Summer Successes and Achievements at Cotter Schools

This summer has been a whirlwind of learning and fun at Cotter Schools! Over 250 students enrolled in our Summer Academy courses, attending over 700 sessions across 33 class offerings. These courses span a wide range of subjects, providing students with unique opportunities to explore new interests and deepen their knowledge. Classes included learning about seashells, veterinary science, fishing, a gentleman's class, board games, hot math, Lego masters, sports camps, and much more.

More than 400 students from grades K-12 participated in the 27 Sports, Games, and Activity Camps we offered. These camps kept students active and fostered teamwork and skill development in a fun and engaging environment.

Additionally, 25 elementary students dedicated more than 200 hours to individualized tutoring plans with licensed teachers on campus. The response to our Reading and Math summer learning opportunities was tremendous, highlighting our community’s commitment to academic excellence.

Moreover, 200 St. Luke and St. Nicholas students participated in the Summer Reading Program sponsored by the Winona Public Library, with 120 signing up through the St. Luke Library. Over 550 books were checked out to students this summer, encouraging a love of reading and continuous learning.

Pat Bowlin, the Principal of St. Luke Hall, expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the dedicated teachers who have invested their time and energy to offer these classes. "I greatly appreciate the teachers who have given their time and energy to give our students unique learning opportunities to engage both their mind and body. The joy I see on our students' faces makes it all worthwhile. They are learning, creating memories, and spending time with friends, it’s an unbeatable combination. To my knowledge, no school provides more high-quality and unique summer programming than Cotter. We are truly blessed," Bowlin said. This dedication has led to a vibrant atmosphere where students thrive, creating lasting memories and building friendships, truly showcasing the unparalleled summer programming at Cotter.

It was an exciting and busy time at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts this summer. With the help of a generous benefactor, around $850,000 in deferred maintenance was completed on the building. MCA hosted a two-week-long Summer Dance Intensive - welcoming 41 ballet students from around the country to the Cotter Campus. Programming for local families included two Winona Arts Camps, a production of Three Little Pigs, hosted by Storybook Theatre, a professional theatre company from the Twin Cities Metro Area, and private music lessons for 80 students. Over 250 students took part in activities at MCA this summer, with around 400 audience members attending performances.

The Cotter Marching Band has had an incredible season, earning numerous awards and recognitions! At the Alexandria State Marching Band Championships, they secured 1st place in Class A, won Best Colorguard (second place overall), earned Best Hornline, and received the Overall People’s Choice award for the second consecutive year. Throughout the season, their achievements include:

• Owatonna: 2nd Place in Class AA, Best Winds, Best Colorguard, and 2nd place overall in Music General Effect.
• Waconia: 2nd Place in Class A.
• Steamboat Days: Named Best of Parade and Most Entertaining.
• Milaca: 1st Place in Class A, Best Colorguard, and Best Hornline.
• Sauk Rapids: Earned an Excellent Rating.

This season has truly highlighted the talent and dedication of the Cotter Marching Band! Huge congratulations to Andy Meurer, his staff, and all the band and color guard members for their hard work and dedication! The junior high marching band, directed by Philip Smithley, also performed this summer, extending the invitation to Grade 6 students to march with Grades 7 and 8.

What an incredible season of growth and achievement for our students! As we look forward to the new school year, we are inspired by the enthusiasm and dedication our students have shown over the summer.