Willmar Wisdom: Beyond the Classroom

In this episode of Willmar Wisdom: Beyond the Classroom, we highlight the power of student leadership and service in action. Hear from Willmar High School Key Club members as they share how they’re making a difference both locally and beyond.From organizing a large-scale food packing event to supporting school and community initiatives, these students are learning what it means to lead with purpose. Their work goes beyond volunteering—it’s about building character, creating connections, and becoming engaged, global citizens.Tune in to hear how Key Club is bringing people together and why service matters now more than ever.

In this special episode of Willmar Wisdom: Beyond the Classroom, we step away from the district office and into the world of our youngest learners. Join us as five first graders from Kennedy Elementary take the lead in a guided read-along of Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell.Through their honest, funny, and thoughtful perspectives, these students explore themes of confidence, embracing what makes us unique, and standing tall in the face of challenges. It’s a heartwarming reminder that even the smallest voices can share the biggest lessons.

In this episode, Dr. Adams sits down with longtime educator and boys swimming & diving coach Carl Shuldes as he reflects on nearly four decades at Willmar Public Schools. From starting in the late 1980s to coaching swimming and track for decades, Carl shares what it meant to spend his entire career in one district and build a program rooted in consistency and commitment.He talks about the culture of swimming — the early mornings, the demanding practices, and the pride that comes from pushing beyond what you think you can do. As he retires from coaching, this episode celebrates a legacy built not just on competition, but on helping student-athletes grow in confidence, resilience, and identity.

In this episode, Superintendent, Dr. Bill Adams talks with Rochelle Peterson, a Willmar Public Schools parent who has open enrolled her three children into the district. Rochelle shares what led her family to explore open enrollment and why Willmar Public Schools felt like the right fit for each of her kids.She reflects on the importance of feeling supported, known, and confident in where your children are learning, and offers helpful insight for families considering open enrollment.

In this episode, Dr. Adams sits down with four members of the Hulstein family, all of whom work within the Willmar Public School District. The conversation explores what it’s like to serve students and families not only as educators, but as a family rooted in the same community. From funny moments of being mistaken as related with staff everywhere they go, to thoughtful reflections on education, connection, and showing up for the work, this episode offers a meaningful and lighthearted look at life inside our schools.

In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at middle school and high school robotics, a program that blends creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and serious fun. Students explain how each year’s challenge pushes them to try new roles, strategize, and build something together, whether they’re coding, designing, driving, or engineering the robot.We also talk about how robotics builds confidence and resilience by encouraging students to learn from mistakes and discover strengths they didn’t know they had. And of course, there’s no shortage of laughter, inside jokes, and favorite school lunch debates along the way.This episode celebrates student voice, hands-on learning, and the community formed when young people are given the space to create and compete.

In this episode of Willmar Wisdom, Superintendent Dr. Bill Adams chats with Alex Wolter, Director of Community Education, about how community education builds connection across Willmar. Alex shares his journey into the role, the importance of creating programs that bring people together, and how events like the International Heritage Festival celebrate the diversity that makes Willmar special. It’s a conversation about collaboration, belonging, and the power of community.

Put on your safety goggles and join Dr. Adams for a roundtable discussion with Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers Danielle Mikkelson and Lance Brune. Discover the many opportunities available to students - from CAD to plasma cutting to carpentry - and  learn how Willmar’s CTE programs prepare them for life after high school.

Dr. Bill Adams sits down with Willmar High School’s award-winning Speech team to discuss how public speaking went from public fear number one to a favorite extracurricular activity. Get the inside scoop on how you go from classroom presentations to speaking in front of thousands and discover the dedication these students have to their craft.

Dr. Bill Adams sits down with Willmar High's Student Council members Mady Johnson (President), Aly Johnson (Vice-President), and Solenne Ruff (Secretary) to learn about the ins and outs of student government. Get an inside look at how Student Council impacts the WHS student body, upcoming events they're planning, and why it's important to get involved.

Dr. Adams is joined by Willmar Special Education experts Melissa Wilson, Student Services Director; Barb Eilers, Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) Teacher; and Special Education Coaches Laura Odland and Lyndset Bice-Paffrath, to discuss the wide variety of programs and services available to students with special needs. Learn how our special education staff partner with families to provide exceptional care and education for their students.

Dr. Adams sits down with student-actors Lauren Mueske (Tessie), Courtney Schiesser (Annie), and Eileen Bosch (Boylan Sister), as well as Director, Travis Michelson for a behind-the-scenes look into the fall musical, Annie. Tickets: https://bit.ly/WHS-Annie Showtimes: Thu. Nov 7, Fri. Nov 8, Sat. Nov 9 | 7:00 pmSun. Nov 10 | 1:00 pm

Dr. Adams, joined by special guests Katelyn Skudlarek, District Literacy Lead and Kaylee Jahraus, Kindergarten Teacher at Roosevelt Elementary share an overview of the READ Act and an update about literacy in Willmar Public Schools.

Lived Experiences of Willmar Middle School 8th Graders. Join Dr. Adams as he learns “How To Middle School” with Willmar Middle School students Maya and Nikolai. Get the inside scoop on how to prepare for Middle School, the challenges and rewards of going outside your comfort zone, and the best ways to eat pizza!

Dr. Adams is joined by 2024 grads Tyler Evans, Rebecca Dawson and Richie Becker to discuss their key takeaways and favorite memories from their time in Willmar Public Schools before they enter their next chapter. Plus, they share advice for current Willmar students!

Welcome to Willmar Wisdom, Beyond the Classroom. Join Dr. Bill Adams, Superintendent of Willmar Public Schools as we explore the stories, challenges, and successes that shape our district.