Seasons Greetings! I hope that you had a very Merry Christmas!

The School District of Rhinelander is on Winter Break through Jan. 2, but many staff and administrators are busy preparing for next year. On Monday, Jan. 9, we are hosting Taste of the Future, welcoming incoming freshman, current high school students, and parents for a free dinner and the opportunity to meet with local employers and district staff to see firsthand the relevance of their high school education as it directly affects their post-secondary plans and career pathways. We have many local businesses joining us to give our students and their parents hope and a broader vision for their future, including career opportunities in our community. We still have room for additional businesses. If you would like to share commitment and success with the students, please contact me at the Community Education office at (715) 365-9745 for information.

A financial aid and informational meeting will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 6 p.m., in the Rhinelander High School LGI. The meeting will familiarize participants with the financial aid application process. A requirement for any student seeking financial aid is the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This meeting will be an opportunity for seniors and their parents to get more information on completing the FAFSA, and for receiving financial aid for both technical and four colleges.

On Jan. 12, the Northwoods Community Secondary School (NCSS) is hosting an Open House from 4 to 5:30 p.m. We are offering a free community dinner, and NCSS students will present projects they have created during the first semester. Everyone is welcome!

Our first Parents Helping Parents gathering will be held on Thursday, Jan. 26, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Crescent Elementary School. Meet fellow district families, share resources and help each other! Everyone is welcome to attend.

On behalf of everyone at the School District of Rhinelander, best wishes to you and your family for a joyous New Year!

Kim Swisher is available by calling (715) 365-9700, ext. 5701, or via email at swishkim@rhinelander.k12.wi.us.