Principal's Corner Mr. Vandersteen It is my heartfelt pleasure to serve as the principal of Longfellow Humanities Magnet School.   One of my fondest memories as a parent was the day I enrolled my oldest daughter for kindergarten at Longfellow Humanities Magnet School. She ran ahead and entered the school; the door closed behind her. At that moment, as she disappeared from sight, I felt the tugs at my heartstrings that every parent must feel when they see their child take one more step away from home and one step closer toward their independence. For the next seven years she blossomed under the caring and skilled efforts of dedicated teachers and supportive staff. As a family we enjoyed the sense of community, the school events, and the wonderful learning opportunities. These fine qualities continue to be part of the Longfellow Humanities experience. Longfellow Humanities Magnet School welcomes all students from all over the city of St. Paul.  We are a community that embraces and celebrates the vibrance of diversity and the pursuit of academic excellence. The staff and students enjoy the joys of learning and the rewards of growing-up together. Every child's success matters. Prospective families are always welcomed to visit. I invite you to personally contact me with any questions or suggestions you would like to offer that you believe will make Longfellow Humanities Magnet a better school. I can be reached at Mark.Vandersteen@SPPS.org Mr. Vandersteen Mark.Vandersteen@SPPS.org Eighteen Years of Experience Mr. Vandersteen brings eighteen years of educational experience to Longfellow Humanities Magnet School: Five Years Educational Assistant Seven Years Special Education Teacher Six Years Administrative Intern/Assistant Principal What can you do for your children? Read and write together. Talk with each other and practice using language. Teach them that school is important. Teach them responsibility for what they say and do. Turn off the TV and computer and video games. Go for a walk together. Give them a regular bedtime ritual. Give them a balanced diet and plenty of exercise. Give them a place to do their homework quietly. Contact the school if you have concerns or questions. Contact the school early when there is a concern.