By Molly Raske | Nisswa Elementary School principal

Nisswa Elementary School is thrilled to announce the return of fifth grade next school year, bringing a full elementary experience back to the community and celebrating the powerful partnerships that make this school a true standout in central Minnesota.

Part of Brainerd Public Schools, Nisswa Elementary serves nearly 330 students in preschool through fifth grade. With nearly 50 outstanding educators and support staff, the school provides a nurturing, rigorous, and joyful environment where students are known, challenged, and supported.

“This is a place where kids thrive because of the people around them,” said Principal Molly Raske. “Our staff is beyond exceptional. They bring not just expertise, but heart — and our students benefit every single day.”

Fifth grade returns to its roots

After a 20-year pause, Nisswa Elementary will once again include fifth grade, providing continuity and connection during a formative year. For many families, this is also a homecoming — parents who were once Nisswa fifth graders themselves are now watching their own children step into that legacy.

‘Only in Nisswa’ Experiences: Learning that lives beyond the classroom

Throughout the year, students engage in experiences that reflect the unique character of the town and its people.

The Halloween Parade, coordinated with the Nisswa Chamber of Commerce, brings students downtown in costume to be cheered on by local businesses and families. Chamber Director Kalie Jay ensures that Nisswa’s youngest citizens are always part of the town’s cherished traditions.

The Nisswa Fire Department goes beyond safety education — spraying hoses during Fire Safety Week, playing Pin Guard with upper grades, and even chauffeuring a local legend, Lois Gagne, to school on her birthday. Their active, ongoing presence adds fun and safety to every school year.

The Nisswa Police Department is a vital partner in supporting student safety and well-being. From leading Safety Town programs to maintaining a visible and approachable presence in and around the school, the police work closely with staff to build trust, foster relationships, and create a strong culture of care.

The Nisswa American Legion and Auxiliary teach students about service and patriotism through Veterans Day assemblies, the Memorial Day Essay Contest, and a Poppy Coloring Contest that ties art to understanding.

A real-life test of readiness — and the staff who shined

On May 14, 2025, a refrigerant line leak triggered the school’s fire suppression system and building alarms. There was no fire or danger, but the incident required a full evacuation, and the Nisswa community rose to the moment.

Students calmly evacuated to Nisswa City Hall, guided by staff who executed the emergency plan with steady leadership and care. The Nisswa Fire and Police Departments, City Hall staff, and Mayor Jennifer Carnahan responded immediately. District leaders, including Superintendent Peter Grant, were in constant communication with the school team and arrived quickly to support staff and ensure all protocols were followed.

“Our staff carried out the response with focus, precision, and compassion,” Raske said. “They kept students safe, communicated with families, and supported one another every step of the way. I’ve never been more proud to work alongside them.”

The fire department conducted thorough testing and confirmed the air was safe. Students remained calm, cared for, and reassured — a testament to the strength of the emergency plan and the trusted adults who implemented it.

A Town That Wraps Around Its Kids

The Nisswa Elementary PTO fuels many of the joyful and enriching moments students remember most — organizing field trips, Warrior Way celebrations, book fairs, mini-grants, and more. Local businesses open their doors to help students learn about their community and how they belong in it.

The Nisswa Way

“We don’t just go to school here — we grow up here,” Raske said. “Our teachers, staff, families, and town show up for our kids every single day. And now, with fifth grade back, we get to continue building something truly special.”

Only in Nisswa? Absolutely. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.