Welcome Back - August 2024

I want to take a minute to introduce myself. My name is Jennie Ritter. I am the new principal of Knickrehm Elementary School. I am so excited to be joining this wonderful team of students, parents, and staff. I look forward to getting to know each of you better.

I am married and a step-mom/foster-mom of 4 children. My husband is the Chief Operating Officer for a company named Trinity Stainless. He is an amazing man. Our two oldest children are grown and out of the home. Marissa is a medic in the National Guard. Landon is working on his mechanical engineering degree at MSU. We have a 10-year-old foster son and a 10-month-old foster son. We love them dearly.

We enjoy football, camping, taking walks, boating, grilling, renovating homes, and entertaining.

I was a district administrator in Missouri before moving back to Nebraska. I enjoyed it, but I missed working with children. I was the principal at Seedling Mile Elementary School last year. I also taught at Starr Elementary School many years ago before moving to Missouri. My dad grew up in Grand Island, NE. It has always held a special place in my heart.

I look forward to the upcoming school year. Please know that I am here for any needs that you have. Always feel comfortable reaching out to me. I am willing to help in any capacity that you need.

• August 14th - Kindergarten 1st Day - 2 p.m. Dismissal
• August 15th - All Grades Are Back In School - 2 p.m. Dismissal
• August 16th - Kindergarten NO SCHOOL - Grades 1-5 School with a 3:05 p.m. Dismissal
• Kindergarten Meet the Teacher from 3:15 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

These items are recommended for purchase by parents/guardians. These supplies are not a requirement to attend school. Schools can provide individual classroom "wish lists" if patrons would like to donate supplies.

Complete supply list

GIPS attire guidelines exist to recognize that our schools and community partners require a more respectful attire than what is sometimes worn on social media and in the community outside of GIPS. Respectful guidelines include but are not limited to:

• All students must be covered from mid-thigh to top of chest in clothing that covers all undergarments
• Items that cover the head, neck, or face are not permitted - other than district required mask, approved religious attire, or protective hair coverings specific to policy 8455
• For grades 6-12, school issued ID must be made visible on the upper torso

All students, parents, and staff are responsible for implementation of the attire guidelines in GIPS. Students violating the attire guidelines will be asked to change their clothing before continuing in school.

We are happy to share that Knickrehm will continue to offer free breakfast and lunch to all of our students for the upcoming school year.

If your child brings their own lunch and would like to purchase a milk separately, the cost is $.50.