Kennedy's Korner

Little Grunt and the Big Egg

2012-02-29T14:02:00.002-06:00


Little Grunt is astonished at the size of the big egg.

It is hard to imagine anything that is more fun than creative drama at the second grade level. Mrs. Wakeman's class had a wonderful time practicing and performing Little Grunt and the Big Egg on a recent February day. They all did a terrific job! Each child attempted to speak loud and clear and add just the right expression to show their character. The story had some scary parts, but fortunately, it had a happy ending. It was great to have so many parents attend their performances.

These students made their own scenery.


The students practiced their lines before the big performance.

The dinosaur got bigger and bigger and saved the children from the black smoke of the volcano.

An Especially Happy Day at NHE

2012-02-28T17:50:00.002-06:00


This was the scene as Colin and Miranda laid eyes on their dad, Michael Johanns.

Every day is a happy day at NHE. But Monday, February 27th proved to be an especially happy day. While Colin and Miranda Johanns were visiting with Mrs. Kriener, the school counselor, someone special to these two children sneaked into the school building. So, at the end of their visit with the counselor, Colin and Miranda thought they were on their way to visit the Book Fair.

As they entered Colin's classroom to join their peers for their journey to the hallway where the books were on display, Colin and Miranda stepped into a surprise and into the arms of their dad, Michael Johanns. Mr. Johanns had just arrived home from Afghanistan where he had spent the last five months.

Those of us standing by found out that nothing feels better to a dad than a bear hug from his children.
Neither Colin or Miranda wanted to let go.

I met both Miranda and Colin the next day at school. Colin told me with big eyes and a loud voice, "My Dad is home from Afghanistan." Miranda chimed in, "We went out for ice cream with my Dad last night. He is home from Afghanistan." Their words told me that they were oblivious to those of us who witnessed the joyful reunion with their father that had occurred less than 24 hours before.

Neither Colin nor Miranda wanted to let go.

Bucket Fillers of the Week on February 24th

2012-02-26T15:25:00.001-06:00


K - 4 Bucket Fillers of the Week on February 24th

Connor Nehl is a bucket filler t-shirt winner on February 24th. Connor is a second grader in the classroom of Mrs. Nuss. He is a great kid with a ready smile and always a bucket filler.

Congratulations, Connor! We are proud of you!

Ayden Ries is a winner, also. He looks great in that neon t-shirt as it just seems to light up his face. Ayden is a first grader in the classroom of Jamie Eggerichs. He always has hugs for me and is just a super first grader.

Congratulations, Ayden! It was definitely your turn to win.

Hunter Gilland came in with a big smile to pick up his t-shirt. He is a third grader in the classroom of Mrs. Hovey.

Hunter filled Mrs. Hovey's bucket and his own by doing a super job on a math test. Way to go, Hunter.

That shirt lights up your face.

Thanks to all of our bucket fillers who make New Hampton Elementary a great place to be.

Fax Gilbert Presents Health and Happiness

2012-02-23T15:19:00.001-06:00

We love to laugh - loud and clear and strong! The staff and students of NHE enjoyed Fax Gilbert's entertaining presentation on Thursday, February 23rd. We all laughed so hard we decided it was a healthy presentation! Mr. Gilbert used a Red Cap to illustrate the health and happiness issues of rest, exercise, diet, character, attitude and pride. He called on several students to come up on stage and act out his skits through mime, magic, and just plain fun. It was entertaining, and we all went away with some healthy and happy information.

Two of NHE's heroes helped him do some exercises.

Fax is performing one of his skits.

Professional Development for NHE Teachers

2012-02-22T16:17:00.001-06:00

Thursday Morning Professional Development

Second Grade Collaborative Learning Team

The mission of the New Hampton Community School District is to empower all students to succeed in a changing world.

NHE educators need to empower themselves with training in order to fulfill the intent of our mission statement. Therefore, teachers are continually meeting and learning throughout the school year.

August Inservice Days: At the beginning of each school year, teachers attend three days of inservice, which includes some training opportunities as well as time for meetings and for planning for the school year. The district usually plans about five - ten hours of professional training in those three days.

Education is changing rapidly and Late Starts: Parents know that about five times during the school year, there is a scheduled late start when the students are asked to come two hours late to school so teachers can engage in professional training activities.

Collaborative Learning Teams: NHE teachers meet one hour a month to focus on an instructional topic in Collaborative Learning Teams (CLT’s). In addition, each CLT meets once a week for planning and to talk about management issues. Pictured are the second grade CLT: Dixie Wakeman, Sara Baltes, Carolyn Nuss, Heather Maakestad, and Jess Geerts.

Thursday Morning Sessions: When possible, thirty minutes sessions are held on Thursday mornings at 7:30. During this month of February, Suzanne Duneman has met on three different Thursdays to train teachers to use the online resources available to them through Keystone AEA.

An Additional Day: There is usually a day- long professional development session planned for each year. This year it was planned for February, but was used as a snow make-up day. So that day has now been tacked on to the end of the year.

In addition, teachers take care of their own professional needs through course work and workshop attendance.

Education is changing rapidly. NHE teachers make a valiant attempt to keep up through ongoing professional training that is both offered by the district and pursued as individuals.

February 17th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2012-02-19T14:05:00.001-06:00

These three are all smiles as they don their neon green t-shirts and receive accolades for being the bucket fillers of the week.

Erik Heeren is a third grader in Mrs. Hovey's class. He is a hard worker and acts responsibly in his classroom.

Talyn Bohaty is a kindergarten student in Mrs. Throndson's classroom. He shares his smiles to fill buckets and works as hard as he can with his peers.

Sydney Wegner is a fourth grader in Mr. Pagel's classroom. She is a helper and she does it cheerfully. Mr. Pagel and her friends can always count on her to fill their buckets.

Thank you to the three of you for making New Hampton Elementary a great place to be.

These were the classsroom bucket fillers on February 17th!

Let's Get Moving!

2012-02-19T13:59:00.001-06:00

AmeriCorps worker, Melanie Stewart of the Food and Fitness Initiative of Northeast Iowa, is visiting all of the classrooms again during the month of February. Ms. Stewart is teaching the students responsible behavior about their own wellness. During the month of January, she concentrated on teaching nutrition lessons. In February, she is also getting kids up out of their desks to be active. Here she is pictured working wiht a group of New Hampton first graders, showing them some simple moves to exercise their bodies right in their classrooms.

Teaching them to be responsible about taking care of their bodies is another way to focus on the pillar of responsibility during the month of February.

It isn't difficult at all to get them moving!

Enjoying a Working Lunch

2012-02-14T13:27:00.002-06:00

Mrs. Kriener (pictured) and Mr. Pagel monitor the activities of the Conflict Managers.

Mrs. Nancy Kriener, school counselor, and Mr. Dennis Pagel, fourth grade teacher, monitor the training and the ongoing activities of the conflict managers at New Hampton Elementary. Third and fourth graders make up the conflict manager team each year.

The conflict managers are specifically trained to help students who get into conflicts on the playground talk through their differences and solve their issues in a positive way. They meet over lunch occasionally to talk about how things are going and choose new partners so they have a variety of partners throughout their reign as conflict managers. They work in pairs.

Students write down their choice of partners for future recesses.

Students eat while recording the names of preferred partners.

Mom and Dad for Lunch

2012-02-14T12:57:00.000-06:00

"Valentine's Day is really special when I can share lunch with Mom and Dad."

Happy hour for me everyday is my time in the cafeteria with all of my students. I love to pump the catsup, mustard, and salad dressing so that I can touch base with each child as they come through.

On Valentine's Day, The cooks served a delightful pasta/hamburger dish, a lettuce salad, some pineapple, and a colorful piece of cake with lots of frosting. And, of course, breadsticks are always a welcome sight on our plastic, divided plates. What added to the choice menu was our guests for the day. We had some moms and dads come in and join us for lunch. Actually, almost everyday we have a parent or two in the lunchroom. It is a touch of home for all of us and we love it!

"It is fun to share the cafeteria with my Dad."

"Mom is here for the whole day.....even lunch!"

Bucket Fillers of the Week on February 10th

2012-02-10T16:23:00.000-06:00

Bucket Fillers at New Hampton Elementary

Taryn Smith has her name in the bucket in Mrs. Rowan's kindergarten classroom all of the time. Her teacher says she is truly a bucket filler. She added that she is especially helpful to everyone during lunchtime.

It is so much fun to reward students like Taryn with the bucket filler t-shirt and certificate. Taryn is usually smiling and she is a very hard worker.

Congratulations, Taryn. Keep up the good work!

Carter Rhoads told me a litany of reasons why he was a bucket filler when he came down for his t-shirt. Of course, he was very excited. Carter told me he listens closely in his classroom and he is a very hard worker. He doesn't bother his friends while they are working. Those are good reasons to have your name in the classroom bucket, Carter.

Keep listening and helping your friends, Carter.

Bryce Maloy came down smiling for his t-shirt, also. Bryce is a fourth grader in the classroom of Mrs. Quirk. He is a good listener and a good worker and is also helpful to others.

Congratulations, Bryce. You and your sister, Grace, are not the proud owners of neon green, bucket filler t-shirts.

All of these boys and girls make New Hampton Elementary a great place to be!

Think First for Kids!

2012-02-10T13:10:00.002-06:00


Students watched a video featuring Street Smart, the safety hero.

On Friday, February 10th, students welcomed Jesse Gildea to our auditorium. Jesse shared an animated video with K - 4 students that reviewed many of the safety benchmarks in the district's Wellness Curriculum. Those benchmarks included vehicle, bicycle, bus, pedestrian, and playground safety. Jesse gave students a brief overview of the brain and the spinal cord followed by a fun story with a powerful message. He used a canteloupe and called it Melanie. He told a story about Melanie that weaved in advice on how to wear a bicycle helmet properly, when to get a new helmet, and how a helmet can save a head from severe injury.

The most powerful part of his presentation was his own testimony regarding the accident that left him paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair for life. Mr. Gildea has gone on with his life with a 'can do' attitude and is now engaged in the quality work of delivering injury prevention messages to kids and teenagers. He is also playing wheelchair basketball and pursuing some of the same kinds of hobbies he did before his injury. Students were impressed at how positive he is about his life and how truly independent he has become. His message about injury prevention was heightened just because he delivered it using his own testimony.

Mr. Gildea watched the video with the students.


Jesse is pointing to a student who has a question for him.

That's Progress

2012-02-09T08:57:00.002-06:00

I am beginning to see a change in the eating habits of my students. Over the last few years, we have lessened the number of times a dessert is offered to students. It used to be daily, and now a sweet or treat is offered about once a week. And, yes, they still try to eat it first!

We have switched to serving only whole wheat bread with our sandwiches. We are offering more fresh fruits and vegetables. We are encouraging kids to take just a spoonful to taste a new food rather than just declining. On Wednesday of this week, several of our kindergarten students allowed just a spoonful of the Chicken Alfredo to be put on their plates, tasted it, and then asked if they could go back for more. One little guy said with gusto, “This is really good. I am going back for more.”

Monday’s menu was Mandarin chicken, brown rice, cooked carrots, pineapple and sandwiches. I noticed more students than ever eating the rice. Students were enticed by the smell of the Mandarin chicken so that added to its appeal.

One of my little friends, I will call him Joey, wouldn’t eat a butter or peanut butter sandwich last year no matter how hungry he was just because of the whole wheat bread. On Monday of this week, Joey came up to me and said, “Mrs. Kennedy, I am still hungry. Can I have another sandwich? That’s progress.

We still have the students who go through the line and refuse to try anything new and just eat their favorites. We do encourage them! I like to stand at the silverware table and see what they have on their plates and offer some encouragement, if need be.

I think it helps that the nutrition lessons in our classrooms give them a cognitive understanding of nutritional foods and their value as well as a strong connection to the choices they make in the cafeteria.

We will keep trying!

Third Grade Science Fair Featuring Simple Machines

2012-02-05T13:59:00.005-06:00

What is more fun than demonstrating your own simple machine creation for your peers and parents? After the third graders of NHE studied a unit on simple machines, they were each asked to produce a simple machine project that might be used in the real world and present it at a science fair as the culminating activity.

The following pictures were taken at the Science Fair on Friday, February 3rd. The smiling, successful faces of these students make it hard to focus on their simple machine creations.

Students demonstrated their simple machines for their peers and parents.

February 3rd Bucket Fillers of the Week

2012-02-03T15:31:00.001-06:00


Smile, bucket fillers! You are winners!

Jamison Steege is a bucket filler in his kindergarten classroom. He is in the classroom of Mrs. Nosbisch. Jamison tries hard to be a helper in his classroom. He especially likes doing things for his teacher.

That's a big smile, Jamison. Thanks for being a bucket filler at NHE.

Joslyn Plagman was in the cafeteria when her name was called to come down and get her t-shirt. We had to look for her because she didn't hear her name over the intercom. When we finally found her, she was very happy! She looks so cool in her neon green t-shirt.

Congratulations, Joslyn! We had fun surprising you!

Kacey Olson is a fourth grader in the classroom of Mrs. Quirk. She always has a smile for everyone. Kacey got her name in the bucket for being a big helper for her teacher. She is a kind person and is always doing nice things for others.

Kacey, you make NHE a great place to be!

Reading Rocks Again This Year

2012-01-31T08:25:00.000-06:00

Students were most attentive during the Reading Rocks Kickoff.

On Monday, January 30th, K - 4 students were escorted to the auditorium by Mr. Pagel's Kids-in-Charge students for the Reading Rocks Kickoff! Students started the assembly singing three verses of the school song, New Hampton Elementary is the Place to Be. They put a little twist on one verse to include, Reading Rocks is starting today, we're happy as can be.

The K - 4 students and Mrs. Cristy Smith welcomed Cory McDonald, high school instructor, and members of the high school Honor Society. Two members of the Honor Society will join each class, do their own reading and submit their minutes to that classroom in order to boost the count.

The rocks from the classroom winners of last year were delivered to the stage so that sudents would be motivated to get reading in order to win one of the rocks for their classrooms. Everyone had a good time and left the auditorium with the resolve to get reading! The Reading Rocks Celebration will be February 29th at 2;30.

Mrs. Nuss delivered her rock from last year to the stage.

Mrs. Smith looks over the Reading Rocks that will be the prizes again this year.

Bucket Fillers of the Week on January 27th

2012-01-29T13:50:00.001-06:00

This is Kenny Zweibohmer. He is a kindergarten student in Mrs.
Throndson's classroom. Kenny is a great helper and a good friend to his peers. He practices concept #1 of the bucket filling program by trying to have positive interactions with his peers.

Congratulations, Kenny! We are so proud of you.

Austin Perry is a second grader in Mrs. Wakeman's classroom. He is proud to be wearing the bucket filling t-shirt and it does look good on him. Austin is another one of the reasons why we all enjoy being here. He is kind and helpful and practices bucket filling everyday.

We are proud of you, Austin. Thank you for your kind ways.

Caiden Eichenberger is a charming presence in the classroom and the hallways of NHE. He is often smiling and works hard to remember to be a bucket filler. Caiden looks great in his neon green t-shirt and big smile.

Keep up the good work, Caiden!


What a fine looking group of bucket fillers!

Thank you for making NHE a great place to be - everyday!

Kindergarten's 100th Day Celebration

2012-01-24T16:52:00.001-06:00

The kindergarten students of NHE gathered together for a story read by Mrs. Kennedy..

On Tuesday, January 24th, after a few snowdays and a weekend occurred, the kindergarten students had all brought their 100 collections in for display and were ready to celebrate 100 days in kindergarten. After Mrs. Kennedy read them a story, they brainstormed what they had done for 100 days. They came up with: 100 Days of Bucket Filling! 100 Days of Jolly Phonics! 100 Days of Recess! 100 Days of Fun! 100 Days of Friends! 100 Days of Math! 100 Days of Pencils! 100 Days of Paper! 100 Days of Lunch in the Cafeteria!

You can tell by the pictures below that the principal, teachers, students, and parents all had a great celebration. Thanks to the mothers and fathers who came to school to help out!

Mrs. Kennedy reads a story to the group.

Mrs. Kennedy loved the apron we made for her.


A parent helps students make 100 Day glasses.

It was great fun having both mothers and fathers there to help.

Do you like my glasses?

The glasses were a hit!

This helper is pretty handy with the stapler.

January 24th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2012-01-24T16:34:00.002-06:00


These children make NHE a great place to be everyday.

On January 24th, the bucket fillers from the K - 4 classrooms happily posed for a picture in the elementary office. The Bucket Filling Program is a very important program at NHE. It is one of the reasons why we love to be here with all of our friends everyday.

Hannah Meier is a fourth grader in the classroom of Mr. Pagel. She is definitely a bucket filler with a big smile on her face most of the time.
Hannah got her name in the bucket for helping her friend move her desk back. Way to go, Hannah!

Samantha Onken is a second grader in the classroom of Mrs. Nuss. She loves to help people and is often caught doing so. Mrs. Kennedy asked her to escort a parent to a kindergarten classroom and she was happy to do so. She is always bucket filling and sharing her smile, also.

Congratulations, Samantha! You look good in this t-shirt.

Chase Ensign was so proud of being called down to the office for his t-shirt when his name was drawn. He saw his Grandmother through the office window and proudly modeled the shirt for her and waved his certificate.

Chase said he was a great classroom helper and a good kid. We know he is and we are so proud of him! Keep up the good work, Chase!

Late Start Activities

2012-01-19T13:24:00.002-06:00


The Third Grade CLT is discussing the Literacy Curriculum of the Iowa Core.											.

On Wednesday, January 18th, teachers in the New Hampton Community School District, collaborated with the Literacy portion of the of the Iowa Core Curriculum. The Literacy teachers of the district went on an Iowa Core website and aligned what they are currently teaching with the Literacy Standards and benchmarks of the Iowa Core. After the alignment process, they printed the results and met in Collaborative Learning Teams (CLT's) to talk about them and make future plans for instruction.

The First Grade CLT meets to discuss Literacy Standards and Benchmarks.

Professional development time is precious to the educators of this district. This year, the NHE educators are learning more about the mandates outlined in the Iowa Core Curriculum, the new Literacy series, and the use of the new technology that has been purchased for their classrooms. Besides the late starts and other professional development times on this year's calendar, teachers are meeting in Collaborative Learning Teams (CLT's) one hour a month to continue their training.

Teachers need training to efficiently use the technology that has been placed in their classrooms.

January 13th Bucket Filler of the Week

2012-01-13T15:44:00.000-06:00


These are the smiling faces of the classroom bucket fillers of the week!

Tyler Speicher always has a big smile on his face. And this week, we found out he is also quite generous. He brought his gently used Character Counts t-shirts to school so that someone else might get some wear out of them. For that reason, he got his name in Mrs. Hovey's classroom bucket. Lucky for him, his name was drawn in the office at 3:00 in the afternoon.

Tyler quickly came down for his t-shirt and certificate. Congratulations to you, Tyler

Carter Broughton is a kindergarten student in Mrs. Throndson's room. He is a big help to his teacher, especially when it is time to put up the chairs at the end of the day. The janitors appreciate the chairs being put up because it makes their job of cleaning the floors in each classroom much easier. He looks good in his new t-shirt.

Congratulations, Carter! You and Tyler are two of the reasons NHE is a great place to be!

The Events of a January Friday at NHE

2012-01-13T14:54:00.003-06:00

It is always fun to go in and out of classrooms on a Friday morning. The following pictures show a few of the things I was able to capture with my camera on a recent Friday morning stroll through the hallways of NHE.

Students in Ms. Snyder's first grade classroom participated in a Reader's Theatre during this past week. They practiced reading fluently as partners and then read their scripts to their peers. Their peers were asked to assess their performance by writing one thing each duo did well.

The students really enjoyed this opportunity to improve their fluency.

Mrs. Rowan's classroom was working on Jolly Phonics activities when I walked in. The students were so excited about this activity, they didn't hear me walk into their rooms. Mrs. Rowan had all eyes on the Promethean Board while she slowly unveiled a word. As the students began to see letter parts, they guessed what that word would be. They did a terrific job of being word detectives.

Mrs. Quirk, fourth grade science teacher, was teaching about invertebrate groups when I walked into her classroom. She was showing a video clip on insects on her Promethean Board. Students watched intently as a big spider moved across the screen in front of them.

This teacher and students have grown very fond of having that board to project images and video clips at a moment notice when the learning time is right!

The kindergarten students in the classrooms of Mrs. Nosbisch and Mrs. Ries were enjoying going to the General Store to make purchases. The students are learning the value of coins and this was a great opportunity for them to spend their money.

You can tell by the picture that the General Store is the place to shop on a snowy Friday morning when you are a kindergartener.

Fourth grade students in Mr. Pagel's room were getting some guidance from him on how to play a new number card game. The game required them to use what they know about their addition facts to make decisions about what cards to lay down.

I heard Mr. Pagel reminding some of his students that they could play the game more successfully if they knew their addition facts, and if they could come up with those answers quickly.

A Special Guest to Teach Nutrition

2012-01-12T09:19:00.000-06:00


First graders are involved in a Choose My Plate Activity with Melanie Stewart.

During the month of January, each classroom of New Hampton Elementary is having a guest teacher. Melanie Stewart, an Americorps Worker for the Food and Fitness Initiative of northeast Iowa has designed nutrition lessons to teach each grade level.

In this classroom, Ms. Stewart led the students through a discussion of the food groups on her Choose My Plate poster and their corresponding handout. After these first grade students had the opportunity to review what they knew about each food group and color the plate appropriately, they engaged in an activity. One child is about to draw a card with a specific food pictured on it. If he or she could name the food group to which the food belongs, there was an activity like skipping in place or hopping on one foot written on the back of the card in which all of the students participated.

First grade students colored each food group on their handout.

Here is the proud owner of a finished poster.

Take Charge of Your Own Body

2012-01-06T16:21:00.003-06:00

Ali is teaching the kindergarten ways to keep themselves safe.

During the month of January, Ali from Cedar Valley Friends of the Family, visits each classroom of New Hampton Elementary. She teaches the students strategies to remember in order to be in charge of their own bodies if someone tries to touch them inappropriately. This kindergarten class practiced saying very loudly, "No!" and/or "I want you to stop doing that!" In addition, she taught the students that if need be they should run to a safe place or person and they should always tell an adult they know they can trust. The students got to practice using these strategies with Allie during the lesson.

January 6th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2012-01-06T16:07:00.000-06:00

Katie Steinlage is definitely a bucket filler. She was very excited to have her name drawn as the winner. Katie is a second grader in the classroom of Mrs. Geerts. She likes to help her teacher clean the room. She also says she likes to help her little brother at home. Katie enjoys teaching him things.

Congratulations, Katie!

Brianna Jordan is a first grader is in classroom of Mrs. Reicks. She was smiling from ear to ear when she came in to the office to get her t-shirt. Of course, the neon green t-shirt made her face light up. Brianna loves to help her friends with their work and also to help her teacher.

Congratulations, Brianna!

Brianna and Katie make New Hampton Elementary a great place to be. So do all of the classroom bucket fillers of the week pictured here.

Congratulations to these classroom bucket fillers of the week!

Fleece Blanket Delivery

2011-12-22T13:49:00.000-06:00

The wind was straight out of the north making the air a bit chilly as the fourth graders from Mr. Pagel's room walked over to the hospital on December 23rd. These Kids in Charge had an important mission. They were delivering 34 fleece blankets to Mercy Hospital to be distributed to children and adults who are patients. The blankets were made by the seventeen K - 4 classrooms of NHE as their caring project during the month of December. Children brought coins and staff paid to wear jeans for a day to fund the purchase of fifty-one yards of fleece.


Mrs. Jane Throndson and the fourth graders greet Jenny at the hospital.


Jenny receives the blankets from an excited group of fourth graders.

The fourth graders are leaving the hospital after their fleece blanket presentation.

December 23rd Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-12-22T13:36:00.002-06:00


These students were the classroom bucket fillers on December 23rd.

Carson Fangman is a second grader in the classroom of Mrs. Nuss. He is a helper at school and is just delighted his name was pulled out to be the winner of the t-shirt. He hurried right down to the office and just couldn't stop smiling.

We congratulate you, Carson. Thank you for being a bucket filler at NHE everyday!

Madison Mangano is a fourth grader in Mr. Pagel's classroom. She put her name in the bucket for being a helper, also. Madison has a wonderful smile and she shares it readily. She looks especially good in the neon green t-shirt.

Congratulations, Madison. You make NHE a great place to be!

Evan Ellsworth was surprised to hear his name over the intercom. He hustled right down to the office and we found a t-shirt that was just the right fit for him. He got to put his name in the classroom bucket because he made sure that a friend was not left out of a game. Way to go, Evan. That is what friendship is all about and that is what bucket filling is all about.

We are very proud to have you wear this t-shirt! Congratulations!

Mallory Cleveland was watching the Polar Express movie when her name was called. We had to go get her to let her know that she was one of the winners of the t-shirts for being a bucket filler. Mallory said she got her name in the bucket for helping her teacher, Mrs. Dietzenbach. She is in the first grade.

The shirt looks great on you, Mallory. You have many years ahead of you to practice bucket filling and I just know you are going to do it. I am so proud of you!

December 16th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-12-16T15:55:00.001-06:00

When Austin's name was drawn and announced over the intercom, he was standing in my office within two minutes with a big grin on his face. Austin strives to be a fourth grade leader in our school and he fills buckets by helping his teacher everyday. The grin on his face shows some real pride in his accomplishments as a fourth grade student.

We are so proud of you, Austin. Thanks for being a true leader at NHE.
Austin is a fourth grader in Mrs. Hoy's classroom.

Audrey Anderson is a second grader in Mrs. Wakeman's classroom. She is a hard worker, a great helper, and a good friend to her classmates. Audrey helps her teacher and her classmates in any way that she can. She is showing her excitement about winning the t-shirt and being named bucket filler of the week in this picture.

Keep up the smiling and the good work, Audrey. You make New Hampton Elementary a great place to be.

This is a great group of NHE kids! They are the classroom bucket fillers of the week!

A Skype Visit with Dad

2011-12-15T14:37:00.001-06:00

Colin and Miranda enjoy a long-awaited visit with their Dad.

On a recent day at NHE, technology helped to put a little magic into the lives of two NHE students, Colin (kindergartener) and Miranda (first grader) Johanns. Their father, Michael Johanns is away from the family and is currently deployed in Afghanistan, which is especially tough around Christmastime. Knowing that, kindergarten teacher, Angie Rowan made the arrangements to use the skype camera to bring Dad into view if only for a few minutes.

Mrs. Rowan gathered her kindergarten students at the big screen in her room with Miranda and Colin in the prime spots. Angie reported the video quality was so good that Michael commented on the red noses of his two little ones noticing they had just come in from recess and the cold Iowa weather. All of the kindergarten students got into the act asking lots of questions of Mr. Johanns. Michael graciously shared about his job of fixing planes while over in Afghanistan.

It was a great experience for not only the two kids, but the entire class.


The quality of the video was great!

Colin and his buddies visit with Mr. Johanns.

Colin and Miranda watch and listen intently!

NHE's Holiday Caring Project

2011-12-15T14:05:00.002-06:00

Mrs. Jane Throndson, at-risk coordinator, was our cheerleader for this project.

Making Fleece Blankets for the Children’s Department

Of Mercy Hospital in New Hampton

The staff and students at New Hampton Elementary are making the Holiday season (and all year long) a little brighter for some of the children who are hospitalized at Mercy Hospital in New Hampton. K - 4 students are making fleece blankets to give to the hospital to distribute as needed. The older students paired up with the younger students to help make the fleece into blankets. To fund the project, a Jeans Day was offered to each teacher for $5. Students brought coins to add to these funds in order to purchase enough fleece for the project.

The fleece blankets will be placed in gift sacks and delivered to the hospital prior to Christmas. Here are some pictures that show the fun and excitement the project generated.

Mrs. Hammel directs the activities at one table.


Fourth grade boys preferred working on the football fleece.

Fourth graders were very patient as they helped the kindergarten students.

Students did a terrific job on the hard part, which was tying the fringe ends all the way around the blanket.

Students measured and prepared for the cutting part of the project.

Santa Claus Came to NHE

2011-12-15T13:09:00.001-06:00

Can you imagine the noise level in the cafeteria on Thursday, December 15th when Santa decided to show up and serve ice cream to all good boys and girls at New Hampton Elementary? Santa was a busy man. He led the students in song, served ice cream to every student, and walked around with his ho-ho-ho's. There's not another person that can fill the NHE cafeteria with noise, excitement, and joy like the holiday's main-man, himself!


Santa led us in song. Here he is leading us in singing Jingle Bells.

Santa served ice cream to every good girl and boy at NHE.

Santa knows all the words to Santa Claus is Comin' to Town.

The fourth graders got to spend a little extra time with Santa!

Have a Happy, Happy Holiday!

2011-12-11T14:23:00.001-06:00

First graders follow Mrs. Mohling's directions to keep together.

The 2011 Holiday Program was entitled Have a Happy, Happy, Holiday and it was a success! A capacity crowd of parents, grandparents, other relatives, and friends filled the high school gymnasium to enjoy the joy that effervesced from NHE's K - 4 students and their director, Mrs. Shelley Mohling. Here are a few photos that captured the spirit of the evening.


When is this program going to start?

This kindergarten student couldn't resist waving at the audience.

Second graders learned sign language for one of their songs.

Santa arrived during the 3rd and 4th grade mini-musical.

December 9th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-12-11T14:10:00.001-06:00

Sophia Meissen is the lucky winner of a neon green t-shirt for being a bucket filler. She is in Ms. Snyder's first grade classroom and is always a helper. The smile you see her wearing in this picture is the one she shares with everyone on a regular basis.

We are proud of you, Sophia! Keep up the good work! You are such a caring person!

Hailey Shekleton is a second grader who was also chosen to be a t-shirt winner. She looks happy, too!

Hailey is kind to her friends and peers at school. She is also kind to the animals that she calls her own. Her horse Peaches is a real favorite of hers. I am sure we won't be seeing Peaches in a neon green t-shirt soon, but we will see the gal riding on Peaches wearing one.

Congratulations, Hailey! Hailey is a second grader in the classroom of Mrs. Wakeman.

Classroom bucket fillers show off their free ice cream cone certificates from McDonald's.

Holiday Program Rehearsal Looks Like......

2011-12-02T16:35:00.000-06:00

Santa's elves singing "It's About Love" with great voices.

Mrs. Mohling directing kids in action and song!


Mr. Pagel helping Santa get dressed for his appearance.

December 2nd Bucket Filler of the Week

2011-12-02T16:18:00.000-06:00

Britney Stover is a Bucket Filler t-shirt winner on December 2nd. Britney is a cheerful, delightful third grader in Mrs. Heeren's classroom. She is always smiling. I can describe her as a happy child! Mrs. Heeren says she is always helpful in her classroom and lends a hand to anyone who needs it.

Congratulations, Britney! We are so proud of you!

Tanner Njus is also our bucket filler t-shirt winner. Tanner is in the first grade and when his name was called over the intercom, he hurried to the office to find a shirt that would fit him. That wasn't hard to do! The first shirt we tried just fit and he said, "I will take this one!" He hurried to pose for his picture with a big smile. Tanner smiles a lot and is very helpful with his classmates.

Tanner Njus makes New Hampton Elementary a great place to be!
Congratulations, Tanner!

These classroom bucket fillers won a certificate from McDonald's for a free ice cream cone.

Tasting Parties at The Learning Center

2011-12-01T08:43:00.003-06:00


Tasting healthy foods is like a party!

All the students at The Learning Center, New Hampton Elementary's early childhood program, have been learning about nutrition and the food groups these past few weeks. The students have learned about foods that are good for them, those not so good for them, and once-in-awhile foods.

Recently, each child brought in a sample from one food group for all the students to taste. Tables were set up according to food groups and the students rotated through each food group table. The students tasted foods from all the food groups, dairy, grains/breads, meat and protein, vegetable, and fruit.

Here are just a few samples of what the students tasted: yogurt, cheese, muffins, cereal, banana bread, snap peas, celery, beats, oranges, peaches, broccoli, craisins, apples.turkey, ham, and smoked beef. Parents volunteered to help with the different tables. The students used the new food group place mats during this experience.

We so enjoy having parents come in to help out for these kinds of experiences.

Third and Fourth Grade Wellness Survey Results

2011-11-29T14:01:00.000-06:00

Wellness Surveys

The third and fourth graders recently completed a wellness survey. Students were asked to put a check mark in front of all of the healthy practices in which they engage. We tallied their checkmarks to assess the practices on which they need some work. Both the third and fourth graders need work on these indicators:

Know what their weight is
Eat five servings of fruits/vegetables each day
Drink eight glasses of water each day
Know the risk factors of diabetes
Limit screen time (TV, computer, etc.)

An additional indicator for the third grade that wasn’t marked often was:

Feel happy most of the day

An additional indicator for the fourth grade that wasn’t marked often was;

Bathe/clean yourself daily.

Have a Happy, Happy Holiday!

2011-11-29T13:06:00.000-06:00

It is so much fun to get ready for the Holiday Program with Mrs. Mohling!

Have a Happy, Happy Holiday!

Tis the season! All of the elementary music classes have been busy preparing for the holiday winter program to be held on Monday, December 5^th at 7:00 p.m. at the New Hampton High School gymnasium. Our theme this year is “Have a Happy, Happy Holiday!”

Without giving too many of the surprises away, you will hear a few new holiday songs as well as some familiar favorites. You will see instrument playing, choreography, props, and lots of smiles! AND….the 3^rd and 4^th graders will try their hand and do a mini musical, “Melton, The Warm-Hearted Snowman.”

As in past years, the elementary students will be bussed over to the high school gym for a dress rehearsal/matinee on Monday afternoon at 1:30. Once the matinee is over, they will be bussed back to the elementary building.

Middle School and High School musicians are also preparing for their winter concerts. Tuesday, December 13^th is the High School Band and Vocal Holiday Concert at 7:00 p.m. at the NH High School gym.

The Middle School winter program will be held on Thursday, December 15^th in the Middle School Auditorium. This concert will be divided into two parts. Part one begins at 7:00 p.m. and will feature the 5^th and 6^th grade bands, choirs and Keynotes. There will be a short intermission shortly before 8:00 to prepare for the second part of the concert. Part two will begin about 8:10 and will feature the 7^th & 8^th grade Mixed Chorus and Band.

Mark your calendars and plan to enjoy an evening or two or three out to be sure you “Have A Happy, Happy Holiday” with the New Hampton musicians. Mrs. Mohling

Thanks Bank Iowa!

2011-11-29T12:58:00.000-06:00

November's bucket fillers happily pose with Mr. Rich Kriener of Bank Iowa.

We are grateful to Rich Kriener and Bank Iowa personnel for their sponsorship of our Bucket Filling Program. Every week, we draw two names from the office buckets and the winners are awarded bucket filling t-shirts purchased by Bank Iowa. We are rewarding students for having positive interactions with each other. Research shows that students who grow accustomed to having positive interactions at an early age will not only thrive and be able to learn, but will more than likely engage in the practice the rest of their lives. The bucket filling offers the structure, support, and encouragement for students to engage in positive interactions. Bank Iowa's generous support of this program is most appreciated. The bank is helping NHE build productive and caring citizens for tomorrow's world.

November 18th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-11-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

Julia Havlik is the Bucket Filler of the Week during Thanksgiving Week. She is a kind and helpful fourth grader in the classroom of Mrs. Hoy. She is quick to use her manners and has a ready smile, which she shares with her peers and teachers.

We are proud of you, Julia. You look good in that t-shirt.

Teigen Howe is a first grader in the classroom of Mrs. Dietzenbach. When interviewed for the morning message, Teigen said it feels real good to be the bucket filler of the week. He got his name in the bucket for being a helper in his classroom.

That shirt makes your eyes sparkle, Teigen. Congratulations!

The classroom bucket fillers pose with their certificates for ice cream cones.

It's Your Choice

2011-11-17T07:39:00.000-06:00

Annemarie Goldhorn, Pathwise personnel, came to NHE on Wednesday, November 16th to talk with K - 4 students about making good choices regarding drugs. She was scheduled to come during Red Ribbon Week, but had to be cancelled because of a late start due to fog.

Ms. Goldhorn reminded the students that bad drugs were addictive and told them that just as they choose the right foods to eat to help their bodies grow, they need to make wise choices regarding bad drugs. She strongly urged students to take medicine (helpful drugs) only from adults they knew and trusted.


Students were attentive and had good questions for Ms. Goldhorn.

The Learning Center

2011-11-16T15:11:00.003-06:00


A session with the Preschool Teachers: Judy Morgan, Cheri Demaray, Barb Havlik, and Jolene Rosonke

It is rare to find any of the preschool teachers standing still during the day, let alone sitting! The four teachers of The Learning Center shown above in the picture are meeting with Mrs. Kennedy for a session to talk about kids and other preschool issues. This team meets often to discuss ways to improve the learning opportunities for our three and four year old children. Active learning takes place in all of the classrooms of The Learning Center (TLC) at New Hampton Elementary. TLC is a good match for the young children in this district — one that will make the first school experience a positive one that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Shopping at the grocery store!

Dressing up in Dad's cowboy boots!

Choosing healthy foods that should go on the plate!

November 11th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-11-11T15:46:00.002-06:00

I saw Alex at lunch and he said, "Mrs. Kennedy, I am the bucket filler from 1C this week. I hope my name gets chosen. I was so surprised to pull his name out of the bucket at 3:00! Alex was, also. He couldn't stop smiling and he does look great in that shirt. Alex is in the first grade classroom of Mrs. Hennessy this year. He is a big helper and likes to do favors for his peers.

Congratulations, Alex! We are so proud of you.

Emma Rosonke is a third grader in the classroom of Michelle Reicks. She is another one with a ready smile and a happy spirit. Emma helped some of her peers clean out their desks and got her name in the classroom bucket this week. And she is still smiling after a long week of taking the Iowa Assessments.

Congratulations, Emma! You and Alex make NHE a great place to be!


These are the classroom bucket fillers posing for a picture on 11/11/11.

A big thanks to McDonald's for the certificates for free ice cream cones for each of our bucket fillers.

Special Guests at The Learning Center

2011-11-10T16:18:00.001-06:00

Lily enjoyed listening to a story read by Marie Deutsch.

The Learning Center of New Hampton Elementary is a great place to be everyday. But, when special guests stop by, it is even more fun. Ms. Rosonke's PIE partner is New Hampton Care Center.

On Halloween, residents of the care center stopped by for some spooky fun!

Jim Folkers enjoys some fun with Carson and Owen!


Marie Mahlstedt watches Griffin playing with Halloween goop!

New Additions to the Third Grade

2011-11-08T16:56:00.001-06:00


Want to meet our crayfish, Mrs. Kennedy?

This week, the crayfish arrived in the third grade classrooms at NHE. The students watched them float around with their claws looking rather menacing. Most of them were eager to pick them up and get acquainted, while a few of them would just rather push them around the tank with a plastic spoon.

This twosome is investigating to find out all of the body parts of a crayfish. They were told to pick the crayfish up with a plastic spoon for this lesson.

You can tell by the face on this third grader that she is delighted to be picking this crayfish up with a spoon. Mrs. Hovey told the class that during the next science class, she would be showing them how to pick them up so they didn't get hurt. Derek said he already knew how! There is always one in the class that comes prepared.

The crayfish study each year is one that the kids really enjoy.

Testing: Do Not Disturb

2011-11-08T16:47:00.002-06:00

We tiptoe by the doors of the second, third, and fourth grade classrooms during the week of November 7th. We encourage the students to get plenty of rest, eat healthy foods, and to get some good physical exercise.

We want our students to have every opportunity to do their best on the Iowa Assessments.

Students are saying the tests are making them really think! Our students can do that and we hope they are doing their best to show us all that they know!

As you walk through the hallways of NHE, you are likely to pass one of these signs on doors. Be sure to walk by quietly!

November 4th Bucket Fillers of the Week!

2011-11-04T16:51:00.000-05:00

Megan Ohm is one of our fourth graders. She is in Mr. Pagel's fourth grade classroom. Megan smiles a lot and is very friendly. Congratulations to Megan for being the Bucket Filler of the Week. She looks great in her neon t-shirt. Megan held the door open for others as they walked into science class. She is always being helpful and cheerful, just like a bucket filler.

Congratulations to you, Megan Ohm. We are proud of you!

Addison Trower is a kindergarten student in the classroom of Mrs. Ries, was thrilled to have her name drawn, She hurried down to the office when she heard her name over the intercom. We found just the right size for her and she readily posed with her Bucket Filler of the Week certificate. Addison is always ready to start her day and is a big helper in her classroom.

We are so proud of you, Addison! You make New Hampton Elementary a great place to be.

Congratulations, Bucket Fillers! Enjoy your ice cream cones from McDonald's.

Scary Times: TLC Halloween Celebration

2011-10-31T12:20:00.000-05:00

Early on Halloween morning, which was a Monday morning this year, the preschool students strolled into my office as NASA engineers, spidermen, prisoners, princesses, policemen, witches, vampires, and many other creatures. It was a fun, but spooky way to start my week. This group belongs to Mrs. Havlik.

When they left, I asked the policeman to help the princess in front of him so that she didn't take a tumble on the steps. He said, "I can do that Mrs. Kennedy because I am a policeman. I help people."

The next group that came in was from Ms. Rosonke's class. Their costumes were equally as interesting. This group performed Five Little Pumpkins for me.

This is a group of twenty, and we tried hard to squeeze them all into this picture. The faces I could see were smiling really big!

This is Mrs. Demaray's TLC group. We moved into the elementary workroom for more space so we could get everyone in the picture and we almost did! This group brought along a Dr. Seuss and a vampire! The vampire told me he was even wearing vampire shoes.

It was a very sca-a-a-a-a--a-a-a-ary morning in the elementary office.

Morning Message

2011-10-27T14:13:00.000-05:00

Here is Blake Geerts in the elementary office at 8:20 in the morning delivering the morning message he prepared for all of the students at New Hampton Elementary. In Mrs. Hoy's Literacy classes (reading, writing, listening, speaking), fourth grade students write their messages and practice their speaking skills in delivering them. They try hard to write something clever and then deliver it with a friendly, fluent speaking voice. They also must practice the pillar responsibility in getting down to the office at the right time to deliver the message.

Writing and delivering the morning message are responsibilities of the Kids in Charge, the leadership group that each fourth grader participates in at some time throughout the school year.

Mrs. Hoy's fourth graders have been the Kids in Charge since the first day of school. They got to escort the younger students to the auditorium for the Ronald McDonald Production. Many of these students are also student bankers at the Giant Piggy Bank.

October 27th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-10-27T14:00:00.001-05:00

Kameran Josephson is a bucket filler! When he came to the office after his name was drawn from the office bucket, I asked him what he had done to be the bucket filler of the week. He said, "I don't remember!" He had the biggest smile when he said it that I suspect he just fills buckets all day long with that smile. That is all it takes to fill a bucket, you know.

Kameran is a kindergarten student in the classroom of Mrs. Nosbisch.

Congratulations, Kameran. Keep on smiling!

Blake Geerts is a bucket filler at New Hampton Elementary, also. Lots of people know and enjoy his bubbly personality. He is always smiling! He told me his name was placed in the classroom bucket because he is a helper in his classroom and that he loves to help!

Blake is in the classroom of Mrs. Hoy.

Congratulations, Blake!

These classroom bucket fillers won a free ice cream cone from McDonald's!

Preparing for the New Iowa Assessments

2011-10-27T12:39:00.000-05:00

Dear Parents:

New Hampton Elementary will be administering the annual state required test to students in grades 2-4 beginning on Monday, November 7th. You may be familiar with the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills, which are now being called the Iowa Assessments. In addition to the name change, several portions of the new test have been rewritten to align with the Common Core State Standards.

Students will be tested in the following general areas: reading, writing expression, math, computation, science, social studies, and vocabulary. Students in grades 3-4 are also tested in spelling, capitalization and punctuation. The reading, written expression, vocabulary, spelling, capitalization, punctuation, mathematics, and computation tests have all been aligned to the Common Core State Standards.

Beyond determining simple proficiency levels, the results from the Iowa Assessments can be helpful in many ways to many people. The test provides parents, students, and educators with information on what students know and can do in key academic areas. As students progress through school, their yearly growth in these key areas can be observed and their college-readiness monitored. In addition, group results can be used as part of a comprehensive program evaluation. These are just a few of the ways that the results can provide helpful information.

The Iowa Assessments will be conducted in the same manner as in the past and student reports will be sent home when they arrive in the district. However, because of the changes in the test, it will take time for the test developer to gather information to make state and national comparisons. The test developer is currently working on those comparisons and that will take some time.

How can I help my child(ren) be prepared?

Help them get a good night's sleep prior to the testing.
Help them begin the day(s) of testing with a breakfast of some type of protein, complex carbohydrates (whole grain cereal or bread), and some type of fruit.
Talk with them about the test and its importance.

If you have questions, feel free to contact Mrs. Kennedy @ 394-5858.

Red Ribbon Week: The Story of Kiki Camerena

2011-10-24T07:58:00.006-05:00


Red Ribbon Week at New Hampton Elementary!

Kiki Camarena grew up in a very poor family. When he was old enough, he became a police officer and joined the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. His mother didn’t want him to join this drug team because it was dangerous. But Kiki said, “I want to make a difference! “ Kiki Camerena was definitely a bucket filler.

When he was 37 years old, Kiki was sent to Mexico to work undercover and investigate a huge, major drug group that was breaking the law selling dangerous drugs.

While Kiki was in Mexico, he stepped out of his office one day to go out for lunch with his wife. When he was walking out to his car, five bad drug dealers appeared at his side and shoved him in their car and drove away. All of his friends and the other police and drug officers looked for him for days and couldn’t find him. After about a month of looking for him when everyone was so sad and just sure they would never find him, someone found his body in a shallow grave. The drug dealers who kidnapped him had tortured him to death.

Everyone was so sad that he had died because Kiki was loved and admired by many. His fellow workers and friends knew him as a man that was trying to do the right thing by going after the drug dealers who were selling bad drugs to people and even children in Mexico. We all know what strong, bad drugs do to our bodies. Bad drugs have a harmful effect on our hearts, brain, liver, and other parts of our bodies.

Shortly after Kiki was found dead, his friends and comrades got together and pledged to lead drug-free lives. Also, in Kiki’s honor, they started to wear red satin ribbons. Today we celebrate Kiki’s life and the work that he did by wearing red ribbons during Red Ribbon Week and learning about bad drugs and their harmful effects.

During this week, we will celebrate Kiki’s life. Kiki Camerena was a bucket filler. He worked hard. He did the right thing to protect people and especially children from drugs.

This is a scene from last year's Red Ribbon Assembly!

October 21st Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-10-21T15:59:00.000-05:00

Carlee Rochford from 1B, is our Bucket Filler of the Week. We are all proud of Carlee as she is a great example of a first grade bucket filler. She tries hard to follow all of the expectations and rules at NHE. She is a great helper for her teacher and she is always smiling. Way to go, Carlee!

Collin Onken from 3C is our second Bucket Filler of the Week. I always enjoy seeing Collin in the cafeteria, his classroom, and the hallways of NHE. He always has a big grin and is very friendly to everyone. Collin got his name in the bucket this week for helping one of our new students. I am certain that new student was very thankful to have found a friend like Collin Onken. Congratulations, Collin!

These are the October 21st Bucket Fillers from the K - 4 classrooms of NHE!

Getting Ready for Parent/Teacher Conferences

2011-10-19T15:07:00.001-05:00

Teachers are doing many things with their students this week to prepare for parent/teacher conferences. Most think it is good to have some input from the student when the parents come to find out how each is doing academically. Some teachers have their students write a letter to their parent. Some have them prepare a folder of their work to share.

This little first grader is completing a survey to let her parents know how she feels about various first grade activities. She was asked to color the smiling face (I like it!), the sober face (It's just okay!), or the sad face (I don't like it!).


Hunter colored all of his smiling faces!

T is for Teabags

2011-10-19T14:41:00.000-05:00

The preschool students are learning their letters and sounds! As they study each new letter, they are told to bring in items that start with that letter to share with the class.

The week of October 17th, each student was told to bring in ten items that started with t to share with the class. This student brought ten teabags to share and count with his class for the letter 't'. This activity encourages the students to listen for the new sounds they are learning about in their home environments.

I am in these classrooms everyday and am so pleased at the foundational skills TLC students are learning for literacy, math, language, and science.

Ronald McDonald's Program

2011-10-19T14:22:00.004-05:00

Miles Breitbach learned to spin plates!

It is always a good time when Ronald McDonald shows up on stage in any school building and his time at NHE was no exception. The students of NHE had a great time on October 19th interacting with him throughout his program on anti-bullying. His message came through strong and clear. He told the kids not to let anyone bully them - ever! He brought out some good ideas from them about what to do when someone was trying to have power over them through a bullying act. NHE kids suggested talking it out, telling the teacher or an adult, or just walking away. Ronald McDonald sang a lively song entitled So What that invited NHE students to use those two words when being teased or bullied.

A huge thank you to Mrs. Hoy's class! These Kids in Charge were a big help in escorting students to the auditorium for this program.

A huge thank you to New Hampton McDonald's Corporation for sponsoring this production.

Avery Throndson shares a few laughs with Ronald during the show.


Cassidy Grover performed a magic trick with Ronald McDonald.

Money Counts!

2011-10-18T15:01:00.001-05:00

First graders need a lot of hands-on experience counting money. Teachers have found that working with real money is the best as students don't have to guess what a coin is when they have the real thing in front of them. On a recent afternoon, first graders were counting pennies and grouping them to make different amounts.

Some students struggle with learning how to count money in these days of charge cards and bank transactions that do not require spending pennies, nickels, and dimes.

Pictured are two boys sharing and counting a pile of pennies. The first grade teachers build on the money concepts taught in kindergarten through lots of money-counting experiences.

A huge thank you to parents who help their child learn these concepts at home, also.

Wellness Topics at the Kindergarten Level

2011-10-18T14:53:00.000-05:00

Getting Enough Sleep: This is a very important topic at the kindergarten level. Children this age resist the opportunity to get to bed early. We know they benefit from a structured routine that defines an early bedtime. It is easy to tell which students get the proper amount of sleep. They are the students that can really stay with the school routine and not tire. Pictured is Mrs. Nosbisch sharing a poster with her students and conducting a discussion about what should happen at bedtime at each of their homes.

Mrs. Ries displays hands full of glitter.

Sharing Germs: Mrs. Ries conducted a fun experiment in her room recently to show students how easily they share germs. She pressed both of her hands into a pile of glitter and then began to shake hands with each of her students. They then turned and shook hands with a neighbor. After the shaking hands session, they all looked at their hands and realized they had shared the glitter that Mrs. Ries had passed on to them. She then led a discussion about how germs are shared and why it is so important to wash hands often and well.

One of her students display a glittery hand!

October 14th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-10-14T16:24:00.000-05:00

Lane Grober is a third grader in Mrs. Heeren's classroom. He likes to help others and he got his name in the bucket for doing just that. Lane was surprised that his name was drawn to win a t-shirt because this was the first time this year that he got his name in the 3A classroom bucket. Lane, you are a lucky boy! Congratulations!

Congratulations, Winnie Willits. Winnie is also a lucky girl. She had a great week as a second grader in the classroom of Mrs. Nuss. Twice, Winnie filled her teacher's bucket by getting her work done without even being told or reminded. Way to go, Winnie! You certainly look good in that neon green t-shirt.

Thank you, Bank Iowa for donating the t-shirts and for your ongoing support of this initiative.

Pictured are all of the classroom bucket fillers whose names were drawn on Friday, October 14th. By the looks of the smiles, you can see they are the reason why New Hampton Elementary is a great place to be. Each of them are holding up their certificates for a free ice cream cone donated by McDonald's.

Congratulations, Bucket Fillers! You surely earned those ice cream cones.

Thank you for supporting this program, McDonald's.

TLC Children Learn About Bucket Filling

2011-10-14T15:28:00.001-05:00

Who wouldn't love my job! As elementary principal, I am the recipient of so many hugs and smiles everyday from the greatest kids in the nation. I also get to go into the classrooms to observe and/or interact with the students on a daily basis.

I have gone into the kindergarten, first, and second grades so far this year to share a developmentally - appropriate book about filling buckets. I also share a message about my expectations of how students should treat each other here at NHE. Just recently, I read to the TLC students. I was impressed and pleased at how quick they seem to understand the bucket message. They just get it!

For more information about our Filling Buckets initiative, go to http://www.new-hampton.k12.ia.us/ELEM/ELMAIN2.HTM

Fourth Grade Parent Meeting

2011-10-12T13:03:00.001-05:00

One of the things we enjoy doing and try to do as often as possible here at NHE is to reach out to parents and give them some tools they can use when they are helping their students with homework at night. Math has become quite an issue for parents as many of them say they don't truly know how to help their child the way math is being presented to students these days.

On a recent October afternoon, NHE staff members Dennis Pagel, Jane Throndson, Lynette Schwickerath, and myself invited a few parents of fourth grade students in to present some new ideas, websites, and an online program parents can use to boost their child's math skills at home. It was a great meeting and we are grateful to these parents for partnering with us to insure their child has every opportunity to succeed in school.

Picture Taking Day at NHE

2011-10-12T12:21:00.000-05:00

Everyone was wearing their best smile on a recent Thursday and Friday for the annual school photographs. There is just something special about that day for everyone. One NHE student reported, "I don't feel well today, but Mom said I couldn't miss getting my picture taken." We had students who wanted a mirror and a little extra primping as they stepped in front of the camera and then those who didn't really care about using the comb given to them for anything other than placing it in their pockets.

These first graders are waiting patiently while trying not to mess up their hair or clothing. After the picture taking was completed and the auditorium was in rest mode, the photographers told me how impressed they were with our students. They were impressed at how well behaved and polite they were as they waited. One NHE student even went up and shook the hand of the photographer after his picture was taken. It certainly filled my bucket and that of our teachers to hear a compliment such as that.

Some of our preschool students had their pictures taken on Thursday, October 6th.

Pat Ipsen and NH Public Library: Partners in Education

2011-10-11T07:07:00.000-05:00

New Hampton Elementary Title I staff are Partners in Education with Pat Ipsen and the New Hampton Public Library. On Friday, October 7th, first and second grade Title I students walked over to the library and enjoyed a story read by Pat Ipsen, head librarian. Mrs. Ipsen shared the story Book Book Book by Deborah Bruss (pictured). The reading of the story was followed by a tour of the library. Students left with a special bag containing bookmarks, pins, and other fun items.

The Partners in Education Program of New Hampton Elementary has forged a strong connection to different businesses and entities of this community.

Walk! Start Somewhere! Iowa Initiative!

2011-10-07T15:56:00.000-05:00

On Friday, October 7th, all of the students at New Hampton Elementary participated in Governor Branstad's healthiest state in the nation initiative entitled Walk....Start Somewhere.

The preschool children walked on the playground. It was so windy outside, they had to keep their feet firmly planted!

The kindergarten students walked out to the high school and back and ended up on the track on the playground.

Walking once every six days for twenty minutes has become a part of the Wellness Curriculum of NHE. The students are building their stamina and are finding they can walk faster and farther each time they venture out.

October 7th Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-10-07T15:45:00.000-05:00

Sky Betts name was drawn for Bucket Filler of the Week on October 7th. Sky is a second grader in the classroom of Mrs. Geerts. She is very helpful in her classroom and got her name in the bucket for picking up things and just being a great helper. She said, "I am always a good helper."

Sky has a beautiful smile and shares that readily. I can attest to that. I love meeting her in the hallways and seeing her in the cafeteria.

Congratulations, Sky!


All of the classroom bucket fillers won a certificate for a free ice cream cone from McDonald's.

Katelyn Zweibohmer was the second winner of a t-shirt for being the Bucket Filler of the Week on October 7th. Katelyn is a fourth grader in the classroom of Mrs. Quirk.

Katelyn is always helpful in her classroom and loves to do things for her classmates. It was easy for her to smile for this picture, because she is always smiling!

Congratulations, Katelyn! You help make New Hampton Elementary a great place to be, everyday of the week!

2011-10-04T16:20:00.000-05:00

At 2:15 on Tuesday, October 4th, Kaitlyn and Kaylee Roethler were playing together on the playground. Soon after that, they enjoyed a long awaited reunion with their father, Tony Roethler, who has been deployed in Afghanistan for the last eight months. He surprised them both as he burst through the school door and into their arms. New Hampton Elementary is a great place to be everyday, but especially on days when joyful things happen such as this family reunion.


First Kaylee saw her father.


Then Kaitlyn got into the act.

Roses for Kaylee and Kaitlyn!

September 30th Bucket Filler of the Week

2011-09-30T15:15:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Carter Steinlage! Carter is a first grader and he certainly does his part to make NHE a great place to be everyday. Mrs. Snyder, his teacher said he uses manners when interacting with his peers. That makes for a great day for everyone, Carter.

We are so proud of you! When Carter got his t-shirt, he said, "My sister is really going to be surprised when she sees this! " The rest of us were not surprised at all that Carter's name was drawn to be Bucket Filler of the Week.

Training for Conflict Managers

2011-09-30T07:35:00.001-05:00

Conflict managers work in groups to define conflicts.

Who Are Conflict Managers?
Conflict Managers are specially chosen and trained students who help other students get along with each other. Students are nominated by their peers and teachers in the selection process.

What Do Conflict Managers Do?
When students are involved in a non-physical dispute, they are asked if they would like Conflict Managers to help them solve their problem. If the students want help, the Conflict Managers help them by using a
problem-solving process to clarify the problem and to reach a win-win
ending for the students involved. Conflict Managers work during
recess times.

What Will Conflict Managers Learn In Training?
1. Leadership Skills
2. Communication Skills
a. How to express feelings and needs/wants
b. How to listen without taking sides
c. Active listening skills
3. Problem Solving Skills (Talk It Out Method)
4. How in improve the school climate
5. How to spot and stop bullying behaviors

Conflict managers role play and practice using their skills

Conflict managers fish for conflicts and utilize the recess forms.

Conflict managers write bucket filling messages to each other to
practice complimenting others.

First Grade Penpals

2011-09-28T08:26:00.000-05:00

The first graders of NHE are penpals with the first graders of Lincoln Elementary in Osage, Iowa. Their initial visit took place on Friday, October 16th when NHE first graders boarded a bus to ride to Osage.

The students walked the nature trail together and had fun just getting acquainted. They finished the one mile trail and had a bucket filling day together. Throughout the year, they will write to each other and then get together again in the spring.

New Hampton Elementary and Lincoln Elementary Penpals

September's Bucket Fillers of the Week

2011-09-28T08:10:00.000-05:00

Bucket fillers at NHE are children who share their good feelings with others by being kind and doing good things for them. September's bucket fillers are Grace Maloy KC, Ava Throndson KC, Trinity Schwickerath KD, Cade Murray 3A, and Preston Pickar 4A.

Pictured with these bucket fillers is Rich Kriener, president of Bank Iowa. Mr. Kriener is a big supporter of programming for kids. Bank Iowa purchased the t-shirts for this initiative this year.

We are grateful to them for helping us facilitate this program.

Homecoming at NHE

2011-09-23T16:49:00.002-05:00

It was a sea of red and black as you looked out the window to the grassy area of the playground. NHE students gathered on Homecoming Friday to play some games, do some cheers, and celebrate being Chickasaws. It was also a celebration of the end of the food drive that had taken place throughout the week. The teachers of the classrooms at each grade level had to endure a pie in the face to the delight of the children.

Mrs. Heeren, third grade teacher, got two pies in the face because her class collected the most food items of all of the classrooms at NHE! Way to go, Mrs. Heeren's class!

The third grade teachers showed their skill with hangers as students threaded a dozen hangers on to the one that they held. The object of this game was to keep all of the hangers hanging straight....easier said than done.

Teachers chomped on bubble gum to work it up so they could compete in a bubble gum blowing contest. Congratulations to Mrs. Geerts. She blew the biggest bubble.

September 26th Bucket Filler of the Week

2011-09-23T16:40:00.002-05:00

Trinity Schwickerath was named Bucket Filler of the Week on Friday, September 26th. Trinity is a kindergarten student in Mrs. Throndson's classroom.

When asked what he did to get his name in the bucket, Trinity said he always does what his teacher asks him to do right away.

Mrs Throndson said, "Trinity is the definition of a bucket filler. He is a great kid."

Congratulations, Trinity! We are proud of you!

Homecoming Week

2011-09-23T13:44:00.000-05:00

Homecoming Week offered many fun opportunities for the students to enjoy and spread their wings. This year's activities included Celebrity Reader, Autograph Day, Homecoming Assembly, Food Drive, and dress-up days.

Homecoming Week is a great time to connect for students to make a strong connection with their school and community. It is a time to show their spirit and loyalty.

The students really get into the dress-up days, as these kindergarten students demonstrated on Friday, red and black day, also known as Spirit Day.

Homecoming Week Service Project

2011-09-23T13:34:00.000-05:00

A highlight of each year's Homecoming Week is the food drive that students conduct as a service project for the community. Pictured are some of the fourth grade Kids in Charge posing in front of the food collected on Homecoming Friday, the last day to bring items.

It will surely take several boxes and a pickup to get all of these items to the Food Pantry. The teacher of the class from each grade level that brought the most food items was rewarded with a pie in the face at the Homecoming Assembly on Friday.

Homecoming Parade

2011-09-23T08:38:00.000-05:00

There is something about a parade that brings out the kid in all of us. The 2011 Homecoming Parade was no exception to that premise.

On a brisk September evening, seven NHE educators hopped in the back of a red pickup for a ride down Main Street, New Hampton. It was great fun to see so many kids, parents, and others lining the streets with big smiles and waves.

The sign in front of the pickup said it all for each of us, "New Hampton Elementary is the place for me!"

We love a good parade!

Celebrity Readers

2011-09-22T15:12:00.001-05:00

One of the highlights of Homecoming Week is having high school athletes come down and read stories to the PK - 6 classrooms of the district. After a story is read, there is usually a question and answer time so that students can find out what it is like to be a student/athlete at New Hampton High School.

Pictured is Kyle Smith reading to a group of kindergarten students. It looks like an NHHS Chickasaw reading to some very engaged NHE Chickasaws.

Below are a few more pictures of this highly anticipated event!

First graders listen intently to NHHS Celebrity Readers.

Back in the Classroom Again

2011-09-22T15:03:00.000-05:00

The Learning Center of New Hampton Elementary is so happy that Judy Morgan, once retired educator, decided to get back into the classroom again.

During the 2010-11 school year, Mrs. Morgan served as a substitute in the preschool classrooms of this district. She enjoyed it so much that when a part-time position opened up in a classroom for three-year-old children, she applied for the position. Pictured is Mrs. Morgan and a few of her children.

She is truly enjoying this second opportunity to have a positive impact on children.

Title I Lunch and Learn

2011-09-22T12:51:00.004-05:00

Mrs. Newbrough shares information about the Title I Program.

During the month of September, the parents of our Title I students are invited in to meet the teacher and hear specifics about the Title I Program. Recently, several parents and first - fourth grade students gathered for Lunch and Learn sessions with Mrs. Amy Newbrough, Mrs. Sara Baltes, and Ms. Joyce Mueterthies. The teachers presented information about the program and also shared ideas on how parents can be continually involved in helping their students become quality readers. Lunches were prepared by the cafeteria and were apparently pretty tasty, according to comments made by parents and students. The students loved having their parents come in for this session and for lunch.


Second grade students sing the T-Shirt song for their parents.

Lunch and Learn is a great family activity.

September 16th Bucket Filler of the Week

2011-09-19T12:10:00.000-05:00

Ava Throndson is enjoying the title of being NHE Bucket Filler of the Week. Her name was drawn out of the office bucket on September 16th. Ava is a kindergarten students in Mrs. Rowan's classroom.

Ava is always kind to others. To get her name in her classroom bucket, she helped a friend zip up her jacket and allowed another friend to guided another friend to get in line safely. She is proud of being helpful to others and helping them to keep their buckets full. She knows that when she is a bucket filler to others, her own bucket gets filled, also. Congratulations, Ava! We are proud of you!

Technology in Kindergarten

2011-09-15T16:19:00.000-05:00

The kindergarten teachers have found a new way to deliver phonics instruction. This year they are teaching the Jolly Phonics Program and using the LCD projector to teach the letters and the sounds to our early literacy learners.

The students love the lessons and are so engaged. They get to take turns hopping up to the board to interact with the information. They are learning a letter a day, which is fast-paced, but they are keeping up with the program and enjoying it. Soon they will be blending these letters to read words! I am having fun visiting these rooms each day and monitoring their growth.

Welcome, Grandma Pat

2011-09-15T12:46:00.004-05:00

Welcome, Grandma Pat Leichtman! It is great fun to walk into a first grade classroom and see Grandma Pat in the midst of all of the first graders or sitting at a table reading with one or more of them. Grandma Pat starts her day at NHE with four first grade teachers and the 79 children in their charge. Grandma Pat is sponsored and trained by the Foster Grandparenting Program, which is directed by Mary Litterer of Charles City.

The students love having her attention when they read to her or practice a skill with her. Grandma Pat said, "I was so nervous about starting as
a Foster Grandparent, but I am having so much fun." So are the students
and the teachers are enjoying having an extra hand.

Grandma Pat is making many new friends.

Fall MAP Testing

2011-09-15T10:55:00.002-05:00

During the week of September 12th, third and fourth grade students spent some time at the computer thinking and applying their literacy, math, and language art skills. They were taking the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessments.

The content of the MAP tests is aligned with the district Literacy, Mathematics, and Language Arts Curriculum, which are available on the district website. The tests are given from grades 3 - 11 in the fall and from grades 2 - 11 in the spring. The fall scores give teachers a snapshot of what students know and are able to do at the beginning of the year in each of the areas. The spring scores help teachers know how much each student has grown academically throughout the school year.

As is evident in these pictures, NHE students work hard to do their best work. At the end of the test, their score pops up on the screen so they know immediately if they have raised their scores. They are usually pumping their fists in the air when the score shows up.

September 9th Bucket Filler of the Week

2011-09-09T16:21:00.000-05:00

Grace Maloy, kindergarten student in Mrs. Rowan's classroom, had her name drawn as Bucket Filler of the Week on September 9th. Grace always has a smile for everyone and is a great example of a bucket filler for all of us. She always shares playground equipment cheerfully with her peers. She had fun coming down to the office for her t-shirt.

Congratulations, Grace! We are so proud of you.

Fire and Tornado Drills

2011-09-08T16:35:00.000-05:00

Tornado drills are always a part of those first days of school.

What a beautiful day for a fire drill.

For preschool, this is a first experience.

The green cards indicate every student is accounted for and in line.

The first fire and tornado drills of this school year went well.

September 2nd Bucket Filler of the Week

2011-09-02T16:41:00.000-05:00

Cade Murray from Mrs. Hovey's third grade classroom proudly donned his new neon green t-shirt on Friday, September 2nd. His name was drawn from the office bucket after students got back from the CWC. Cade is a great bucket filler as he wears a big smile most of the time. He got his name in the bucket a few times during the week for being helpful and kind to his peers. Congratulations, Cade!

Party at the Park/at the CWC

2011-09-02T14:55:00.001-05:00

The Party at the Park on September 2nd became the Party at the Chickasaw Wellness Complex (CWC) due to a change in the weather. Students in grades 1 - 4 who completed the summer reading initiative, were invited to board a bus and spend a few hours at the CWC. Nancy Kriener hosted the event and NHE staff helped to facilitate fitness and fun events. A pre-packaged chocolate chip cookie was passed out to the lucky participants of the day in conjunction with NHE's new Snack Policy. A good time was had by all.

Research has shown that students who read during the summer do not experience the summer slide, a malady describing a loss/slide back in reading skills experienced by students who don't read at all during the summer. The summer reading initiative is designed to prevent this from happening. The Party in the Park reward is the NHE incentive designed to entice students to enjoy reading as one of their summer activities.

No one minded the change in venue too much as the CWC is a wonderful facility. Rain is usually a welcome sight this time of year. Enjoy our pictures from today's celebration!

Take my picture, Mrs. Kennedy!

You should see Mrs. Reicks do the hula hoop!

We are sharing this one!

A great way to get rid of frustrations, if you have any!

Mrs. Reicks really can hula hoop!

Thank you for the great time at the CWC, Mrs. Kriener.

The cookies were handed out at the right time.

We can do it! We can keep the ball in the parachute!

Posies With a Caring Message

2011-09-01T07:18:00.001-05:00

During the month of September, NHE students focus on the pillar of Caring. All month long teachers make sure that students know what the word caring means and what acts of caring look like with the intent and the hope that caring will become a value to each of them. NHE staff members accomplish this mission through bucket filling activities/discussions and other activities.

Second graders pose with their carnations. These three will give their flower to their mothers.

The Partners in Education (PIE) even get involved in caring activities. Karen Amundson, Pocketful of Posies, is the PIE partner of Dixie Wakeman's second graders. After their recent visit to her shop, she gave each of the second graders a lovely red tipped carnation and told each student to go out and give it to someone they care about. Students will then engage in a writing activity and write about who they chose and why they chose that person to be have their caring posie.

Chickasaw Open Golf Tournament

2011-08-31T07:52:00.000-05:00

We are most grateful to Lyle and Sally Kriener for organizing the first Chickasaw Open Golf Tournament on July 28th. The tournament, raffle, and silent auction brought in more than $7500 that will be offered to the New Hampton Community School District. The monies will be used to purchase instructional enhancements that will benefit the students of this district. Pictured are Lyle and Sally Kriener presenting a check to Dr. Steve Nicholson, superintendent of the New Hampton Community School District. Sally Kriener is a member of the Parent Advisory Council of New Hampton Elementary.

Bucket Filler of the Week

2011-08-31T07:28:00.000-05:00

Preston Pickar, fourth grader, was the first winner of the Bucket Filler of the Week t-shirt at New Hampton Elementary. Rick Kriener, Bank Iowa, generously purchased t-shirts for NHE’s Bucket Filling Program. Each week, a lucky NHE student will have his/her name drawn to become the Bucket Filler of the Week. Preston performed many kind acts during the week to gain this honor. Winners will be asked to wear their shirts every Monday as a reminder to all students to start each week out with their kindest behavior towards others.

The Bucket Filling Program was established at NHE as an anti-bullying program. Students from preschool through the fourth grade are taught the three concepts of Bucket Filling, a national program based on research conducted by psychologists, Tom Rath and Donald Clifton.

Other bucket fillers of the week come down for a prize!

Fourth Grade Visit District Greenhouse

2011-08-31T07:25:00.000-05:00


A healthy looking purple pepper!

Friday, August 26^th, the fourth graders walked out to the high school to be escorted through the district greenhouse by the NHHS Horticulture Class. Students enjoyed the tour of vegetables. They learned that the vegetables they were seeing would make their way to the salad bar in the NHE cafeteria very soon. After the tour, students journeyed to the high school cafeteria where they enjoyed tasting some of the produce. They so enjoyed the visit. See pictures below.


The horticulture students from NHHS		gave the fourth graders a great tour.

Monthly Newsletters

2011-08-31T07:19:00.000-05:00

The New Hampton Elementary newsletter will be published the first of every month. The September newsletter is now on the elementary page of the district website. Copies of the newsletter will be sent home with students who do not have access to the Internet. Please read the newsletter each month for information and pictures regarding the happenings at New Hampton Elementary and also for announcements of things to come and things you should know.

First Days at New Hampton Elementary

2011-08-19T13:39:00.003-05:00

I was pleased and amazed at the ease in which we all dove into this school year. We had our share of ups and downs as we prepared for the arrival of our students, but for the most part, things have been fairly smooth. Hard work and enthusiasm pave the way for any venture and there was plenty of each on display throughout the month of August by all staff members.

We ran into a few glitches after school that were small and quick making sure that everyone was on the right bus and accounted for by staff and parents. I can't say that my heart doesn't begin to race when a child is not right just where they are supposed to be. I will never get over that! I am thankful for a seasoned, talent, and generous staff who work hard and take care of every detail in regard to preparing for that first day. If you are a parent of a student at New Hampton Elementary, your child is in good hands!

Mrs. Snyder leans down to welcome two of her new first grade students.

Carol Hovey reads to her third graders on the first day of the school year.

Giant Piggy Bank Student Bankers

2011-08-19T13:09:00.001-05:00


The fourth graders at New Hampton Elementary get to practice their leadership skills in a variety of ways. Those who have gone through the interview and application process as third graders are hired as student bankers for the Giant Piggy Bank. These students learn entrepreneurial skills using their customer service voices and demonstrating the Six Pillars of Character Counts. Pictured are the first and second quarter bankers after their training session with Mrs. Kennedy and Kathy Gruenberg of the Security State Bank.

Can't Wait for the Entourage of NHE Students

2011-08-16T09:51:00.000-05:00

The staff at New Hampton Elementary have been in and out of the building since the beginning of August preparing for the first day of school. The classrooms and hallways are clean and shiny and just waiting for the footprints of our students. Teachers are scurrying around with both excitement for that first day and a bit of anxiety hoping they have completed all of those 'getting ready' tasks.

One thing we all know for sure is that every year New Hampton Elementary attracts the best students in the state of Iowa. Somehow the best kids around always find their way through our school doors every year. We can just count on it.

We are ready!

New Hampton Elementary is the Place for Me

2011-05-24T16:55:00.000-05:00

These children walk through the doors for the last time as kindergarteners.

The last day of school hurried by as children completed their final projects and

then packed up their backpacks and walked into the summertime. They left with

smiles and high hopes for some good times with their families. My message to

each of them early this morning was to take care of themselves. This included

doing a little reading, writing, and math each day to complete their summer reading

initiative and ward off that summer slide of skills. It included getting plenty of

exercise and eating healthfully. It also included making good choices, like doing

what Mom and Dad say each day....without whining or grumbling. I reminded them

in song that New Hampton Elementary is the Place for Me and we will be waiting for

their return in the fall.!

The Gift That Keeps on Giving

2011-05-24T16:44:00.000-05:00

Ms Duneman thanks Carlee and Connor Rochford.

Joel and Andrea Rochford recently hosted a birthday party for Carlee

and Connor. Instead of asking for birthday gifts, the two Rochford children

asked their guests to bring children's books. The Rochford family

brought the books in to the media center on the last day of this school year

and presented them to Suzanne Duneman, teacher librarian. Many children

will enjoy these books for years to come.

Joel and Andrea Rochford share a happy moment with Carlee and Connor
in the media center.

2011-12 NHE School Snacks Policy Change

2011-05-11T16:39:00.000-05:00

The NHE policy for bringing treats for birthdays or scheduled parties has changed beginning in August of the 2011-12 school year. We are asking that all treats be pre-packaged so that we may see the ingredients listed. This is to ensure that if we have a student with food allergies we are being diligent about their nutritional needs. The policy in the student handbook is as follows: If students wish to bring treats for birthdays or scheduled parties, you are asked to choose healthy snacks in order to promote student wellness. All treats must be pre-packaged with the ingredient list on it so that staff may review it due to allergy concerns.

Here are some suggested snacks that you could purchase pre-packaged that would have the ingredients listed:

Raw vegetables with low-fat dressing or yogurt dip

Fresh fruit

100% fruit juices

Tray of cheese

Dried fruit, such as raisins, banana chips, etc.

Trail mix

Granola bars

Jello cups or squares

Low-fat pudding cups

Yogurt cups and Yoplait Go-Gurt

Air-popped popcorn

Low-fat muffins, mini muffins

Angel food cake

Low-fat crackers, such as animal crackers, graham crackers, goldfish, Cheezits, etc.

Baked chips

Low-fat string cheese

Pretzels

Beef jerky

Fruit Roll-ups and fruit snacks
Pepperidge Farms 100% whole wheat mini bagels
100 calorie packs
Nutrigrain bars
Flavored applesauce cups
Fruit cups
Rice cakes
Beef sticks
Mini muffins
Chex mix
Dry cereal
Graham cracker sticks to dip in yogurt cups
Cubed cheese in individual packs

Snacks can be individually packaged from the store or they can send an unopened box or bag of crackers, cereal, etc and it can be divided out at school into individual servings.

Other treats and prizes that could be brought instead of food:

Pencils

Erasers

Stickers

Bookmarks

Snacks at School

Snacks served during the school day will make a positive contribution to children’s diets and health, with an emphasis on serving fruits and vegetables as the primary snacks and healthy beverages conforming to this policy. The staff of New Hampton Elementary will assess if and when to offer snacks based on timing of meals, children’s nutritional needs, children’s ages and other considerations.

Dear Parents: Bike Helmet Giveaway

2011-05-09T17:01:00.000-05:00

Dear Parents: Summer time will soon be here and school will soon be out for the summer. Having that in mind it is our hope and wish that as parents you will help encourage our child to be safe while riding their bicycles this summer.

The New Hampton Police Department, New Hampton Parks and Recreation Department along with a very generous contribution from Jeremy McGrath and the Chickasaw Ambulance Service gave each first grade student a new bike helmet with the sincere hope that you as parents encourage your child to wear their helmets every time they ride.

Thank you, Jeremy McGrath!!

Mrs. Kennedy

Hats Off to Citizenship Day

2011-05-09T16:53:00.000-05:00

Third graders and Mrs. Hovey entertained everyone with their hats on Citizenship Day.

Wellness Luncheon

2011-05-09T16:50:00.000-05:00

Thanks to grants received from the economic development, Food and Fitness and the Iowa Department of Public Healthy, NHCSD had a free wellness lunch served to every student in the district on Monday, May 9th. The menu consisted of a whole grain pita with pulled chicken and grated cheese, lettuce salad, fresh fruit, and orange sherbet. The students really enjoyed the lunch!

Go the Distance Day - Character Counts Week

2011-05-09T11:55:00.000-05:00

In honor of the pillar caring, students wrote about a person of character in their life. Their paragraphs with photos are hanging in the hallways of NHE and are so touching to read. Students chose their siblings, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends to write about. They wore that person's name on their shirts as they 'walked the distance' on Friday, May 6th.

Here are some pictures of our students as they walked the distance.