Anthony Shealy

What is your role at BlueSky? 

I am a teacher. I teach 7 and 8th grade social studies as well as have special education responsibilities.

What is your Education background?

I graduated from Winona Senior High School and then earned a Bachelor's degree in Social Studies/Education from Winona State University. I also have a Master's degree for Specific Learning Disabilities from the University of St. Thomas.

What is your favorite food?

I am a big fan of Old Chicago and Buffalo Wild Wings (mango habanero wings)

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy reading, golfing, and fishing.

Do you have any fun or interesting tidbits?

I completed Airborne School way back in the early 90's. That was fun.

BlueSky Students Earn Computers! 

Four BlueSky Online students recently earned a free computer through the Minnesota Computers for Schools Sponsor a Student program. 

Minnesota Computers for Schools (MCFS) operates under the principle that all students deserve equal access to the technology necessary to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence required for success in school, the community and the workforce.

The Sponsor a Student program allows students to submit an essay describing their need for a personal computer. The selected essays will be displayed at our annual event, along with a picture, for guests to read. Throughout the event, guests are able to purchase a computer for a student of their choice.

Through the process, 4 BlueSky students' essays were selected and computers were purchased for them! 

Here is one of the winners and her thoughts on the process: 

"The time I spent typing up my report for Computers for Schools has been a wonderful experience. Instead of dwelling in the past I took my time remembering how much I enjoy being at BlueSky. I love the teachers and the students. There is no Bullying and disrespect is not tolerated. I am enjoying my time at BlueSky and I will have great memories when I graduate. Thank you Computers for Schools for giving me an opportunity to continue my education as an online student for High School but also in the future for my college education."

-Hailey Sherwood, grade 10

Julie Johnson

Role at BlueSky: 

Teach Earth Science and Integrated Science
Qcomp coach

School Board secretary

Educational Background:

B.S. Earth Science Secondary Education, St. Cloud State University
B.S. General Science, St. Cloud State University
MAEd. Natural Science and Environmental Education, Hamline University
Minnesota Teaching Licenses: 5-9 Science, 7-12 Earth and Space Science

What is your favorite part of teaching online?

I like being in the same surroundings that the students are in. In my live sessions, I sometimes do demonstrations from my kitchen using supplies that the students may have in their homes so they can re-create the demonstration if they would like. I also feel that their are less distractions and I can focus on grading and supporting students instead of helping with hallway duty.

What is your favorite food?

Benihana

Do you have any pets?

1 dog: Scooter
2 cats: Simba and Minnie

What are your hobbies?

Being at the lake
Camping
Traveling
gardening

Any fun or interesting tidbits?

I really like rocks! In the summer, you will often find me walking fields looking for agates. I love visiting different locations and looking at the geology of the area. My favorite memory of our trip to the Boundary Waters was laying on rock outcrops at night and watching the meteor shower.

The triumphant return of TEACHER TUESDAYS!!! 

Check back in each Tuesday. I will be highlighting teachers from each department at BlueSky Online. This is a fun way to learn more about them! 

This week: Leah Sickmann! 

What is Leah's role at BlueSky Online? 

Teaching Biology, Forensic Science, and serving on the Curriculum Committee. 

Leah's hometown and Education background: 

New London, Wisconsin - High School

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities for a BA in Animal Science!

Mankato for a Masters

Why does Leah like working from home? 

Leah enjoys working from her Cloquet, MN home because she can play with her two dogs, Crosby and Jack, whenever she wants! 

What are some of  Leah's hobbies? 

Leah enjoys gardening, camping and running. 

What does Leah like the most about teaching at BlueSky? 

"Working with our great students from all over the state of Minnesota.   I also like to think of new and innovative ways to teach science in an online format."

Leah enjoys working students in Live Sessions and communicating through text and email. She also likes working One-on-one with students! So reach out to her for help any time!