Open House Highlights & The Hill-Murray Experience

Dear Hill-Murray Community,

We welcomed many families and future PIONEERS to campus at our Winter Open House earlier this week. It was an incredible night showcasing the amazing Hill-Murray experience, made possible by our dedicated teachers, coaches, parents, and students. The good energy was palpable and I was so proud as four of our teachers took the stage to highlight engaging classroom experiences and give prospective families and students a taste of what to expect as Pioneers.

Perhaps my favorite moment came when Mr. Fisher shared his new class, Geometry Through Woodworking.
Yes, it is a math-credit-bearing course that incorporates hands-on woodworking to teach mathematical concepts. For example, students made cutting boards for Christmas presents this year as part of their lesson on angles, symmetry, and tessellations. 
It touched my heart when Mr. Fisher shared how students who would have normally struggled in math—and might have avoided seeking extra help—were coming in early, staying late, and using any spare time during the school day to work on their projects. For these students, math came to life in a whole new way.

 

Mrs. Deuth also took the stage at the open house. She teaches Honors Biology and CIS Anatomy and Physiology, a University of Minnesota course offered right here on our campus. She shared several real-world experiences that challenge our students as they hone their skills—not only in the content area of science, but also in their ability to think intuitively and creatively. One of the new courses being offered in the science department next year is Infectious Diseases and Public Health, designed to spark curiosity and critical thinking for those intrigued by public health issues and topics. This course will appeal to students who may not be traditional learners, as it will require different ways of thinking and problem-solving. Mrs. Deuth is also partnering with colleagues and community members to develop a Health and Medical Pathway curriculum block for students who are interested in pursuing careers in health and wellness fields. Hill-Murray has a strong tradition of inspiring our alums to pursue helping professions, truly finding their passion, their calling. Stay tuned for more information as the initiative comes to life this spring.

The Hill-Murray experience is unique in that it goes beyond the traditional classroom, reaching students in ways that inspire and motivate them to learn and grow. These innovative classes would not be possible without a school environment that is safe, warm, and welcoming. I know firsthand that students need us to wrap our arms around them each day, embracing them with love, safety and support. Hill-Murray has a strong track record of meeting each student where he or she is and providing the support needed so they can flourish and experience success. This is a hallmark of a Catholic school—of a school rooted in the loving teachings of Christ.

Please share with others the good news about what is happening at Hill-Murray! Hill-Murray transitioned to a rolling admissions process last year, and we are currently accepting applications and building our classes for the 2025-2026 school year. If you know a family whose child would benefit from a Hill-Murray education, please encourage them to apply today. We are fortunate to have many committed donors who are dedicated to ensuring that a Hill-Murray education is accessible to all children. Please know that tuition assistance is available for students who qualify, and we are committed to making things work for our families. Tuition and assistance information for the 2025 – 2026 school year is available here.

Sincerely,


Melissa Dan, Ed.S.
Hill-Murray School President