparel will be delivered right to your child’s homeroom!
The store closes March 8th at 11:00pm
https://shakopeevalleysports.chipply.com/gslpanthers

Looking ahead, there is no school on Friday, March 6, 2026. This is the end of the trimester workshop day for staff.

Reminder for 7th-12th grade students……please sign up for Spring Activities. You can do this through the GSL Website at www.gsl.k12.mn.us and click the “activities” tab. Spring is right around the corner!!

Glencoe Royalty
Please see the flyer about information from the Glencoe Royalty. There will be information during an upcoming lunch period. We will let you know those dates. This is a great program and opportunity. Please check it out.
Please click on the link for more information and/or you can sign up with the links below.
Little Miss:
https://forms.gle/QxcfwKeyoFaH1jqAA

Miss:
https://forms.gle/wR29RoLyUWZvSMTz6

Representatives will be at lunch once again on Wednesday if anyone has questions.

GIRLS ON THE RUN is happening at Lakeside.
Exciting news: Girls on the Run is coming to Lakeside! Girls on the Run is an afterschool program that uses the power of being active to prepare 3rd – 5th grade girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. Over the course of the 8-week, 16-lesson season, participants will learn life-changing lessons about healthy friendships, teamwork, decision-making, self-respect and more, all while preparing to complete a 5K. Open to all 3rd – 5th grade girls; no previous running experience required, and generous financial aid is available. Registration is open at www.gotrmn.org now! Our season will be at Lakeside each Tuesday & Thursday 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. from April 7 – May 30/31, culminating with a celebratory Girls on the Run 5K the weekend of May 30/31. Space is limited so register early! Visit www.gotrmn.org or contact Ali Carlson at acarlson@gslpanthers.net for more information.

Ali Vasek Carlson
7th Grade History
GSL Junior High

Early Childhood will be hosting their “Spring Fling” on March 27th. Check out the flyer for more information.

Let’s make it a great week GSL. Take care, Chris