The Story Behind the Name: Karner Blue Education Center
In the early stages of development and planning, Principal Val Rae Boe, Ed.D., was identified to provide leadership for the new school. Her research of nature-based and place-based learning, and inspiration from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) protected land adjacent to the school property, led her to look for examples of vegetation and wildlife native to the area. In her search for a mascot that embodied the vision for the school, she discovered an endangered butterfly named Karner Blue, that currently only exists in two counties in Minnesota—Anoka County, where the school is located, and Winona County. District leadership agreed that using a butterfly, which symbolizes transformation, was a great metaphor to represent the spirit of the hopes and dreams for the students who will be attending the school.
But the story does not end there. Shortly after the name Karner Blue Education Center (KBEC) was chosen, the district learned that relatives of Naomi Lepore, KBEC assistant manager, were developing a children’s book featuring the Karner Blue butterfly. Lepore’s sister, Sara Jo Dickens, Ph.D., was writing the book based on her research as a biologist and their mother, Nancy Scheibe, was doing the illustrations. Serendipity struck at that moment, and everyone was delighted at how these seemingly unrelated things came together and added to the inspiration of the development for the school. This was truly one of those, “It was meant to be,” moments.
When you visit KBEC, take note how the facility relates to the surrounding beautiful landscapes, as well as how nature is integrated into the school environment.
Northeast Metro 916 is one of three intermediate school districts in Minnesota, serving approximately 4,000 students through shared programming that includes career and technical education, special education services, area learning centers and elementary education.