About Northome School
South Koochiching-Rainy River ISD #363 is one of the largest geographic school districts in the state of Minnesota with an attendance area of 1,532 square miles. The District, as it is now configured, was preceded decades ago by many small communities/townships, which had their own schools, most being the one-room school house. Currently, ISD #363 has only one remaining PreK-12 Grade school located in Northome, MN.
The Northome School offers unique opportunities to learn in nature. The experience begins with 80 acres of land that is laced with ski and wildlife trails. This beautiful northern acreage is enhanced by various geographic features such as the Northome School Forest and pond, which attract wildlife year around. We also utilize the Big Bog State Recreation Area, an old growth forest known as “The Lost 40”, Island Lake and many of the natural wonders of Koochiching County and surrounding areas.
The Northome School community believes in the process of working in collaboration versus isolation and embraces the concept of Professional Learning Communities, or PLC’s. The Northome School Community understands that every student is unique, as we strive to meet the needs of each student learner. We have scheduled specific times during each school day that we call our WIN (What I Need) time that places special emphasis on student learning and the differentiation of instruction. During this time, we use the Four (4) questions of a PLC to help guide our fundamental purpose. 1) What is it that we want our students to know and be able to do (Essential Skills)? 2) How do we know if the students have learned the skill (Assessment)? What do we do for students that have not learned the skill (Intervention)? What do we do for students that already know the skill (Enrichment)?
Meet our administrative team
Interim Superintendent / Principal
Dean
Secretary
Business Manager
Accounts Rec/Payable
School Nurse
Interim Superintendent / Principal
Mr. Darrin Strosahl
Interim Superintendent and Principal
darrin.strosahl@isd363.org
218-897-5275 ext. 153
It is a privilege to serve the families and communities that make up ISD #363. Whether you are in Northome or the surrounding areas of South Koochiching and Rainy River, our mission remains the same: to provide a top-tier education in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment.
My leadership philosophy is rooted in the question: “How can I help?” I am a believer in the value public education provides and am dedicated to ensuring our students and staff are supported.
I am a veteran of over 30 years as an educator and administrator who returned from retirement to provide experienced leadership to ISD #363 as Interim Superintendent. I understand the importance of a “small school feel” paired with big opportunities in a way that means we balance the big picture of district management with the joy of classrooms and students. My focus is on maintaining continuity of operations and stability during this time of leadership transition.
When I’m not at the school, my interests are spending time with family, grandchildren, and enjoying the outdoors.
Feel free to connect by stopping in for a visit, sending an email, or giving me a call.
Dean
Ms. Gail Netland
Dean
gnetland@northome.k12.mn.us
218-897-5275 ext. 155
It is an honor to serve the students and families of Northome School, South Koochich
ing-Rainy River ISD 363. My name is Gail Netland Froyd and I am the new Dean. As Dean, my focus is student management and ensuring that school runs smoothly. I work to ensure a
welcoming, supportive learning environment everyday for each student.
My background in education includes over fifteen years between teaching and administration. My philosophy is to make decisions keeping in mind the best interest of students and their learning. I am excited to return to Northome. At the beginn
ing of my career, I was the K-3 Literacy Coordinator here for a year through the Minnesota Reading Corps. That rewarding experience led me to return to school to pursue my teacher license in English and reading. I believe literacy has the power to change lives and break down barriers to realizing hopes and dreams.
I was born and raised in Minnesota, and Northern Minnesota has been my home for the past twenty years. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family camping, kayaking, gardening, and enjoying nature. I’m also an avid reader and enjoy playing board games.
Secretary
Mrs. Nikki Adegun
School Secretary
218-897-5275 ext. 100
nadegun@northome.k12.mn.us
I joined Northome School in 2022 as a paraprofessional and moved into the secretary role the following school year. My family and I moved to Northome from the Twin Cities in 2020. In the cities, I ran the Special Education Academic Support Center at Brooklyn Center High School. Prior to that, I was the Director of a non-profit travel program for adults with developmental disabilities, called Ventures Travel for 13 years.
Outside of school, I am very active in our local church and I greatly enjoy doing music ministry with my whole family. I also enjoys crafting, graphic design and spending time with my extended family.
“I believe that strong schools and strong communities go hand in hand. I’m glad to be a part of both here in Northome.”
Business Manager
Mrs. Alissa Carlson
Business Manager
218-897-5275 ext. 152
alissa.carlson@isd363.org
I joined South Koochiching-Rainy River ISD #363 in April of 2022 as the Business Manager. Prior to joining ISD #363, I served Bemidji State University for 15 years as a Campus Security Officer. I previously graduated from Bemidji State University with Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice and Business Administration with an emphasis in Management and completed Alexandria Technical and Community College’s Law Enforcement Skills program.
My interests include spending time with my family, gardening, outdoor activities, food preservation and fitness.
As a Northome School graduate, I am happy to be part of the Mustang team again.
Accounts Rec/Payable
Ms. Shawn Waldo
Accounts Receivable and Payable
218-897-5275 ext. 154
shawn.waldo@isd363.org
I have been employed by the District since 2012. I enjoy working in the Northome community, with the students and their families.
I work in the business office doing accounts payable/receivable, purchasing, meal programs, and a variety of other duties.
In my off time I enjoy time with my family.
School Nurse
I joined Northome School in January 2026, bringing over 12 years of clinical experience from Bigfork Valley Hospital. As a nurse since 2013 (transitioning from LPN to RN in 2022) and a former educational support professional, I am passionate about blending health and education. I am dedicated to ensuring our students are safe, healthy, and ready to learn.
I’m incredibly lucky to call northern Minnesota home, where I get to enjoy the serenity of nature every day. My life is full with my wonderful husband and two beautiful daughters. We love exploring the outdoors together, from camping and kayaking to fishing and golfing, we are always finding new ways to enjoy the beauty around us.
I am absolutely thrilled to join the Northome family! I can’t wait to connect with our amazing students, dedicated staff and wonderful community members. Go Mustangs!
