By Kortnie Hanson
I had a chance to talk for a bit with Mary Beth and find out about her job and hobbies and things.
1) Where were you born?
“East St. Louis, Illinois.” And why did you move here? “I went to Mankato State Grad School and ended up getting the job at Minnetonka.”
2) What are your hobbies?
“I like to exercise and do a lot of reading.”
3) What is your job description?
“Oh wow! I do a lot of things. I’m a Referral Coordinator, and/or help students who are struggling with school and trying to graduate. I also help students get into Mini-School and work study.”
4) What does Team do for the Mini-School Program?
The building Team approves students for Mini-School and tries to put programs in place which help students to be successful.
5) How long have you been working here?
“Eleven years and I like what I do a lot.”
6) What are the “up and down” sides of your job?
“Well I love working with students and every day is always different, and I like that aspect of my job. The down side would be trying to keep up with all the kids I need to see.”
7) Are you involved in any other activities in the school?
“Yes I coach softball. I’m also a Peer Helper advisor and train students to be Peer Helpers.”
8) What age group do you most work with?
“Mostly 10-12 and sometimes 9th graders.”
9) Why are 9th graders not allowed into “Mini-School”?
“The building team feels that 9th graders should try out Mainstream and other programs first before going to Mini. Also many 9th graders can’t get jobs to qualify for the work program because of their age. So they would need to take mainstream classes in the afternoon after Mini-School.”
In conclusion: Ms. Wiig is a very nice person and I’m glad I got the chance to find out more about her.