This National School Psychology Week, we’re celebrating the incredible team that supports, empowers, and advocates for our students every day!
A huge thank you to Christine Niersel, Elaina Irmick, and Alyssa Wiedeman (pictured top to bottom) for everything they do to help our students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our schools are a better, brighter place because of your dedication! 💙
#SchoolPsychWeek #WeAreMAPS
A huge thank you to Christine Niersel, Elaina Irmick, and Alyssa Wiedeman (pictured top to bottom) for everything they do to help our students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our schools are a better, brighter place because of your dedication! 💙
#SchoolPsychWeek #WeAreMAPS
Check out the latest Superintendent's Corner on our website here: https://merrillareasd.sites.thrillshare.com/page/superintendents-corner
This month focuses on good news from our District Annual Meeting & Budget Hearing - check it out!
#WeAreMAPS
This month focuses on good news from our District Annual Meeting & Budget Hearing - check it out!
#WeAreMAPS
As school fall sports seasons reach their playoff peaks, November is an awesome month for real-time math!
Statistics and data are huge parts of our math curriculum across all grade levels. You can easily bring these lessons home during weekend games:
Elementary: Track scores, compare team totals, and practice mental addition during games.
Middle & High School: Calculate completion percentages, batting averages, or yardage per carry!
Math makes sports strategy come alive! What sports stats is your family tracking this season? Let us know in the comments!
#WeAreMAPS
Statistics and data are huge parts of our math curriculum across all grade levels. You can easily bring these lessons home during weekend games:
Elementary: Track scores, compare team totals, and practice mental addition during games.
Middle & High School: Calculate completion percentages, batting averages, or yardage per carry!
Math makes sports strategy come alive! What sports stats is your family tracking this season? Let us know in the comments!
#WeAreMAPS
MAPS Leaders Present at Statewide Special Education Conference
Last Thursday, Amanda Patterson, Director of Curriculum & Instruction, and Amber Haluska, Director of Pupil Services and Special Education, represented Merrill Area Public Schools at the Wisconsin Council of Administrators of Special Services (WCASS) conference. They participated in a panel discussion titled Explicit Instruction as Specially Designed Instruction, sharing insights on how high-quality instructional practices can support the success of all students.
Amanda and Amber highlighted MAPS’ districtwide commitment to the belief that good instruction is good instruction for all. They discussed how district leadership teams coach and support staff in implementing explicit instruction, while aligning curriculum and special education practices to ensure students receive the instruction they need to succeed.
The discussion also explored how explicit instruction and increased student engagement, including Opportunities to Respond, help educators address individual student needs, build specific skills, and provide meaningful access to grade-level content. These practices offer a framework for designing intentional, targeted instruction that supports the diverse learning needs of students.
We are proud to see MAPS leaders sharing our district’s work and contributing to conversations that strengthen instructional practices and improve learning opportunities for all students! #WeAreMAPS
Last Thursday, Amanda Patterson, Director of Curriculum & Instruction, and Amber Haluska, Director of Pupil Services and Special Education, represented Merrill Area Public Schools at the Wisconsin Council of Administrators of Special Services (WCASS) conference. They participated in a panel discussion titled Explicit Instruction as Specially Designed Instruction, sharing insights on how high-quality instructional practices can support the success of all students.
Amanda and Amber highlighted MAPS’ districtwide commitment to the belief that good instruction is good instruction for all. They discussed how district leadership teams coach and support staff in implementing explicit instruction, while aligning curriculum and special education practices to ensure students receive the instruction they need to succeed.
The discussion also explored how explicit instruction and increased student engagement, including Opportunities to Respond, help educators address individual student needs, build specific skills, and provide meaningful access to grade-level content. These practices offer a framework for designing intentional, targeted instruction that supports the diverse learning needs of students.
We are proud to see MAPS leaders sharing our district’s work and contributing to conversations that strengthen instructional practices and improve learning opportunities for all students! #WeAreMAPS
Coffee with the Superintendent
Join Superintendent Shannon Murray next week for an informal conversation about what’s happening in the district!
🗓 Tuesday, October 27, 2026
🕗 8:00–9:00 a.m.
📍 Auntie Ray’s Coffee House – 812 E. 1st Street, Merrill
This is a great opportunity to learn more about district updates and ask questions in a casual setting.
Topics will include:
- Merrill High School facilities study
- Student achievement
- Tax levy
We hope to see you there! Please share! #WeAreMAPS
Join Superintendent Shannon Murray next week for an informal conversation about what’s happening in the district!
🗓 Tuesday, October 27, 2026
🕗 8:00–9:00 a.m.
📍 Auntie Ray’s Coffee House – 812 E. 1st Street, Merrill
This is a great opportunity to learn more about district updates and ask questions in a casual setting.
Topics will include:
- Merrill High School facilities study
- Student achievement
- Tax levy
We hope to see you there! Please share! #WeAreMAPS
Celebrating Our School Board!
Behind every strong school district is a team of dedicated school board members who give their time, energy, and leadership to support students, staff, and the entire school community.
This week, during Wisconsin School Board Week, we want to recognize and thank the members of the Merrill Area Public Schools Board of Education for their commitment to our students and their dedication to helping our schools move forward.
School board service takes time, thoughtful decision-making, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to public education. We are grateful for the many hours our Board members dedicate to learning, listening, and serving the Merrill community.
Thank you for all you do for MAPS and our Bluejays!
#WISchoolBoardWeek #WeAreMAPS
Behind every strong school district is a team of dedicated school board members who give their time, energy, and leadership to support students, staff, and the entire school community.
This week, during Wisconsin School Board Week, we want to recognize and thank the members of the Merrill Area Public Schools Board of Education for their commitment to our students and their dedication to helping our schools move forward.
School board service takes time, thoughtful decision-making, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to public education. We are grateful for the many hours our Board members dedicate to learning, listening, and serving the Merrill community.
Thank you for all you do for MAPS and our Bluejays!
#WISchoolBoardWeek #WeAreMAPS
Beautiful fall sunshine + recess time = endless big smiles!
Our Pine River School for Young Learners (PRSYL) students made the most of this gorgeous autumn day out on the playground today! From running around with friends to enjoying the fresh air, our youngest learners are soaking up every bit of fall fun.
#WeAreMAPS
Our Pine River School for Young Learners (PRSYL) students made the most of this gorgeous autumn day out on the playground today! From running around with friends to enjoying the fresh air, our youngest learners are soaking up every bit of fall fun.
#WeAreMAPS
A Little PTO Spotlight at Central Office!
Have you checked out the bulletin boards at Central Office lately?
This month, Tori Bogdonovich put together some great displays highlighting our amazing Elementary PTO and the important work they do to support our students and schools!
Be sure to take a look at the boards the next time you’re at Central Office - and a big THANK YOU to Tori for helping us showcase and celebrate our wonderful PTO!
We appreciate all the time, creativity, and support that goes into making our schools a great place for students and families!
#WeAreMAPS
Today is School Custodian Appreciation Day, and we want to send a huge THANK YOU to the incredible custodial team that keeps our schools clean, safe, and welcoming every single day!
Drop a 👏 in the comments to help us say thank you to our hardworking team!
#WeAreMAPS
Drop a 👏 in the comments to help us say thank you to our hardworking team!
#WeAreMAPS
October is Principal Appreciation Month - we are thankful for ours! #WeAreMAPS
Please join us in congratulating MAPS School Board President Kevin Blake on being recognized by the Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) for his commitment to Merrill Area Public Schools and public education!
Kevin has earned Level 4 in the WASB Member Recognition Program, which recognizes school board members who participate in professional development opportunities focused on effective school board leadership, student achievement, and public education.
The WASB Member Recognition Program includes five achievement levels, with members earning points through participation in the WASB State Convention, workshops, training opportunities, and other professional development activities.
WASB Executive Director Dan Rossmiller recognized Kevin’s achievement at last night’s WASB Regional Meeting.
We are grateful for Kevin’s dedication to continuous learning and his commitment to serving the students, families, staff, and community of Merrill Area Public Schools. Congratulations, Kevin! #WeAreMAPS
Kevin has earned Level 4 in the WASB Member Recognition Program, which recognizes school board members who participate in professional development opportunities focused on effective school board leadership, student achievement, and public education.
The WASB Member Recognition Program includes five achievement levels, with members earning points through participation in the WASB State Convention, workshops, training opportunities, and other professional development activities.
WASB Executive Director Dan Rossmiller recognized Kevin’s achievement at last night’s WASB Regional Meeting.
We are grateful for Kevin’s dedication to continuous learning and his commitment to serving the students, families, staff, and community of Merrill Area Public Schools. Congratulations, Kevin! #WeAreMAPS
Custodial/Maintenance Employee of the Month!
Congratulations Matt Rydeski!!
We want to extend a massive thank you and a bittersweet farewell to Matt Rydeski, who has been an invaluable asset to the School District of Merrill as a summer worker since 2021. Throughout his many summers with us, Matt’s exceptional work ethic, reliability, and dedication have left a lasting impact on our schools and community. As the summer winds down, Matt is heading back to UW-Stevens Point to complete his final semester of college before embarking on his next big adventure in Minnesota. Thank you, Matt, for your years of hard work and commitment; the entire district wishes you the absolute best of luck in your final semester and all your future endeavors!
Thank you, Matt, for your hard work and commitment! #WeAreMAPS
Congratulations Matt Rydeski!!
We want to extend a massive thank you and a bittersweet farewell to Matt Rydeski, who has been an invaluable asset to the School District of Merrill as a summer worker since 2021. Throughout his many summers with us, Matt’s exceptional work ethic, reliability, and dedication have left a lasting impact on our schools and community. As the summer winds down, Matt is heading back to UW-Stevens Point to complete his final semester of college before embarking on his next big adventure in Minnesota. Thank you, Matt, for your years of hard work and commitment; the entire district wishes you the absolute best of luck in your final semester and all your future endeavors!
Thank you, Matt, for your hard work and commitment! #WeAreMAPS
Hello Families,
As we get closer to the first day of school, Kobussen Buses will be doing a “dry run” day on Monday, August 24, 2026. What this means is all buses will be doing their morning, mid day, and afternoon routes at their scheduled times. They will be stopping at each stop to verify times are accurate. If you would like to be out at your stop at your designated time, you will be able to see your school bus as well as the driver for the year. To get your student(s) bus information, please go to your StopFinder App and get your student(s) times and bus/route number. Kobussen Buses will be sending out information about the StopFinder App shortly, if they haven’t already. As always, times can vary up to 10 minutes so please be patient. After they complete their “dry run” day, you may notice in your StopFinder App some times may change so please review your information later next week.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call Kobussen Buses office at 715-539-8121 option 1.
Thank you, enjoy the rest of your summer!
As we get closer to the first day of school, Kobussen Buses will be doing a “dry run” day on Monday, August 24, 2026. What this means is all buses will be doing their morning, mid day, and afternoon routes at their scheduled times. They will be stopping at each stop to verify times are accurate. If you would like to be out at your stop at your designated time, you will be able to see your school bus as well as the driver for the year. To get your student(s) bus information, please go to your StopFinder App and get your student(s) times and bus/route number. Kobussen Buses will be sending out information about the StopFinder App shortly, if they haven’t already. As always, times can vary up to 10 minutes so please be patient. After they complete their “dry run” day, you may notice in your StopFinder App some times may change so please review your information later next week.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call Kobussen Buses office at 715-539-8121 option 1.
Thank you, enjoy the rest of your summer!
Due to the continued air quality issues, combined with our building’s HVAC system being unable to maintain a high-level of air quality in our building, the MAPS District Office will be closed Thursday, July 16, 2026.
If you need assistance, please call 715-536-4581.
Thank you for understanding.
We're looking for Reading Tutors at Kate Goodrich and Washington Elementary Schools! ReadingCorps provides reading tutoring to Kindergarten through 3rd grade students in small groups. While you’re making a difference, you’ll receive a paycheck every two weeks and qualify for perks like tuition assistance, federal student loan forbearance, interest repayment, and more!
LEARN HOW TO BECOME A TUTOR AT Join.ReadingandMath.org QUESTIONS? Call 866-859-2825.
#WeAreMAPS
LEARN HOW TO BECOME A TUTOR AT Join.ReadingandMath.org QUESTIONS? Call 866-859-2825.
#WeAreMAPS
Please join us in welcoming Donna Vorpagel-Gunther to the Merrill Area Public Schools Board of Education!
Donna was selected by the Board to fill a vacancy and will serve a limited-term through April 2027.
We appreciate her willingness to serve our students, staff, families, and community, and we look forward to working with her in this important role.
Welcome, Donna! 💙
#WeAreMAPS
Donna was selected by the Board to fill a vacancy and will serve a limited-term through April 2027.
We appreciate her willingness to serve our students, staff, families, and community, and we look forward to working with her in this important role.
Welcome, Donna! 💙
#WeAreMAPS
Susan Ryman from IncredibleBank Merrill, presented to Washington 4th graders on Thursda,y April 23rd. It was National Teach Kids to Save Day. She shared how coins are made and how saving a little at a time can add up quickly. The 4th graders had great questions for her about money and how it is made and circulated. Each 4th grader received a half dollar to start their savings collection. #WeAreMAPS
💙 Administrative Professionals Day 💙
Today we recognize and thank our incredible administrative professionals for everything they do to support our schools, staff, students, and families.
Your organization, dedication, and attention to detail help keep our buildings running smoothly each and every day. You are often the first friendly face people see and a steady source of support behind the scenes.
Thank you for all you do - we truly appreciate you! 👏
#WeAreMAPS
Today we recognize and thank our incredible administrative professionals for everything they do to support our schools, staff, students, and families.
Your organization, dedication, and attention to detail help keep our buildings running smoothly each and every day. You are often the first friendly face people see and a steady source of support behind the scenes.
Thank you for all you do - we truly appreciate you! 👏
#WeAreMAPS
Due to the expected storms at the end of the school day today, all
Merrill public schools will be dismissing one hour earlier than normal
today. Sorry for the short notice and inconvenience. Have a good
weekend and be safe.
Pine River School for Young Learners - 1:30 PM Dismissal
Kate Goodrich Elementary - 2:20 PM Dismissal
Washington Elementary - 2:20 PM Dismissal
Prairie River Middle School - 2:25 PM Dismissal
Merrill High School - 2:25 PM Dismissal
Merrill public schools will be dismissing one hour earlier than normal
today. Sorry for the short notice and inconvenience. Have a good
weekend and be safe.
Pine River School for Young Learners - 1:30 PM Dismissal
Kate Goodrich Elementary - 2:20 PM Dismissal
Washington Elementary - 2:20 PM Dismissal
Prairie River Middle School - 2:25 PM Dismissal
Merrill High School - 2:25 PM Dismissal
Due to the impending weather, all after-school activities have been cancelled for today, April 17, 2026. Please share. #WeAreMAPS