OUR SCHOOL

Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year!

Dear Students and Families,

Welcome back to the 2024 school year! We hope you had a restful and enjoyable summer break. As we embark on this new academic year, we are thrilled to introduce our new leadership team:

Principal: Mrs. Amanda Ohlgren
Assistant Principal: Mr. Kelly Fossum 

  Hello, everyone! I'm Amanda Ohlgren, and I'm thrilled to be here. I was raised on the farm in Central MN, where I learned the values of hard work and dedication. During my high school years, I was involved in sports, participating in three different sports that not only kept me active but also taught me valuable lessons about accountability and working as a team. After high school, I continued my academic and athletic journey at Concordia College, where I Majored in Education and played softball. Fast forward to my professional life, I found my calling in middle school.  As a middle school math teacher, I tried to get my kids excited about learning and help them find their way around numbers. Outside of the classroom, I was the varsity softball and volleyball coach at Champlin Park High School helping young athletes develop both their athletic and leadership skills. My journey in education led me to take on the role of a high school assistant principal at Elk River High School before making the move back to middle school at VandenBerge.

My spouse and I both work in the field of education. We have two children who are involved in sports and outdoor activities, as well as a beloved and energetic boxer dog named Tripp.  When we can, we like to spend time up north, whether it be fishing, hunting, or anything else.

I am excited to share my experiences and dedication to fostering the growth and development of our students. I look forward to collaborating with you to create a supportive environment where students can learn, thrive, celebrate their successes, build relationships, and navigate middle school life. I am deeply honored to be a member of and serve the VandenBerge community.

  My name is Kelly Fossum!  I’m excited to serve the students, families, and staff at VandenBerge Middle School as the new Assistant Principal.  

I received my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education with a specialty licensure in Mathematics from Bemidji State University.  I completed my masters degree in Teaching and Learning and my Administration Licensure from Saint Mary’s University.

I have worked for ISD 728 over the past 20 years.  I spent my first 19 years at Salk Middle School as a math teacher.  During my time there, I also served as the AVID Coordinator, AVID Teacher, and WEB Coordinator.  In 2023, I made the move to VandenBerge Middle School and taught math.  In addition to teaching, I served as ISD 728’s Targeted Services Summer School Coordinator over the last 11 years.   

My wife and I live in Elk River with our three kids.  Outside of school you can find me coaching sports, playing sports, or cheering my kids on at their events.  You can also see me around Elk River at community events or walking our 3 year old golden retriever named Harley.   

I look forward to teaming with you to provide a positive environment for students to learn, thrive, celebrate success, build relationships, and navigate life at the middle school level.  It is an honor and privilege to be part of the VandenBerge community. 

Please mark your calendars for the following important events:

• Tuesday, August 20th (8am-2pm)  - WEB Leader Training (8th Graders - Invite Only)

• Thursday, August 22nd (8am-12pm) - 6th Grade WEB Day 

  • Questions, please contact Mr. Wold (derek.wold@isd728.org)

• August 28th (4pm-7pm) - Open House Night & School Pictures

  • This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the VMS staff, visit classrooms, and learn about our plans for the year.

  • Students can capture their smiles for the yearbook and school IDs. Kemmetmueller Photography Flyer. 

• First Day of School: September 3, 2024

We encourage you to stay connected with us through our school website and newsletters for the latest updates and announcements. Should you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.

• VMS Website

• VMS School Supply List

Let's work together to make this a fantastic year of learning and achievement. Welcome back, and here's to a successful 2024 school year!