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ISD 361: Falls High School Switching to Trimester Schedule, AA Degree Pathway Coming in 2026-27

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Falls High School is making one of its most significant academic changes in years. Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, FHS will transition to a trimester schedule — an update that expands course offerings and opens a new path for students to earn a college degree before they ever walk across the graduation stage.

ISD 361 Bronco Beat school newsletter
The Bronco Beat newsletter brings updates from across ISD 361 to Falls-area families.

Trimester Schedule and AA Degree Opportunity

Under the new trimester model, students will take fewer classes at a time — designed to encourage deeper focus and stronger engagement with coursework. The schedule also creates more flexibility for credit recovery and for exploring a wider range of elective courses throughout the year.

Perhaps the most exciting development: in partnership with Lake Superior College, students will have access to College in the Schools coursework that can lead to a full Associate of Arts (AA) degree — earned while still in high school. School leaders say this gives Falls students a meaningful head start on their postsecondary goals.

Registration for the 2026-27 year has already been completed. Feedback gathered from students and families during that process is being used to make future registration more user-friendly.

2026-27 School Calendar Approved

The ISD 361 school board has approved the calendar for the upcoming school year. Key dates and changes for families to plan around:

  • First day of school: September 1, 2026 (an early start permitted under HF1124 for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years only)
  • Last day of school: May 27, 2027
  • Graduation date: To be determined; the school will actively seek input from students, families, and the broader community
  • Wednesday early-outs: Eliminated beginning next fall
  • Daily school hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
ISD 361 school calendar and schedule information
The board-approved 2026-27 calendar has been released early to help families plan ahead.

Community Presentation: Tony Hoffman on Substance Use and Recovery

The International Falls community is invited to an upcoming presentation by Tony Hoffman — a nationally recognized speaker, former BMX Elite Pro, Olympic coach, and powerful voice for substance use prevention and mental health awareness. Tony’s story includes overcoming addiction, homelessness, and incarceration before rebuilding his life and dedicating it to helping youth and families understand the realities of substance use and the power of recovery.

The event is open to a wide audience, including parents, grandparents, youth ages 12 and older, healthcare and faith community members, law enforcement, educators, civic leaders, nonprofit staff, and anyone who cares about the future of our community’s youth. Registration is requested — sign up via SurveyMonkey to help organizers prepare.

Broncos Finish 3rd at Ojibwe Quiz Bowl

Congratulations to ISD 361 students who competed in the MIEA Ojibwe Quiz Bowl — they earned a 3rd place finish. Well done, Broncos!

PCA Mill Manager Visits Careers Classes

7th and 8th grade students in careers classes recently welcomed the mill manager from PCA for a classroom visit. Students had the opportunity to ask questions about the mill’s daily operations, the variety of departments that keep it running, and the role it plays in supporting the local economy — a meaningful look at career pathways available right here in the Falls.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Safety Reminders

Safety concerns at Falls High School are continuing into March, and the school is asking all families to follow proper arrival and dismissal procedures. Key reminders for grades 7–12:

  • Use the student parking lot lane along the poolside doors for both drop-off and pick-up
  • Do not use the front of the school — that area is reserved for buses only
  • Cars stopped in front block sightlines for both drivers and students crossing to their rides, creating a serious safety hazard

Attendance: Every Day Counts

The school is reminding families that missing just two days per month adds up to nearly 18 days per year — almost a full month of lost instruction. Chronic absenteeism (missing 10% or more of the school year) can have lasting effects on academic achievement and student wellbeing.

To report an absence at Falls High School, call 218-283-2571, press 1 for FHS, then press 1 for attendance and leave a detailed message.

Registration Forms Due

If you have not yet returned your completed registration form, please do so as soon as possible. Bring forms to Mrs. Rolando in the Guidance Office.

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Independent School District #361
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Independent School District #361

Independent School District No. 361 (ISD 361) is located in International Falls!

International Falls Independent School District 361: Fostering Academic Excellence and Community Engagement

Independent School District 361 (ISD 361) serves the educational needs of International Falls, Minnesota, and its surrounding communities. With a commitment to fostering academic success and community involvement, ISD 361 offers comprehensive educational programs from preschool through 12th grade.

District Overview

ISD 361 encompasses two primary educational institutions: Falls Elementary School and Falls High School. Falls Elementary caters to students from kindergarten through fifth grade, while Falls High School serves grades six through twelve. The district’s mission is to prepare every student to become a productive citizen by... Read more

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Falls Highschool
1515 11th Street International Falls, MN 56649
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